If you’re a fan of Mexican food, then you’ve probably heard of street tacos. These delicious tacos are a popular Mexican street food that has gained popularity all over the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what street tacos are, their history, and how to make them at home.
What are street tacos?
Street tacos are small, handheld tacos that are sold by street vendors in Mexico. They’re usually made with soft corn tortillas and filled with a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, or pork. They’re also often topped with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
The history of street tacos
Street tacos have been a popular food in Mexico for centuries. They were originally sold by street vendors, who would set up small stands in the streets and sell food to passersby. Over time, street tacos became a staple of Mexican street food, and they’re now enjoyed all over the world.
Types of street tacos
There are many different types of street tacos, each with its own unique flavor and style. Some popular types of street tacos include:
Carne asada tacos
Carne asada tacos are made with grilled steak that has been marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices. They’re often served with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
Al pastor tacos
Al pastor tacos are made with pork that has been marinated in a mixture of chilies, spices, and pineapple. The pork is then cooked on a spit and sliced thinly before being served in a tortilla.
Barbacoa tacos
Barbacoa tacos are made with beef that has been slow-cooked in a pit or a slow cooker until it’s tender and flavorful. They’re often served with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Carnitas tacos
Carnitas tacos are made with pork that has been cooked slowly in lard until it’s crispy and tender. They’re often served with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
How to make street tacos at home
Making street tacos at home is easy and fun. Here’s a simple recipe for carne asada street tacos:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- Corn tortillas
- Salsa
- Lime wedges
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together the lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, and onion.
- Add the sliced flank steak to the bowl and mix well, making sure the steak is coated in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked to your desired doneness.
- Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry pan.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of steak in each tortilla and topping with salsa and a squeeze of lime juice.
Conclusion
Street tacos are a delicious and popular Mexican street food that has gained popularity all over the world. With a variety of fillings and toppings to choose from, there’s a street taco for everyone.
Whether you’re in Mexico or trying to recreate the experience at home, street tacos are a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
FAQs
- Are street tacos always sold on the street?
Not necessarily. While they originated as a street food, you can find them at many restaurants and food trucks as well.
- Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for street tacos?
Corn tortillas are traditional for street tacos, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer.
- What are some common toppings for street tacos?
Common toppings include cilantro, onions, salsa, and a squeeze of lime juice. Some people also like to add avocado or sour cream.
- Can I make street tacos with vegetarian or vegan fillings?
Absolutely! You can use grilled vegetables, beans, tofu, or other meat substitutes to make delicious vegetarian or vegan street tacos.
- Are street tacos spicy?
They can be, depending on the type of meat and toppings used. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can ask for your tacos without spicy toppings or add less chili powder to the marinade.