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Taco de Calle : Bold & Authentic Mexican Dish

Few dishes are as iconic and beloved as the Authentic Taco de Calle—the perfect handheld bite that delivers bold flavor, juicy meat, and vibrant toppings, all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 pounds flank steak (or skirt steak)
  • Juice of 1 large orange
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 small corn tortillas (doubled for 6 tacos)
  • ½ cup chopped white onion
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Salsa of choice (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  2. Grill the Steak: Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
  3. Rest and Slice: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to retain its juices. Slice thinly across the grain, then chop into small bite-sized pieces.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat a skillet or comal over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until soft and slightly charred. Double up tortillas for each taco to hold all that juicy filling.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Add chopped steak to each tortilla, then top with diced onion and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime over the top and serve with your favorite salsa.

Notes

  • Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While two hours works, letting the steak marinate overnight ensures maximum flavor penetration.
  • Use High Heat: For that authentic charred flavor, don’t be afraid to cook the steak on high heat. A hot grill locks in the juices and creates beautiful grill marks.
  • Slice Against the Grain: This keeps the steak tender instead of chewy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Authentic Mexican Food Tacos