The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Street Tacos

Street tacos, a staple of Mexican cuisine, have gained immense popularity worldwide for their bold flavors, vibrant colors, and affordability. These delicious, handheld treats can be customized with a wide variety of ingredients, making them a favorite among foodies and casual diners alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking authentic street tacos, covering essential ingredients, preparation techniques, and expert tips.

Understanding the Basics of Street Tacos

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the fundamental components of a traditional street taco. A typical street taco consists of:

• A small, warm corn tortilla (usually 4-6 inches in diameter)
• A protein source (meat, seafood, or vegetables)
• A variety of toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, salsa, and lime wedges
• A sprinkle of queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)

Choosing the Right Tortillas

The foundation of a great street taco is a warm, pliable corn tortilla. When selecting tortillas, look for the following characteristics:

• Made from 100% corn masa
• Soft, flexible texture
• Mild, slightly sweet flavor
• A diameter of 4-6 inches

You can find corn tortillas at most Mexican markets or well-stocked grocery stores. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own tortillas from scratch using a tortilla press and masa harina.

Preparing the Protein

The protein source is the star of the show in a street taco. Here are some popular options:

• Carnitas (braised pork)
• Al pastor (spit-roasted pork)
• Carne asada (grilled beef)
• Pollo (grilled chicken)
• Camarones (grilled shrimp)
• Vegetarian options like roasted sweet potatoes, grilled portobello mushrooms, or sautéed greens

For this example, we’ll focus on preparing carnitas, a classic street taco filling.

Carnitas Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the lard or oil over medium heat.
2. Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the orange and lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise the pork for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and fry it in a little oil until crispy.

Assembling the Tacos

Now that we have our protein ready, it’s time to assemble the tacos.

Warming the Tortillas

To warm the tortillas, you can use one of the following methods:

• Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• Grill the tortillas on a dry griddle or skillet for a few seconds on each side.
• Wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Adding the Toppings

The toppings are where you can get creative and add your personal touch to the tacos. Some popular options include:

• Diced onions
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced radishes
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Queso fresco or shredded cheese
• Salsa (mild or spicy)
• Lime wedges

Taco Toppings Bar

To create a fun and interactive dining experience, set up a taco toppings bar with all the fixings. This will allow your guests to customize their tacos to their liking.

Expert Tips and Variations

• Use a cast-iron skillet or griddle to cook the tortillas and add a smoky flavor.
• Experiment with different types of protein, such as grilled fish or roasted vegetables.
• Add some heat to your tacos with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
• Top your tacos with a fried or poached egg for added richness.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Oaxaca or Asadero, for a unique flavor profile.

Street Taco Variations

• Tacos al pastor: Add some pineapple and onion to the pork for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
• Tacos de lengua: Use braised beef tongue instead of pork for a tender and flavorful option.
• Tacos de pescado: Top your tacos with grilled or battered fish, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious, authentic street tacos that will impress your friends and family. Remember to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the dish your own. Happy cooking!

What is the difference between street tacos and traditional tacos?

Street tacos and traditional tacos differ in terms of their size, ingredients, and overall presentation. Street tacos are typically smaller in size, with a focus on a few key ingredients such as meats, onions, cilantro, and salsa. They are often served on a small corn tortilla and are designed to be eaten quickly and easily while on the go. Traditional tacos, on the other hand, can be larger and more elaborate, with a wider variety of ingredients and toppings.

In terms of flavor and texture, street tacos tend to be more rustic and authentic, with a focus on bold flavors and textures. They often feature meats that are cooked on a grill or griddle, such as carne asada or al pastor, and are served with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro. Traditional tacos, while still delicious, can be more subdued in terms of flavor and texture, with a focus on familiar ingredients and toppings.

What types of meats are commonly used in street tacos?

There are many types of meats that are commonly used in street tacos, depending on the region and personal preference. Some popular options include carne asada (grilled beef), al pastor (spit-roasted pork), carnitas (braised pork), and chorizo (Mexican sausage). These meats are often cooked on a grill or griddle and are served with a variety of toppings such as onions, cilantro, and salsa.

In addition to these meats, some street tacos may also feature more exotic options such as lengua (braised beef tongue) or tripa (fried beef tripe). These meats are often slow-cooked in a rich broth and are served with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro. Regardless of the type of meat used, the key to a great street taco is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the meat to perfection.

What is the best type of tortilla to use for street tacos?

The best type of tortilla to use for street tacos is a small, pliable corn tortilla. These tortillas are made from corn masa and are typically 4-6 inches in diameter. They are soft and flexible, making them easy to fold and bend, and have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of meats and toppings.

When selecting tortillas for street tacos, look for ones that are made from high-quality ingredients and are fresh. You can often find these tortillas at Mexican markets or specialty grocery stores. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can also use flour tortillas as a substitute, although they will have a slightly different flavor and texture.

How do I assemble a street taco?

Assembling a street taco is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. Start by warming a tortilla on a dry griddle or in the microwave for a few seconds. This will make the tortilla more pliable and easier to fold. Next, add a small amount of meat to the center of the tortilla, followed by any desired toppings such as onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Finally, fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling, and serve immediately. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro on top of the taco for extra flavor and texture. The key to a great street taco is to use high-quality ingredients and to keep the toppings simple and balanced.

What are some common toppings for street tacos?

There are many common toppings for street tacos, depending on the region and personal preference. Some popular options include diced onions, chopped cilantro, salsa, and lime juice. These toppings add a burst of flavor and texture to the taco and help to balance out the richness of the meat.

In addition to these toppings, some street tacos may also feature more elaborate toppings such as sliced radishes, diced avocado, or sour cream. These toppings can add a creamy, cooling element to the taco and help to balance out the bold flavors of the meat. Regardless of the toppings used, the key is to keep them simple and balanced, and to let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through.

Can I make street tacos at home?

Yes, you can make street tacos at home with just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking equipment. Start by selecting a type of meat that you like, such as carne asada or al pastor, and cooking it on a grill or griddle. While the meat is cooking, warm some tortillas on a dry griddle or in the microwave, and prepare any desired toppings such as onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Once the meat is cooked, assemble the tacos by placing a small amount of meat onto a warmed tortilla, followed by any desired toppings. Serve the tacos immediately, with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro on top. With a little practice, you can make delicious street tacos at home that rival those found at your favorite taco stand.

How do I store leftover street tacos?

Storing leftover street tacos requires some care to preserve their flavor and texture. If you have leftover tacos, start by separating the components, such as the meat, tortillas, and toppings, and storing them in separate containers. This will help to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy and the toppings from becoming wilted.

Store the meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for several days. Store the tortillas in a dry place, such as a paper bag or a container with a paper towel, to keep them fresh. Store any toppings such as onions, cilantro, and salsa in separate containers in the refrigerator, where they will keep for several days. When you’re ready to reassemble the tacos, simply warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos as desired.