Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are a must-try for taco lovers! With juicy, marinated steak, these tacos are perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes these tacos stand out, allowing you to customize them with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Mexico right in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade infuses the steak with zesty lime and herbs, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can easily whip up these tacos any day of the week.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your tacos with a variety of toppings, from creamy guacamole to spicy salsa.
• Perfect for Sharing: These street tacos are great for gatherings and can be served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine that transports you straight to the streets of Mexico.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Resealable bag or shallow dish
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Retains heat well, providing an excellent sear on the steak.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients for the marinade without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for slicing the rested steak safely.

Ingredients

For the Carne Asada:

• 1 ½ lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For the Tacos:

• 12 small corn tortillas
• ½ cup diced white onion (or red onion for a stronger flavor)
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Crumbled cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Optional toppings: Salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, or hot sauce

For the Optional Salsa:

• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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How to Make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat your cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until it is very hot. This step is crucial as it ensures a perfect sear on your carne asada.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and let any extra marinade drip off. Place it in your hot skillet. Cook each side for about 3-5 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness. Aim for medium-rare at around 130°F internal temperature.

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Transfer your cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute. After resting time is up, slice thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While waiting for your steak to rest, warm up your tortillas in either the same skillet or a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat each side for about 30 seconds until they are pliable with slight char marks.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each warm tortilla with sliced carne asada. Top with diced onions and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Add any optional toppings like salsa or guacamole as desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side along with additional toppings of your choice. Enjoy your delicious Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos!

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your taco experience.

Traditional Toppings

• Chopped Onions: Diced white or red onions add a fresh crunch and flavor balance.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness that complements the meat.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime enhances the flavors and adds brightness to each bite.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro is a classic choice.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the savory carne asada.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like some heat, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the dish.

Cheese Options

• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija cheese provides a salty kick that enhances the tacos perfectly.
• Queso Fresco: This mild cheese adds creaminess without overwhelming the other flavors.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Perfecting your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Use High Heat: Cooking the steak over high heat ensures a beautiful sear while keeping it juicy inside.
• Let it Rest: Resting the cooked steak for 5-10 minutes before slicing locks in juices for optimal tenderness.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes the meat easier to chew, enhancing texture.
• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warm tortillas in a pan until they are pliable, ensuring they hold all your delicious toppings without tearing.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings like jalapeños or pickled onions for unique flavor profiles.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos can elevate your meal. These options complement the rich flavors of the tacos perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices complements tacos and balances their richness.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and texture, making them a hearty side choice.
3. Corn Elote (Street Corn): Grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder offers a delightful contrast.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an easy appetizer or side dish.
5. Black Bean Salad: A zesty salad of black beans, corn, and lime dressing offers refreshing crunch and flavor.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing its overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, a few common mistakes can hinder your taco experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marinade or not allowing enough time for it can lead to bland meat. Aim for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking steak too long can make it tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer and aim for medium-rare at about 130°F.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting into the steak right after cooking releases juices, making it less tender. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them in a skillet or wrap them in a clean towel before serving.
• Neglecting to Slice Against the Grain: Slicing with the grain results in chewy pieces of meat. Always cut against the grain for tender slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover carne asada tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Wrap tacos in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm tacos for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos spicier?

You can add more jalapeños or hot sauce to your toppings. For extra heat, marinate with spicy chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes.

What is the best cut of beef for Carne Asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak works best due to their tenderness and flavor when grilled. They absorb marinades well and cook quickly.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer, but traditional Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are typically served with corn tortillas for an authentic taste.

How should I store leftovers of Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not just delicious; they’re also versatile! Customize them with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, or cotija cheese to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s taco night or just a quick meal, these tacos will surely impress!

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