Mexican Street Tacos Carne Asada 🌮🔥
Bring the authentic flavors of a Mexican street food stand into your home with these Mexican Street Tacos Carne Asada! Juicy, tender carne asada paired with simple toppings makes these tacos a true classic. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: A citrusy, garlic-infused marinade makes the steak rich, savory, and tangy.
- Simple Yet Authentic: True to its roots, these tacos stick to the basics with onion, cilantro, and lime.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Ingredients
For the Carne Asada:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- Small corn tortillas (about 12)
- ½ cup white onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Salsa of choice (salsa verde, roja, or your favorite)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, white vinegar, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.
Step 2: Grill the Carne Asada
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the steak for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness.
- Once done, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Slice the Steak
- Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas directly on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
- Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Place a few slices of carne asada onto each tortilla.
- Top with finely chopped onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Add a drizzle of salsa verde or roja, or your favorite salsa for a spicy kick.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these flavorful tacos with extra lime wedges and salsa on the side for a complete street taco experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tacos
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lime and orange juice elevate the flavor of the marinade.
- Marinate Overnight: Letting the steak soak longer enhances the boldness of the flavors.
- Keep It Simple: Stick to traditional toppings like onion, cilantro, and lime for authentic street taco vibes.
- Grill for Authenticity: Cooking over an open flame adds a smoky, charred flavor to the carne asada.
Perfect Pairings
- Sides: Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or elote (Mexican street corn).
- Drinks: Pair with a refreshing margarita, horchata, or a chilled Mexican lager.
- Extras: Offer a variety of salsas and toppings for a build-your-own taco bar.
Why These Tacos Are a Classic
The beauty of Mexican Street Tacos Carne Asada lies in their simplicity. The marinade infuses the steak with bold citrus and spice flavors, while the fresh toppings keep the tacos light and vibrant. Each bite is a perfect combination of smoky, savory, and zesty goodness.
Ready to bring the taste of Mexico to your kitchen? These tacos are sure to impress family, friends, and taco lovers alike. ¡Buen provecho! 🌟