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Pumpkin Spiced Halloween Tacos

These crispy-topped tacos feature a savory pumpkin filling seasoned with warm spices, combining comforting flavors with a playful presentation. The dish involves sautéing pumpkin and onions, warming tortillas, and assembling with cheese, herbs, and a smoky sauce for a festive and textured bite. The final tacos are crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, topped with fresh garnishes for a vibrant, spooky look.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup diced pumpkin fresh or canned, avoid pie filling
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • a pinch cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 4 corn tortillas warm for assembly
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta
  • 1 lime lime for juice and garnish
  • 2 tablespoons smoked chipotle sauce or hot sauce
  • a handful chopped cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Lime squeezer

Method
 

  1. Warm a skillet over medium heat and toast the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they develop a few light charred spots. Set aside.
  2. Add a splash of oil to the skillet and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the diced pumpkin, cooking until it softens and releases a sweet aroma, about 8 minutes.
  4. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne, stirring well to coat the pumpkin mixture, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the pumpkin mixture into a bowl for assembly.
  6. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the pumpkin filling to brighten the flavors.
  7. Fill each warm tortilla with the pumpkin mixture, then sprinkle with crumbled cheese.
  8. Drizzle the smoky chipotle sauce over the filled tacos for a spicy, haunting touch.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime to finish.
  10. Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy shell contrasted with the tender, flavorful pumpkin filling.

Notes

Ensure tortillas are warm to achieve the perfect crispy exterior. Adjust spice levels to taste for milder or bolder flavors. For a vegetarian option, skip the optional protein addition.