1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced small
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 tablespoon ground cumin (toast first before grinding)
1/2 tablespoon onion powder
1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
1/2 tablespoon salt
1 1/4 cup ground beef
1/4 cup tomato salsa
1 cup refried beans
Oil for deep frying
16 yellow corn tortillas (5-6 inches)
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 cup cheddar cheese or 16 slices
1 cup taco sauce (your favorite)

2 Add the onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes.

3 Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

4.Turn the heat to medium-high, add the meat and sauté for 6-7 minutes.

5. Add the remaining ingredients( down to the oil), mix well and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes over medium heat.

6. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside to cool.

7. Assembly: Place about 2 ounces of filling in the center of each tortilla.

8. Fold over and slightly press down to spread and flatten the filling.

9. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour until they are hard.

10. In a large pot, place enough oil to deep fry the tacos for about 3 minutes at 350 degrees (working in batches of 3-4 at a time).

11. Carefully remove the tacos from the oil, so as not to break them.

12. Fill with 1 tablespoon taco sauce, 1 tablespoon cheese and 2 tablespoons lettuce.