Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With juicy, marinated steak that is seared to perfection, these tacos are bursting with flavor. Served in warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime, they offer an authentic taste of Mexico. Customize them with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Marinating the steak takes minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
• Authentic Taste: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a genuine Mexican street taco experience.
• Customizable Options: Add your favorite toppings like salsa or guacamole to make each taco unique.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for taco nights, parties, or even a simple family meal.
• Easy Cooking Method: A hot skillet makes it simple to achieve the perfect sear on the steak.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, having the right tools will make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Ensures even heat distribution for a perfect sear on the steak.
• Resealable bag: Makes marinating easy and mess-free, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps combine marinade ingredients thoroughly for an even coating on the steak.

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

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 and seal it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat your cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. This step is crucial as it ensures you get a great sear on your carne asada.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from its marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Place the steak in your hot skillet. Cook it for 3-5 minutes per side based on thickness and desired doneness—medium-rare should reach about 130°F internally.

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steak onto a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute within the meat. Slice thinly against the grain to enhance tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While your steak rests, warm up corn tortillas in either the same skillet or another dry skillet over medium heat. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Take each warm tortilla and fill it with sliced carne asada. Top with diced onions and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime over each taco before adding any other desired toppings like salsa or guacamole.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side alongside any extra toppings you prefer!

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Serving Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and creating a vibrant meal experience. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your taco night.

Fresh Sides

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty kick.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices pairs wonderfully with the richness of carne asada.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a hearty element that complements the tacos perfectly.

Flavorful Toppings

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime, garlic, and salt for a rich topping that balances the spice.
• Salsa Verde: A tangy green salsa made from tomatillos that provides a refreshing contrast to the meat.
• Pickled Red Onions: Sweet and tangy pickled onions offer a delightful crunch and acidity.

Drinks

• Mexican Beer: Light lagers or ales enhance the flavors of the tacos while keeping it refreshing.
• Horchata: This sweet rice milk drink adds a creamy touch that complements spicy tacos beautifully.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To achieve the perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, focus on quality ingredients and technique. Here are some essential tips to ensure your tacos are a hit.

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the steak marinate for at least 2 hours helps infuse it with bold flavors from the spices.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat develops a nice sear on the meat while keeping it juicy inside.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the steak to rest post-cooking ensures maximum juiciness before slicing.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes each bite tender and easier to chew.
• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warm tortillas in a hot skillet until pliable for an authentic texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like jalapeños or cotija cheese for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a sweet-spicy treat.
2. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for an easy appetizer or side dish.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and fresh cilantro adds brightness to your plate.
4. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and complement the flavors of carne asada nicely.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until charred enhances both flavor and nutrition.
6. Avocado Salad: A light salad featuring avocado, tomato, onion, and lime dressing offers a refreshing side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Marinating the steak for just a short time can lead to less flavor. Aim for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight, for the best results.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach medium-rare (about 130°F).
• Skipping the Resting Period: Slicing immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin the texture of your tacos. Always warm them in a skillet for better flavor and pliability.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality toppings can detract from your tacos. Always opt for fresh cilantro, onions, and lime for authentic taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Warm individually in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos spicy?

You can add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce as toppings to give your tacos an extra kick.

What kind of meat is best for Carne Asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak works best due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

Can I prepare Carne Asada ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the meat a day in advance and cook it right before serving.

What toppings go well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, and cotija cheese complement these tacos perfectly.

How do I ensure my tortillas don’t tear?

Warm them gently before filling; this will make them more pliable and less likely to tear when you fold them.

Final Thoughts

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not just delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings like avocado or different salsas. They’re perfect for taco night or any casual gathering. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an authentic taste of Mexico right at home!