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Mexican Street Tacos with Marinated Steak and Fresh Toppings Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Claire
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 street tacos
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

Authentic Mexican Street Tacos featuring tender, marinated flank steak cooked to perfection and served on small corn or flour tortillas. Topped with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any taco lover.


Ingredients

Scale

Marinade and Steak

  • 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 Tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Taco Components

  • 12 street taco size or mini corn or flour tortillas

Taco Toppings

  • Freshly chopped cilantro
  • Freshly diced red onion
  • Fresh limes, cut into wedges


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Whisk thoroughly to blend all ingredients.
  2. Marinate the Steak: Add the cut steak pieces to the marinade and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 12 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot enough for searing the steak. This will help develop a flavorful crust.
  4. Cook the Steak – First Batch: Using a slotted spoon, remove about half of the steak pieces from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the steak in the skillet without overcrowding, and cook while stirring for about 4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
  5. Rest the Cooked Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining steak.
  6. Cook the Steak – Second Batch: Repeat the cooking process with the remaining steak pieces, cooking them to your preferred temperature. Once done, discard any leftover marinade.
  7. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly on a gas burner until they are soft and pliable, which typically takes less than a minute per side.
  8. Assemble the Tacos: Place warm steak pieces on each tortilla. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to taste.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Marinating the steak for longer (up to 12 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Cooking the steak in batches prevents overcrowding, which ensures better searing.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the marinade and topping to add authentic Mexican zest.
  • Street taco size tortillas are typically smaller than regular tortillas and enhance authenticity.
  • Adjust the seasoning by adding extra chili powder or cumin if you prefer spicier tacos.
  • Can be served with additional toppings like avocado slices, salsa, or cotija cheese for variation.