street taco marinade recipe

The Best street taco marinade recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite street taco marinade recipe. I’ve been making this for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of lime juice, garlic, and spices gives the meat a flavor that’s both tangy and savory.

My kids love helping me mix up the marinade and watching the meat transform into a delicious, flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. I like to make a big batch of the marinade and keep it in the fridge for up to a week, so I can easily use it whenever I need it.

The street taco marinade recipe has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, where marinating meat in citrus juices and spices is a common practice. The acidity in the lime juice helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it tender and easy to cook. I’ve experimented with different combinations of spices and herbs, but this recipe remains my favorite.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply mix together the marinade ingredients, add them to your favorite cut of meat (I like to use flank steak or chicken breasts), and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will be.

This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also relatively healthy compared to other meat-based dishes. The acidity in the lime juice helps to preserve the meat, making it easier to digest. Plus, using fresh herbs and spices means that you’re getting all of the nutrients that come with eating whole foods.

Street Taco Marinade

4.6 from 799 votes

A bold and zesty marinade inspired by classic street tacos, perfect for flank steak, chicken, or pork. This blend of citrus, chili, and spices tenderizes the meat while adding deep flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 2 cupsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, and vegetable oil.
2Whisk together until the mixture is well blended and slightly emulsified.
3Add the minced garlic, chipotle peppers, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the bowl.
4Stir thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
6Whisk vigorously until all spices are fully incorporated and the marinade is smooth.
7Transfer the marinade to a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
8Use immediately or refrigerate for up to one week; shake well before each use.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board
Glass or plastic container with lid

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

Marinate meat for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. For best results, use a resealable plastic bag to coat the meat evenly. Leftover marinade can be boiled and used as a sauce.

Watch Video Of How Street Taco Marinade Works

This street taco marinade is a staple in my kitchen because it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It works for any occasion from a quick family dinner to a festive gathering with friends.

I always feel good serving it because I know the ingredients are simple and wholesome. For storing leftovers, keep the cooked meat in an airtight container in the fridge and it will stay good for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back the moisture. You can also use the leftover meat in burrito bowls, quesadillas, or salads for an easy next day meal.

This marinade truly makes every taco night something special and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Street Taco Marinade

Q: What type of meat works best with this marinade?

For this recipe, I recommend using flank steak or chicken breasts. The acidity in the lime juice helps to break down the proteins in these cuts of meat, making them tender and easy to cook.

Q: Can I use other types of citrus juice instead of lime?

While you can use other types of citrus juice, such as lemon or orange, I prefer to stick with lime juice for its unique flavor profile. If you do decide to use another type of citrus juice, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of garlic and spices accordingly.

Q: How long can I store this marinade in the fridge?

I like to make a big batch of this marinade and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. This allows me to easily use it whenever I need it without having to worry about running out.

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

While dried herbs will work in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh herbs for their superior flavor and aroma. If you do decide to use dried herbs, be sure to rehydrate them before adding them to your marinade.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover tacos?

I recommend reheating leftover tacos using either a skillet on low heat or by wrapping them in foil and warming them up in the oven at 200°F (90°C). This will help prevent overcooking and preserve the delicate flavors of your tacos.

Q: Can I make this marinade without an electric blender?

You can definitely make this marinade without an electric blender – simply chop up your garlic cloves finely before mixing everything together.

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