Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are the ultimate taco night favorite! With juicy, marinated steak seared to perfection and served in warm corn tortillas, they offer a burst of authentic flavors that suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these tacos stand out with their fresh ingredients and delicious toppings like salsa and guacamole.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Carne Asada:
• For the Tacos:
• For the Optional Salsa:
• How to Make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Step 1: Marinate the Steak
• Step 2: Preheat the Pan
• Step 3: Cook the Steak
• Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak
• Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
• Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Classic Toppings
• Salsas and Sauces
• Additional Fillings
• How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make carne asada more flavorful?
• Can I use other meats for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• What toppings go well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• How do I choose the right cut of beef?
• Can I grill carne asada instead of using a skillet?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the steak with vibrant flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes of total time, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Customizable Toppings: Tailor your tacos with your favorite additions, allowing everyone to create their perfect bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for taco nights, parties, or as a fun family dinner.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, these tacos are as nutritious as they are tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather all essential tools and equipment to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
• Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for a perfect sear on the carne asada.
• Resealable plastic bag: Makes marinating the steak easy and mess-free.
• Whisk: Ensures all marinade ingredients blend together smoothly for maximum flavor.

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 a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until very hot. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on your steak.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade. Let any excess marinade drip off before placing it in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side depending on thickness and desired doneness. Aim for medium-rare (about 130°F internal temperature).

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Transfer cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute. Thinly slice against the grain for optimal tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While your steak rests, warm tortillas in the same skillet or in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

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

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Serving Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is all about enhancing the flavors and creating an inviting atmosphere. Here are some delicious ways to present these tasty tacos that will impress your family and friends.

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory steak.
• Diced Onions: Provides a crunchy texture and sharp flavor that elevates the taco experience.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brings brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and smoothness to each bite.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love a spicy kick, a few drops can elevate the flavor profile.

Additional Fillings

• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cheese that adds a salty flavor and creamy texture.
• Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, they provide heat for those who enjoy spicy food.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To make sure your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are truly unforgettable, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness significantly.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures a perfect sear, locking in juices while creating a delicious crust.
• Rest the Meat: Letting the cooked steak rest allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain ensures each piece is tender and easy to chew.
• Warm Tortillas Properly: Heating tortillas makes them pliable and helps prevent tearing when filling them with carne asada.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions that complement these tacos perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices provides a hearty base for your meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and fiber while balancing out the flavors on your plate.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection with butter and chili powder offers a delightful crunch.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an excellent appetizer or snack.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime creates a flavorful treat.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing slaw with lime dressing adds crunch and acidity to lighten up your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, a few common errors can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Failing to marinate the steak for at least 2 hours can result in less flavorful meat. For best results, let it marinate overnight.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak beyond medium-rare can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for about 130°F.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Cutting into the steak right away can cause juices to escape, leading to a less juicy taco. Always let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can break easily and won’t complement the warm filling. Warm them just before serving to keep them pliable.
• Ignoring Texture When Slicing: Slicing against the grain is key for tender bites. Make sure to cut thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Keep leftover Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos in an airtight container.
• item Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• item Wrap individual tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• item Place wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and wrap tacos in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 1 minute per side until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make carne asada more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider marinating the steak longer or adding spices like oregano and lime zest. Fresh herbs also add brightness.

Can I use other meats for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Yes! While flank or skirt steak is traditional, you can substitute with chicken or pork if desired.

What toppings go well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Popular toppings include fresh cilantro, diced onions, guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, and crumbled cotija cheese for added flavor and texture.

How do I choose the right cut of beef?

Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. Look for well-marbled cuts for juiciness.

Can I grill carne asada instead of using a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just ensure your grill is preheated before placing the meat on it.

Final Thoughts

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s taco night or a special occasion, these tacos will impress everyone at your table!

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