This guide provides a step-by-step recipe for Authentic Mexican Street Tacos.
You will find a clear list of ingredients and simple cooking instructions.
This recipe delivers traditional flavors with fresh ingredients and simple techniques.
What is an Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe?
Authentic Mexican Street Tacos are small corn tortillas filled with seasoned meat, fresh toppings, and flavorful sauces. They are common in Mexican cuisine and are often sold by street vendors. These tacos use simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods. They have a bold taste with a balance of spices, fresh herbs, and lime juice.
Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
- 1 lb beef (skirt steak or flank steak)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges for serving
Directions for Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Marinate the meat.
Place the beef in the marinade and coat it well. Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the meat.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes per side until it reaches the desired doneness.
Step 4: Rest and slice.
Remove the beef from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice it into thin strips.
Step 5: Warm the tortillas.
Heat the corn tortillas on a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
Step 6: Assemble the tacos.
Place the sliced beef on the tortillas. Add chopped onion, cilantro, salsa, and crumbled queso fresco.
Step 7: Serve.
Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
Use fresh corn tortillas for the best texture.
If possible, grill the meat for a smoky flavor. Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste.
Slice the meat thinly to ensure each bite is tender. Warm the tortillas properly to prevent breaking. Serve tacos immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe Variations
- Use chicken instead of beef.
- Add grilled shrimp for a seafood version.
- Use pork seasoned with achiote paste.
- Substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas.
- Top with avocado slices.
Things That I Can Serve with Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled vegetables
- Chips and guacamole
- Spicy pickled carrots
Topping Options for Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
Top tacos with fresh salsa, sliced radishes, pickled onions, cotija cheese, or avocado crema.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
| Storage Method | Instructions | Duration | Reheating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store cooked meat in an airtight container. Keep toppings separate. | 3 days | Reheat meat in a skillet over medium heat. |
| Freezing | Freeze cooked meat in a sealed container. Do not freeze tortillas with toppings. | 2 months | Thaw meat in the fridge, then reheat in a pan. |
| Short-Term | Keep tacos wrapped in foil at room temperature if serving within 1 hour. | 1 hour | Warm tortillas on a skillet before serving. |
Ways to Make Authentic Mexican Street Tacos Recipe
- Grilling
- Skillet cooking
- Slow cooker method
- Air fryer method
FAQ
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
A: Yes, but corn tortillas are traditional and offer an authentic taste.
Q: How long should I marinate the meat?
A: At least 30 minutes, but longer marination enhances the flavor.
Q: What type of beef works best?
A: Skirt steak and flank steak are the best choices.
Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the meat and toppings in advance, but assemble the tacos just before serving.
Q: Are street tacos spicy?
A: The spice level depends on the seasoning and toppings used. Adjust ingredients based on preference.
Conclusion
Authentic Mexican Street Tacos are easy to prepare and full of flavor.
This recipe provides simple steps and fresh ingredients to make a traditional dish at home.
Enjoy these tacos with your favorite toppings and sides.
Authentic Mexican Street Tacos
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or griddle1
- 1 Mixing bowls
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Serving Platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef skirt steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
- 2 limes cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Add the beef skirt steak and ensure it’s fully coated in the marinade. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become slightly pliable and develop a few charred spots, about 30 seconds per side.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until desired doneness (about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Tacos: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Divide the beef among the warmed tortillas. Top with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and a lime wedge.
- Serve: Serve immediately with additional lime wedges on the side.
Notes
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Beef Substitute: For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with marinated portobello mushrooms or grilled panela cheese.
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Tortilla Tip: Authentic Mexican street tacos use corn tortillas rather than flour tortillas for the best traditional flavor and texture.
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Marinade Variation: For extra flavor, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.
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Serving Suggestion: Serve with additional toppings like salsa, pickled onions, or crema if desired.
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Meal Prep: The marinated beef can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
