Get ready to transform your ordinary taco night into a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! This Street Steak Taco Marinade is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen. With a perfect blend of zesty lime, aromatic spices, and rich olive oil, this marinade turns a simple piece of steak into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your friends and family begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 batch
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, and minced garlic cloves.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to the oil mixture. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Place your chosen cut of steak (recommended: flank or skirt steak) in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring the meat is completely coated. Gently massage the marinade into the meat to help the flavors penetrate.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. For best results, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor. Do not marinate longer than 8 hours, as the acid from the lime juice can begin to break down the meat's texture.
- Before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Grill, pan-sear, or broil the steak to your desired doneness, typically 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing against the grain for tacos.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: Flank or skirt steak works best for this marinade, as they absorb flavors quickly and become incredibly tender.
- Marinating is an art: Don't rush the process! Let the steak sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours to maintain the perfect texture.
- Room temperature matters: Always let your steak rest outside the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Slice against the grain: This is crucial for tender, easy-to-eat taco meat. Cut perpendicular to the muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.
- Rest your meat: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 128kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 0g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
