Crock Pot Street Tacos are a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy authentic Mexican-style tacos at home. These tacos feature tender, slow-cooked beef, typically seasoned with traditional spices and marinated for enhanced flavor. The slow-cooking process ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the spices, making each bite rich and satisfying. This recipe is particularly versatile, allowing busy individuals to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights, Crock Pot Street Tacos can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.

What is Carne Asada?

Carne Asada, which translates to “grilled meat,” is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, traditionally made with marinated beef, typically skirt or flank steak, which is then grilled to perfection. The dish originated in northern Mexico and is often served in tacos, burritos, or on its own with sides like rice and beans.

Marination is crucial in Carne Asada, as it infuses the meat with a depth of flavor, tenderizes it, and enhances the overall eating experience. The marinade usually includes ingredients like lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and various spices such as cumin, chili powder, and oregano. These components contribute to a well-balanced flavor profile, combining acidity, spice, and freshness that makes Carne Asada so delicious and versatile. The lime juice, for instance, adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat, while garlic and cilantro provide a robust aromatic foundation. Spices like cumin and chili powder bring warmth and a hint of smokiness, which complement the grilled meat’s natural flavors.

Carne Asada is not only a staple in traditional Mexican cuisine but also a beloved dish across various cultures, appreciated for its bold flavors and versatility in different dishes.

Selecting the Right Cut of Beef

When selecting the right cut of beef for Crock Pot Street Tacos, it’s essential to understand the differences between popular choices like flank steak, skirt steak, and other options.

Flank steak is leaner, with a pronounced grain, offering a hearty, beefy flavor. Skirt steak is slightly fattier, with a looser texture, making it more tender when cooked correctly. Both cuts are excellent for marination, absorbing flavors deeply, but flank steak tends to be slightly thicker.

When choosing the best cut, consider your preference for fat content and texture. If you prefer a leaner, chewier bite, go for flank steak. If you enjoy a more tender, juicy experience, skirt steak might be the better option.

Regardless of the cut, it’s crucial to slice the meat against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew, which is particularly important for street tacos where the meat should be easy to eat and full of flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

In the Crock Pot Street Tacos recipe, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor. The key ingredients include:

• Beef (Flank or Skirt Steak): Provides the rich, beefy base for the tacos.
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Lime Juice: Essential for marinating the meat, tenderizing it while adding a zesty flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory depth of the marinade.
• Onions and Bell Peppers: Contribute sweetness and a slight crunch.

Fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime are crucial for the authentic flavor, as they bring a brightness that complements the rich, slow-cooked beef. Cilantro should be fresh to avoid bitterness, and lime juice must be from fresh limes to ensure the right acidity and flavor.

For alternatives and substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free beef broth or tamari instead of soy sauce if included.
• Vegetarian Substitution: Consider using portobello mushrooms or jackfruit as a meat substitute.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preparation:
   • Begin by preparing the marinade. Combine lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
   • Place the beef (flank or skirt steak) in the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Cooking in the Crock Pot:
   • Place the marinated beef in the crock pot. Add sliced onions and bell peppers on top of the meat.
   • Pour beef broth over the ingredients to keep the meat moist during cooking.
   • Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
3. Shredding the Beef:
   • Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the crock pot and use two forks to shred it. The slow-cooking process will ensure that the meat is tender and easy to pull apart.
   • Return the shredded beef to the crock pot and mix it with the juices and vegetables.
4. Frying the Tortillas:
   • In a skillet, melt a small amount of butter over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are lightly browned and slightly crispy.
   • Frying the tortillas in butter adds richness and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall taco experience.
5. Assembling the Tacos:
   • Place a portion of the shredded beef onto each tortilla.
   • Top with your choice of fresh toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, salsa, or a squeeze of lime.
6. Serving:
   • Serve the tacos warm, with additional sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or guacamole for a complete meal.

Tips for Tender and Flavorful Meat:

• Marinate the meat for an extended period to enhance the flavor.
• Slow cooking at low temperatures ensures the meat becomes tender without drying out.
• Shredding the beef after cooking allows it to soak up the flavorful juices, making each bite succulent and rich.

Frying tortillas in butter not only makes them crisp but also adds a layer of flavor that complements the tender, flavorful beef, making these tacos truly special.

Traditional Toppings for Street Tacos

Street tacos are typically served with simple, fresh toppings that enhance the flavor of the slow-cooked beef. The most common toppings include:

• Chopped Onions: Adds a crisp, slightly pungent flavor.
• Cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbal note.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish.
• Salsa: Adds heat and moisture, with variations ranging from mild to spicy.
• Radishes: Thinly sliced for a crunchy, peppery bite.

Creative Variations and Alternative Toppings

For a twist on traditional toppings, consider:

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato-based salsa that adds color and texture.
• Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Adds creaminess and richness.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For a tangy, spicy kick.
• Queso Fresco: A crumbly cheese that adds a mild, salty flavor.
• Chipotle Crema: A smoky, spicy sauce that complements the beef.

Side Dish Suggestions

To complete the meal, consider serving these tacos with:

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime zest.
• Refried Beans: Creamy, seasoned beans that add a hearty element to the meal.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime.
• Mexican Slaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw that adds freshness and contrast.

Best Practices for Storing Leftover Meat and Tortillas

To store leftover meat, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meat in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain moisture.

Tortillas should be wrapped in foil or stored in a resealable plastic bag to prevent them from drying out. They can also be frozen, with parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent sticking.

Repurposing Leftovers

Leftover meat can be repurposed into various dishes:

• Burrito Bowls: Layer the meat with rice, beans, and toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cheese.
• Quesadillas: Use the meat as filling, along with cheese, between two tortillas.
• Taco Salad: Toss the meat with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a hearty salad.
• Nachos: Sprinkle the shredded meat over tortilla chips, add cheese, and bake until melted. Top with jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.

FAQs

What are the key spices in Carne Asada?

The key spices in Carne Asada typically include cumin, chili powder, oregano, and black pepper. These spices combine to create a warm, slightly smoky flavor profile that enhances the meat’s natural taste.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, while flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. These cuts may offer different textures but can still be delicious when marinated and cooked properly.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used instead of corn tortillas. They offer a softer texture and slightly different flavor but work well for street tacos, especially if you prefer a less chewy option.

What are some good sides to serve with street tacos?

Great sides for street tacos include Cilantro Lime Rice, Refried Beans, Elote (Mexican Street Corn), and Mexican Slaw. These sides complement the flavors of the tacos and round out the meal.

Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos

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• Author: Christine

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crock Pot Street Tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that features tender, slow-cooked beef marinated in traditional Mexican spices. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying option that can be customized with your favorite toppings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 lbs flank steak
• 1/2 white onion (chopped)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 bundle cilantro (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 fresh limes (juiced)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 24 mini corn tortillas

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Instructions

• Place the steak in a crock pot. Rub the olive oil over the steak.
• Then mix together the garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper and cumin together in a small bowl. Rub this mixture over the steak.
• Then top with the lime juice from 1 of the limes, chopped cilantro and diced onions. Pour the beef broth around the steak in the crock pot.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or cook on high for 3-4 hours.
• After the cook time, shred the beef and top with the remaining lime juice from the other lime.
• Then melt the butter in a large skillet or on a griddle. Fry the mini corn tortillas in the melted butter for 1 minutes or until the tortillas are soft.
• Allow them to cool slightly. Then top the mini tortillas with the beef and your favorite taco toppings. I use 2 mini corn tortillas per taco.

Notes

• Marination: For the best flavor, marinate the beef overnight.
• Slow Cooking: Cooking the beef on low heat for several hours ensures it becomes tender and full of flavor.
• Tortilla Tip: Frying tortillas in butter adds a rich, crispy texture that elevates the tacos.