Sizzling Street-Style Carne Asada Tacos Recipe for the Grill
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First Posted May 9, 2025 | Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by BBQ Pit Master
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If you’ve ever wandered the vibrant streets of Mexico, you might have stumbled upon a food stall serving up mouthwatering carne asada tacos.
These street-style tacos are filled with grilled marinated beef that’s bursting with flavor, making them a beloved dish for any taco lover. Perfect for gatherings or a casual dinner, they bring a taste of the street to your kitchen.
Imagine biting into a warm corn tortilla filled with juicy carne asada, topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
This recipe will guide you in crafting your own street-style carne asada tacos that are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Vibrant Presentation of Street-Style Carne Asada Tacos
Street-style carne asada tacos are a delightful culinary experience that brings the essence of Mexican street food right to your table. These tacos feature warm corn tortillas filled with juicy, grilled beef, making them a popular choice among taco aficionados.
The colorful toppings of fresh cilantro and diced onions add a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Each taco is garnished with lime wedges, which not only serve as a zesty accompaniment but also contribute to the visual appeal of the dish.
Flavorful Filling: The Heart of the Taco
The star of any carne asada taco is undoubtedly the marinated beef. It is essential to select the right cut of meat, such as flank or skirt steak, which offers tenderness and rich flavor.
Marinating the beef with ingredients like olive oil, lime juice, and spices allows the meat to absorb the bold flavors, resulting in an irresistible filling. Once grilled to perfection, the beef develops a smoky exterior while remaining juicy and succulent inside.
Toppings that Make a Difference
While the carne asada provides a hearty base, the toppings elevate the tacos to another level. Fresh cilantro adds a herbal note, while diced onions provide a slight crunch and sharpness.
When assembling the tacos, distributing these toppings evenly ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. The addition of lime juice right before serving brightens the dish and adds a refreshing twist.
The Perfect Tortilla: A Key Component
The choice of tortilla is equally crucial in creating authentic carne asada tacos. Corn tortillas are often preferred for their texture and flavor, complementing the beef beautifully.
Warming the tortillas before filling them is vital, as it makes them pliable and enhances their taste. This simple step can significantly improve the overall texture and enjoyment of the tacos.
Serving Suggestions for Street-Style Carne Asada Tacos
When serving carne asada tacos, presentation plays an important role. Arranging the tacos on a rustic wooden plate or board adds a charming touch that evokes the street food vibe.
Accompanying the tacos with lime wedges allows diners to customize their flavor, making each taco experience unique. Consider pairing these tacos with a side of salsa or pickled vegetables for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
A Culinary Experience for All
Making street-style carne asada tacos at home is an enjoyable way to bring a taste of Mexico to your gatherings. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, these tacos are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and rich flavors.
As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the effort that goes into crafting this beloved dish. The combination of grilled beef, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas creates a satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of street food culture.
Delicious Street-Style Carne Asada Tacos
These street-style carne asada tacos are a feast for the senses. The tender, marinated beef is grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the toppings. Each bite is a balance of rich meat and zesty garnishes, leaving your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients
1 pound flank steak or skirt steak
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
3 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the steak and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
Warm the Tortillas: On the grill or a skillet, lightly warm the corn tortillas until they are pliable.
Assemble the Tacos: Place a few slices of carne asada on each tortilla. Top with chopped onions and cilantro.
Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Calories: 250kcal
Fat: 15g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Brief Background
Street-style carne asada tacos are a Mexican classic, featuring marinated, grilled beef sliced thin and served on warm tortillas.
Known for their bold citrus and spice flavor, they’re a staple of street vendors and backyard BBQs alike
Grilling Tips or Variations
Marinate for flavor: Let the beef marinate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to soak up all the citrus and spice.
Use skirt or flank steak: These cuts cook fast and stay juicy—perfect for tacos.
Grill hot and fast: Cook over high heat (450–500°F) for 3–5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Rest before slicing: Let the steak rest 5–10 minutes, then slice against the grain for tenderness.
Char the tortillas: Toss corn tortillas on the grill for 20–30 seconds per side to give them that authentic street-style touch.
Tasty Variations
Smoky twist: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika to the marinade for deeper flavor.
Fresh toppings: Serve with chopped onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and a spicy salsa verde or roja.
Cheese optional: Crumbled cotija or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a creamy bite.
Heat it up: Top with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for extra spice.
Grilled extras: Add grilled onions, peppers, or pineapple to mix sweet and savory flavors.
1. What cut of beef is best for carne asada?
Skirt steak or flank steak are the most common choices. They’re flavorful, quick to grill, and perfect for slicing thinly against the grain for tacos.
2. How long should I marinate the meat?
Marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but 4–8 hours is ideal for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating overnight, as the citrus can start to break down the meat too much.
3. What’s in a traditional carne asada marinade?
The marinade usually includes lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cilantro, olive oil, and spices like cumin and chili powder.
4. How do I get that authentic street-style flavor?
Grill the steak over high heat for a quick sear and slight char. Use fresh corn tortillas and simple toppings like diced onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
5. Can I make carne asada tacos ahead of time?
You can prep the marinade and toppings ahead of time. Grill the meat just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers reheat well for up to 3 days.
Ryan Conlon is a BBQ enthusiast and inspired chef on a journey through the smoky, savory world of outdoor cooking. Hailing from the heart of the Midwest, Ryan’s passion for grilling ignited during his early years, where family gatherings often revolved around the sizzle of the grill and the aroma of seasoned meats.
