Introduction
There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of carne asada sizzling on the grill, isn’t there? It’s like an invitation to gather around the table and celebrate flavors that transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Carne asada street style tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of comfort food that brings everyone together.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet utterly satisfying, or for a weekend get-together with friends and family. The marinated beef is grilled to perfection, chopped, and tucked into warm corn tortillas, ready to be topped with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and your favorite salsa. Trust me, once you make these tacos, they’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation.
I remember the first time I tried street tacos. I was visiting a food festival, and the smell of grilled meat drew me in. I took my first bite, and it felt like a burst of flavor that just made my heart sing. I couldn’t help but smile as I savored the juicy carne asada and all those toppings. Now, I recreate that moment in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
you’re going to love this Carne Asada Street Style Tacos for so many reason! Here are just a few that make them a must try:
- Easy to Make: The marinade is super simple, and you’ll only need a handful of ingredients to whip up the carne asada. Once marinated, it cooks quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
- Family-Friendly: These tacos are a hit with kids and adults alike! Everyone loves the chance to customize their tacos with toppings, making it a fun interactive meal.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of the marinated beef, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Each bite is tender, juicy, and packed with that authentic street taco taste.
- Versatile: You can easily customize these tacos to your liking. Want to add some spice? Throw in some jalapeños. Prefer a creamier texture? Add avocado or a drizzle of crema.
Picture this: the tender carne asada melts in your mouth, while the warm tortillas cradle the juicy beef, and the fresh toppings elevate every bite. It’s street food at its finest!
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 1 hour (including 30 minutes marinating time)
- Servings: This recipe serves about 4-6 people, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.
- Nutrition Facts:
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 30g
Ingredients
To make these delectable carne asada street style tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Carne Asada:
- 2 lbs flank steak: This cut is perfect for grilling; it’s tender and packed with flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup lime juice: Brightens up the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to keep the meat juicy while grilling.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a lovely aromatic quality to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a hint of spice and smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick.
Tacos:
- Corn tortillas (12): Freshly made tortillas add the authentic touch.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: A must-have for that fresh, herbal taste.
- Lime wedges: For squeezing on top of the tacos.
- Your favorite salsa: Choose a mild or spicy salsa based on your preference.
- Diced onions and jalapeños (optional): For extra crunch and heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make your very own Carne Asada Street Style Tacos from scratch:
1. Marinate the Steak
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, mix together soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper. This marinade is where all the magic happens, so make sure to mix it well!
- Add the Steak: Place the flank steak into the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).
2. Prepare the Grill
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the steak and get those lovely grill marks.
3. Grill the Steak
- Remove from Marinade: Take the steak out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the Steak: Place the flank steak on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness. The internal temperature should be around 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Rest the Steak
- Let It Rest: Once grilled, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making your carne asada tender and juicy.
5. Slice the Steak
- Slice Against the Grain: Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique keeps the meat tender and makes it easier to bite into when served in tacos.
6. Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the Tortillas: While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side or until they’re pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the Tacos
- Build Your Tacos: Take a warm tortilla and place a generous amount of sliced carne asada in the center. Top with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and jalapeños, if using. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and finish with your favorite salsa.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Ready to Eat: Serve the tacos warm, and enjoy them with friends and family!
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t worry if you’re new to grilling; just keep an eye on the steak to avoid overcooking.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
How to Serve
These carne asada street style tacos are delightful on their own, but you can enhance your meal by serving with some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Pair with Rice and Beans: Serve alongside Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with additional options like guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese so everyone can customize their tacos.
- Fresh Side Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with lime vinaigrette complements the richness of the tacos perfectly.
Additional Tips
To ensure your carne asada tacos turn out perfectly, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the steak overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve your desired doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking meat perfectly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more chili powder or even some chipotle peppers for an extra kick if you love spicy food.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of spicy crema can add a delicious twist.
- Make It Ahead: The carne asada can be grilled a day in advance. Just reheat it in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about carne asada tacos is their versatility. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Chicken Tacos: Swap out the flank steak for chicken thighs or breasts. Marinate them the same way and grill until fully cooked.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, replace the carne asada with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated cauliflower. They absorb flavors beautifully and make for a hearty taco.
- Fish Tacos: Use grilled white fish like tilapia or cod, seasoned with lime and spices, for a lighter alternative.
- Street Corn Topping: Top your tacos with a mixture of grilled corn, mayo, lime juice, and cotija cheese for a sweet and creamy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These tacos are delicious on their own, but why not elevate your meal with some complementary dishes and drinks?
- Side Dishes: Pair your tacos with roasted corn, black beans, or a zesty slaw for some crunch. A simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with lime can also refresh the palate.
- Drinks: For drinks, consider serving refreshing horchata or classic Mexican beers like Corona or Modelo. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a tall glass of agua fresca with fresh fruit is a perfect match.
- Dessert: Round off the meal with a sweet treat like churros or flan. These traditional desserts are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after indulging in savory tacos.
FAQ: Carne Asada Street Style Tacos
1. What cut of meat is best for carne asada?
The best cuts of meat for carne asada are flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin. Flank steak is a popular choice due to its rich flavor and tenderness when marinated and grilled correctly.
2. How long should I marinate the steak?
For optimal flavor, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, but you can let it marinate for up to 2 hours. If you have more time, marinating overnight will intensify the flavor even further.
3. Can I use a different type of tortilla?
While corn tortillas are traditional for street tacos, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas add a more authentic flavor and texture to your tacos.
4. What toppings do you recommend for carne asada tacos?
Classic toppings include chopped fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa. You can also add sliced avocado, jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor.
5. How do I know when the steak is cooked to my liking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F; for medium, go for 145°F. Remember to let the steak rest for about 10 minutes after grilling before slicing.
6. Can I make carne asada ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can grill the carne asada in advance and reheat it in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to assemble your tacos. Just be sure to slice it before reheating for even warming.
7. Are there vegetarian options for carne asada tacos?
Yes! You can substitute the carne asada with grilled portobello mushrooms, marinated cauliflower, or even tofu. Just use a similar marinade to infuse flavor.
8. How can I store leftover carne asada?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
9. What drinks pair well with carne asada tacos?
Refreshing beverages like horchata, Mexican beers (like Corona or Modelo), or a fruity agua fresca are great options. For a non-alcoholic choice, serve iced tea or lemonade.
10. Can I customize the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with the marinade by adding ingredients like orange juice, chipotle peppers, or fresh herbs for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to balance the acidity and spices to complement the meat.
PrintCarne Asada Street Style Tacos
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
To make these delectable carne asada street style tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Carne Asada:
- 2 lbs flank steak: This cut is perfect for grilling; it’s tender and packed with flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup lime juice: Brightens up the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to keep the meat juicy while grilling.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a lovely aromatic quality to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a hint of spice and smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick.
For the Tacos:
- Corn tortillas (12): Freshly made tortillas add the authentic touch.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: A must-have for that fresh, herbal taste.
- Lime wedges: For squeezing on top of the tacos.
- Your favorite salsa: Choose a mild or spicy salsa based on your preference.
- Diced onions and jalapeños (optional): For extra crunch and heat.
Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, mix together soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper. This marinade is where all the magic happens, so make sure to mix it well!
- Add the Steak: Place the flank steak into the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).
2. Prepare the Grill
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the steak and get those lovely grill marks.
3. Grill the Steak
- Remove from Marinade: Take the steak out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the Steak: Place the flank steak on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness. The internal temperature should be around 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Rest the Steak
- Let It Rest: Once grilled, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making your carne asada tender and juicy.
5. Slice the Steak
- Slice Against the Grain: Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique keeps the meat tender and makes it easier to bite into when served in tacos.
6. Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the Tortillas: While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side or until they’re pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the Tacos
- Build Your Tacos: Take a warm tortilla and place a generous amount of sliced carne asada in the center. Top with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and jalapeños, if using. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and finish with your favorite salsa.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Ready to Eat: Serve the tacos warm, and enjoy them with friends and family!
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t worry if you’re new to grilling; just keep an eye on the steak to avoid overcooking.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 350
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 22g
Conclusion
There you have it! Delicious carne asada street style tacos that you can easily make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate that street food experience in your own kitchen. The tenderness of the grilled carne asada, combined with fresh toppings and warm tortillas, creates a delightful fiesta of flavors in every bite.
So next time you’re craving something comforting yet exciting, whip up a batch of these tacos. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weeknight or sharing them with friends at a weekend gathering, these carne asada tacos are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
I hope you enjoy making these tacos as much as I do! Don’t forget to share your creations with me—I love seeing how you customize your dishes! Happy cooking!