Mexican Street Tacos

Cooking Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create your taco seasoning blend.
2. Pat the meat completely dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface prevents proper browning and caramelization, which are crucial for developing deep flavors.
3. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the meat, ensuring even coverage on all sides. Let the seasoned meat rest at room temperature for fifteen to twenty minutes while you prepare the toppings.
4. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it is smoking hot. This intense heat is essential for creating the charred edges characteristic of authentic street tacos.
5. Add one tablespoon of oil to the pan and immediately place the meat down. For steak, cook for three to four minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. For chicken, cook thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately five to six minutes per side.
6. Once cooked, transfer the meat to a cutting board and let it rest for five to seven minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
7. While the meat rests, warm the corn tortillas. You can do this directly over a gas flame for fifteen to twenty seconds per side until lightly charred, or warm them in a dry skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Dice the rested meat into small, bite-sized pieces. The pieces should be small enough to fit comfortably in a taco but large enough to maintain texture and juiciness.
9. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the diced meat and toss gently to coat. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds that authentic street taco tang.
10. To assemble, stack two warm tortillas together (this is traditional and helps prevent breakage), add a generous portion of meat, top with diced onion and fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges and salsa on the side.

Chef's Tips

The double tortilla technique is not just traditional but practical. It provides structural support and prevents the tacos from falling apart, while also giving you extra deliciousness in every bite.

For maximum authenticity, seek out fresh corn tortillas from a local tortilleria or Mexican market. The difference in flavor and texture compared to mass-produced tortillas is remarkable.

The key to exceptional tacos lies in the quality of your ingredients. Use the freshest cilantro you can find, and do not skip the lime juice—it ties all the flavors together and provides essential brightness.