Cecina taco recipe showcase the savory and smoky flavors of thinly sliced, salted, and marinated beef, known as cecina. The beef is seasoned with a blend of spices, including black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, creating a robust and flavorful profile. After a brief marination, the cecina slices are seared to perfection, achieving a delightful balance of tenderness and crispiness.
Assembled on warm tortillas, these tacos are adorned with traditional toppings such as chopped onions and cilantro, providing freshness and texture. A squeeze of lime and a drizzle of salsa or hot sauce enhance the overall experience, adding a zesty kick to complement the savory beef.
Cecina tacos are a delicious representation of Mexican cuisine, capturing the essence of simplicity and bold flavors. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or featured at a festive gathering, these tacos offer a delightful culinary experience for those seeking a taste of authentic Mexican street food.
Ingredients
For the Cecina:
- 1 lb cecina (thinly sliced, salted and dried beef)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Tacos:
- Small corn or flour tortillas
- Chopped onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Salsa or hot sauce of your choice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cecina:
- Rinse the cecina under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine vegetable oil, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and lime juice to create a marinade.
- Coat the cecina slices with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more flavor.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the cecina slices for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas on the skillet or in a dry pan.
- Place a few slices of cecina on each tortilla.
- Top with chopped onions and cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
- Add salsa or hot sauce according to your spice preference.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the cecina tacos on a platter and serve immediately.
Expected Preparation Time
Approximately 45 minutes (including marination time).
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5 stars)
Note
Cecina is typically salted and dried, so ensure you adjust the salt level in your marinade accordingly. You can also customize the toppings with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, or your favorite Mexican crema.
Cecina tacos are a delightful dish, featuring thinly sliced, seasoned, and grilled or seared beef. The marinade imparts rich flavors to the cecina, making these tacos a delicious and satisfying treat. Adjust the spice levels and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade cecina tacos!