Mexican Street Tacos are a tasty treat filled with juicy meat, fresh toppings, and zesty flavors. They’re perfect for a quick bite or a fun dinner!
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of these tacos sizzling on the grill. I like to pile on the onions and cilantro—yum! 🌮 Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can make these at home?
Making them is super easy: just cook the meat, warm the tortillas, and add your favorite toppings. You’ll be craving these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carne Asada or Pork Shoulder: Both options work well. Carne asada brings a nice beefy flavor, while pork shoulder is juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could also use grilled chicken or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder are essential for the authentic taste. If you want more heat, try adding cayenne or smoked paprika. If you’re out of any, a taco seasoning mix can work in a pinch!
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are traditional and add great flavor. For gluten-free options, look for corn tortillas that don’t contain wheat or try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Fresh Ingredients: Red onion and cilantro provide freshness. You can substitute red onion with white or green onions. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well too!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate and Cook the Meat?
Marinating the meat is key to enhancing its flavor. Start by mixing the meat with olive oil and spices. If you can, let it marinate for a couple of hours or even overnight in the fridge. This helps the flavors really soak in!
- When cooking, ensure your skillet or grill is hot. This will give a nice sear to the meat, making it flavorful.
- Cook the meat until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
This method locks in juices and flavors, giving you the best tacos possible. Happy cooking!
How to Make Mexican Street Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat:
- 1 pound carne asada or pork shoulder, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. If you have time for marinating, let the meat sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to a couple of hours, to soak up all those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Meat:
In a large bowl, add the diced carne asada or pork shoulder. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on top. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together really well, making sure the meat is coated with all those tasty spices. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a couple of hours for even more flavor.
2. Cook the Meat:
Heat a large skillet or grill over medium-high heat until nice and hot. Carefully add the marinated meat to the pan. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the meat to become browned and fully cooked. Don’t rush—this step is where all the flavors come together!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the meat is cooking, grab some corn tortillas. Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place each tortilla on the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, just enough to warm them up and make them soft and pliable. Keep them warm by stacking them in a clean dish towel.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put your tacos together! Take a warm tortilla and fill it with a generous amount of the cooked meat. Top it off with some chopped red onion and fresh cilantro for that tasty crunch and color!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tacos immediately while they’re hot! Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side so you can squeeze fresh lime juice over your tacos. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of your homemade Mexican street tacos!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Carne Asada or Pork Shoulder?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully as a substitute. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time: chicken typically cooks faster, around 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can use flour tortillas instead, but remember they have a different texture and flavor. Heat them in a skillet for the same amount of time to make them warm and pliable!
How Can I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the meat on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your tacos again. For best texture, heat the tortillas fresh!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture while marinating. You can also use spicy salsa as a topping when serving!
