AFL Season Returns with Taco Thursday as New Game-Day Tradition
The Australian Football League season is back in full swing, and fans across the country are celebrating with a delicious new culinary trend: Taco Thursday. This emerging tradition offers the perfect family-friendly feast for game-day gatherings, combining easy-to-make handheld food with the excitement of footy action.
Chef Shares Expert Recipes for Footy Fans
Michael Weldon from Cooking with Coles appeared on Sunrise on Thursday to showcase his specially designed Mexican-inspired recipes. These dishes are tailored for AFL enthusiasts who want convenient, mess-free food while watching the game, ensuring everyone can enjoy the match without missing a moment.
Complete Taco Thursday Menu
The recipes feature two main taco options along with essential accompaniments:
Beef Mince Tacos
- 500g 3-star beef mince
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
Grilled Chipotle Chicken Tacos
- 600g Coles Chicken Stir Fry Strips
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil
Essential Toppings and Sides
The complete spread includes:
- Guacamole: 4 avocados, 1 garlic clove grated finely, 2 limes, sea salt
- Pineapple Salsa: ½ pineapple diced, 1 small red onion diced, 1 cucumber diced, 1 red chilli diced, 1 tablespoon olive oil, sea salt
- Pico De Gallo: 2 tomatoes diced, 1 small white onion diced, 1 jalapeno diced, ¼ bunch coriander chopped finely, 1 lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, sea salt
- Lime Crema: ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup mayo, 1 lime juice, 1 teaspoon green hot sauce (optional)
Garnishes and Serving Essentials
- Coles Pineapple salsa
- Coles creamy salsa Verde
- Pickled jalapenos
- ½ white cabbage, shaved and served in bowl
- 12 flour tortillas, heated following packet instructions
- 12 hard shell tortillas, heated following packet instructions
- 2 limes, cut into 8 pieces
- Hot sauce
Preparation Method
Step 1: Combine the chipotle chicken marinade in a bowl. Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 12 hours for optimal flavor.
Step 2: In a large frypan, cook the onion in olive oil until browned. Add the mince and brown it thoroughly. Incorporate the spices and toast them briefly. Add ½ cup of water and cook until tender. Keep hot for serving.
Step 3: Heat a griddle pan or BBQ. Cook the chicken strips until charred on both sides and fully cooked through. Keep warm for serving.
Step 4: In a bowl, mash the avocados until smooth. Add garlic and lime, then season with sea salt to taste. Additional ingredients can be incorporated at this stage. Serve in a sharing bowl.
Step 5: Combine the Pico de Gallo ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Season with salt to taste. Serve in a sharing bowl.
Step 6: Mix the pineapple salsa ingredients in a bowl. Season with salt to taste. Serve in a sharing bowl.
Step 7: Combine the crema ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Season with salt to taste. Serve in a small bowl.
Step 8: Arrange all taco ingredients in a sharing-style presentation. Allow diners to build their own tacos, then enjoy in front of the footy broadcast.
This Taco Thursday concept provides an engaging, interactive dining experience that enhances the AFL viewing tradition, making game nights more festive and memorable for families and friends alike.
