Go Back

Authentic Mexican Street Tacos

These authentic Mexican street tacos feature tender, flavorful carne asada (marinated beef) cooked to perfection and served in soft corn tortillas. Topped with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos capture the essence of street food in Mexico with their perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8 Tacos
Calories 280 kcal

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

  • Beef Substitute: For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with marinated portobello mushrooms or grilled panela cheese.
  • Tortilla Tip: Authentic Mexican street tacos use corn tortillas rather than flour tortillas for the best traditional flavor and texture.
  • Marinade Variation: For extra flavor, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve with additional toppings like salsa, pickled onions, or crema if desired.
  • Meal Prep: The marinated beef can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Keyword Tacos, Mexican, Street Food