Oh boy, let me tell you about my all-time favorite way to kick off a taco night: Street Style Carne Asada Beef Tacos! These bad boys never fail to make my taste buds do a happy dance. You know how certain recipes bring back memories? This one takes me right back to those lively street fairs in my hometown, where the aroma of sizzling steak fills the air and gives you that warm, cozy feeling.
There’s just something so magical about juicy grilled beef wrapped in a soft corn tortilla, topped with fresh cilantro and zesty onion, all while you squeeze a wedge of lime over it like a pro. Plus, it’s the perfect dish for gatherings – whether it’s a casual Friday night or a celebratory feast with friends and family, these tacos will have everyone coming back for seconds!
### What’s in Street Style Carne Asada Beef Tacos?
Let’s break down the star players in this delicious ensemble:
Flank Steak or Skirt Steak: This cut of beef is perfect for grilling and super flavorful when marinated. I always opt for flank steak when I can find it, but skirt steak works beautifully too.
Olive Oil: A little fat helps the marinade stick to the meat and enhances the flavor. Always use a good quality olive oil for the best results!
Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a depth of flavor that’s just irresistible.
Lime & Orange Juice: These citrus juices really brighten up the marinade, giving that tangy kick you crave. Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch!
Ground Cumin, Chili Powder, & Smoked Paprika: These spices bring the heat and smoky flavor that transports you straight to taco paradise.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning your meat just right!
Corn Tortillas: I recommend warming them up on the grill or in a skillet for that authentic street taco feel.
Onion and Fresh Cilantro: Fresh toppings that bring crunch and brightness to balance out the richness of the carne asada.
Lime Wedges: An absolute must for squeezing over the finished tacos—trust me, it makes all the difference!
### Is Street Style Carne Asada Beef Tacos Good for You?
Good question! Let’s dive into it.
These tacos can certainly fit into a balanced diet. The **flank steak** provides a hefty dose of protein, which is great for muscle maintenance and overall health. Plus, it’s lower in fat than some other beef cuts, which is a win. The **olive oil** offers healthy fats, making it a delicious way to keep your heart happy. On the other hand, it’s always a good idea to watch your serving size and not go overboard with those tortillas, especially if you’re keeping an eye on carbs.
Fresh toppings like **cilantro** and **onions** not only add flavor but also pack in vitamins and antioxidants. Just remember that moderation is key, and of course, pair these tacos with plenty of vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
### Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 4 hungry taco lovers:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 orange, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
– 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
– Corn tortillas, warmed
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges, for serving
### How to Make Street Style Carne Asada Beef Tacos?
Alright, here’s the fun part! Let’s get cooking:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the **olive oil**, **minced garlic**, **lime juice**, **orange juice**, **cumin**, **chili powder**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **black pepper**. This is your flavorful marinade!
2. Place your flank or skirt steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the meat. Seal it up or cover, and let it hang out in the fridge for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better for maximum flavor absorption.
3. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the steak out of the marinade, letting the excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on how you like it. Once it’s done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
5. Slice the steak thinly against the grain into delicious bite-sized pieces.
6. Now comes the best part! Grab a warmed **corn tortilla**, pile on some of that mouthwatering carne asada, and top with your **chopped onion** and **fresh cilantro**.
7. Serve it up with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a little juice over your tacos just before you take that first delightful bite. Enjoy!
### Taco Tips & Tricks
– If you want to kick it up a notch, consider topping your tacos with some crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of hot sauce.
– Don’t have corn tortillas? Flour tortillas work too, but keep in mind they won’t give you that authentic street taco vibe.
– Leftover steak? It makes for an awesome salad topping or a delicious filling for burritos or quesadillas!
I can’t wait for you to try making these Street Style Carne Asada Beef Tacos! I promise they’ll be a hit. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about this recipe. Don’t forget to share your taco experience with me—I’d love to hear how they turned out! Happy cooking!
