Few things are as beloved in Mexico, both for locals and tourists alike, than the traditional street taco. Small taco shops and even smaller taco carts across Mexico spit out hundreds of tacos a day. These tacos typically start with a protein, and then topped simply with cilantro, onion, and lime juice. These street tacos are traditionally "double-wrapped," using two soft corn tortillas instead of just one.
While the recipe below prepares street tacos using carne asada, this recipe would be equally delicious using seared chicken, carnitas, and even ground beef. These tacos are authentic enough to serve any Mexican missing their hometown, but can also be served at a party with both kids and adults. Everyone loves being able to create their own taco!
Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
8 tacos
5 mins
20 mins
25 mins
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 pounds flank steak
1 large white onion, diced, divided
3 fresh limes, divided
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
16 mini corn tortillas
Kosher salt & fresh ground black pepper
Cut the steak into long, thin slices. Cut those slices into bite-size pieces.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak and sauté until the meat starts to brown, about 2-3 mins.
Add half of the onion to the skillet and sauté with the beef until the onions start to soften and become translucent, about 3-5 mins. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Squeeze the juice of two limes over the steak and onions. Continue cooking until the steak is cooked through and the onions have browned. Prepare tortillas while steak is finishing.
Using your stovetop, place each tortilla directly on the heat source until the tortillas become warm and pliable, about 10 secs. Stack tortillas and cover with a paper towel to keep warm.
To prepare a taco, take two tortillas, and spoon 2 tablespoons of the steak/onion mixture into the center. Top steak with a sprinkling of diced raw onion, fresh chopped cilantro, and a lime wedge for extra lime juice. Serve two tacos per person.
Pro-tip: Add other traditional street taco toppings such as sliced raw radish, salsa verde, or pickled onions.
