Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are a must-try for any taco lover! Perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal, these tacos feature juicy marinated steak that’s seared to perfection. Wrapped in warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro and onions, they provide an authentic taste of Mexico that’s sure to impress your guests.

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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
• Sauces and Salsas
• Additional Garnishes
• 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
• What is Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• How do I make my Carne Asada more flavorful?
• Can I use other cuts of meat?
• What toppings go well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• Are there vegetarian options for these tacos?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The marinade infuses the steak with robust flavors, making every bite delicious.
• Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you can have restaurant-quality tacos ready in no time.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like salsa or guacamole to personalize your tacos.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for taco night, game day, or even casual gatherings with friends.
• Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients, these tacos are a wholesome choice for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
• Mixing bowl
• Resealable bag or shallow dish
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention for perfect searing of the steak.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely slicing the rested steak without damaging your countertops.

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 (overnight is best).

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat your large cast-iron skillet over high heat until it is very hot. This step ensures that you get a nice 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 on each side based on thickness and desired doneness. Aim for medium-rare with an internal temperature of around 130°F.

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steak to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute. After resting, slice thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While your steak rests, warm up each tortilla in either the same skillet or another dry pan over medium heat 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. Squeeze fresh lime juice over them before adding optional toppings like salsa or guacamole as desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately alongside lime wedges and any additional toppings of your choice. Enjoy these delightful 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 a vibrant experience. These tacos can be customized with various toppings and sides to suit any taste preference.

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the grilled meat.
• Diced Onions: Provides a crunchy texture and sharp flavor, balancing the richness of the carne asada.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime enhances the overall taste, adding brightness to each bite.

Sauces and Salsas

• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs perfectly with the savory steak.
• Salsa Verde: This tangy salsa adds a zesty kick that elevates the taco experience.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, a few drops of your favorite hot sauce can bring extra spice.

Additional Garnishes

• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija adds a salty, creamy element that enhances flavor.
• Jalapeño Slices: Fresh or pickled jalapeños provide an extra layer of heat for spice lovers.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Making the perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos involves attention to detail in both marination and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos are delicious.

• Bold Marinade: Use a well-balanced marinade with lime juice, garlic, and spices to infuse maximum flavor into the steak.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook the steak on high heat for a proper sear; this locks in juices and flavor while creating a nice crust.
• Resting Time: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
• Warm Tortillas: Always warm your tortillas before serving for better texture and enhanced flavor.
• Customize Freely: Feel free to add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch that suits your taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

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

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a great base alongside tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness that pairs well with carne asada.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob coated in cheese, lime, and chili powder offers sweet and savory flavors.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a satisfying crunch before or alongside tacos.
5. Guacamole Salad: A light salad featuring avocado, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds freshness to your meal.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and grilled add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the right techniques is crucial for making perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos. Here are some common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the steak can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to marinate your meat for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better results.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Aim for medium-rare and use a meat thermometer to achieve about 130°F internal temperature.
• Not Letting the Steak Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking will release juices, leading to dryness. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the eating experience. Always warm them before filling to enhance flavor and texture.
• Ignoring Toppings: Overlooking toppings can make tacos less exciting. Get creative with fresh ingredients like salsa, guacamole, and jalapeños for added flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover carne asada in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep tortillas separate from fillings to maintain freshness.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Wrap cooked carne asada tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It lasts up to 3 months.
• Freeze tortillas separately; they can be stored in a zip-top bag.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place carne asada on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place carne asada on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary, until heated throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are made with marinated grilled steak served in corn tortillas, topped with fresh ingredients like onions and cilantro.

How do I make my Carne Asada more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like smoked paprika or using fresh herbs in your marinade. Marinating overnight significantly enhances flavor.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! While flank or skirt steak is traditional, you can experiment with other cuts like sirloin or ribeye for different flavors and textures.

What toppings go well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Top your tacos with diced onions, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, or even cotija cheese for extra flavor.

Are there vegetarian options for these tacos?

Absolutely! You can substitute the carne asada with grilled vegetables or beans for a delicious vegetarian version of street tacos.

Final Thoughts

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to please any crowd. They are versatile—you can customize them with various toppings according to your taste preferences. Try them out at your next taco night!