Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for taco night or any festive gathering. With juicy, marinated steak seared to perfection and served in warm corn tortillas, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether for a casual dinner or a lively party, these tacos are sure to impress with their authentic taste and customizable toppings.

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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
• Fresh Ingredients
• Tasty Toppings
• Cheesy Goodness
• How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make authentic Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• Can I use other types of meat for these tacos?
• What toppings pair well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• Can I prepare the carne asada ahead of time?
• Are Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of cook time and simple ingredients, these tacos come together quickly.
• Flavor-Packed: The marinade infuses the steak with vibrant flavors, ensuring each bite is deliciously satisfying.
• Customizable Toppings: Enjoy them plain or topped with salsa, guacamole, or cotija cheese for added flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From family dinners to backyard barbecues, these tacos fit any event seamlessly.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Marinate the steak in advance for an even more flavorful meal when you’re ready to cook.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, having the right tools is essential. These tools make the cooking process smoother and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Retains heat well, providing a great sear on the steak.
• Resealable bag or shallow dish: Perfect for marinating the meat evenly.
• Whisk: Ensures all marinade ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor absorption.

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 and seal it tightly. 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 high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on your carne asada.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

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

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Transfer the cooked steak onto a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes; this allows juices to redistribute. After resting, slice thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While your steak is resting, warm up your tortillas in either the same skillet or a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until they are 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. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like salsa or guacamole if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy them fresh with all your chosen toppings!

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Serving Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is an opportunity to get creative with flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or enjoying a casual meal, these tacos can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.

Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the tacos for a burst of flavor.
• Onions: Diced onions add a crunchy texture and enhance the taco’s overall taste.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up all the flavors in each bite.

Tasty Toppings

• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa, whether it’s mild or spicy, for added zest.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole complements the savory carne asada perfectly.
• Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños bring an extra kick.

Cheesy Goodness

• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija cheese adds a salty and creamy element to your tacos.
• Queso Fresco: Alternatively, use queso fresco for a milder, yet delicious topping.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To achieve the ultimate Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, follow these essential tips. They will ensure each taco is bursting with flavor and texture.

• Marinate for Flavor: Let the steak sit in the marinade for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking the steak on high heat helps create a perfect sear while keeping it juicy inside.
• Rest the Meat: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking ensures that juices redistribute, making every bite tender.
• Slice Thinly: Always slice against the grain for more tender pieces that are easier to chew.
• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warm tortillas make them pliable and enhance their flavor—use a dry skillet for best results.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix and match toppings to find your perfect flavor combination!

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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. Here are some delicious options that complement these flavorful tacos.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice pairs well with tacos and absorbs all those tasty juices.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime and chili powder makes a great summer side.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking before your tacos arrive.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This cheesy, spicy corn dish is a crowd-pleaser that enhances any taco night.
6. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad loaded with black beans, corn, and avocado adds color and nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos experience. Here are some key errors to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating the steak long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight for the best taste.
• Underestimating Heat: Cooking the steak at low temperatures can prevent a good sear. Always preheat your pan until it’s very hot before cooking.
• Slicing Against the Grain: Slicing the steak with the grain makes it tough. Always cut against the grain for tender slices.
• Overstuffing Tacos: Filling your tacos too much can make them hard to handle. Keep toppings moderate for easier eating and better flavor balance.
• Warming Tortillas Incorrectly: Cold tortillas can break easily. Warm them in a skillet until they’re soft and pliable before assembling your tacos.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Carne Asada Mexican Street 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, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and 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 for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 1-2 minutes per side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make authentic Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

To create authentic Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, use flank or skirt steak, marinate it well, and cook it quickly over high heat.

Can I use other types of meat for these tacos?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you can also use chicken or pork as alternatives for your street tacos.

What toppings pair well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, and cotija cheese are great topping choices that enhance flavors.

Can I prepare the carne asada ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and cook it just before serving for fresh-tasting tacos.

Are Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos gluten-free?

Yes! When using corn tortillas, these tacos are naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun taco night with friends, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at your table!

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