MEXICAN STREET TACOS

Having been raised in California, specifically Southern California…I’m used to seeing Mexican taco trucks in our area. And of course, one of the staples of these abundant little traveling restaurants is tacos. And these tacos don’t resemble Taco Bell tacos in the least!

First of all, the corn tortillas are miniature compare to Americanized tacos, only about 4 inches across versus the usual 8 inch variety most people are used to. They are warmed on a “plancha” or flat griddle, layered 2 per each taco, and topped with carne asada, beef barbacoa, stew chicken, tripe (stomach), or lingua (beef tongue) just to name a few. Then a healthy sprinkle of diced onions and diced chiles (usually serrano or jalapeno), maybe a little cilantro, fresh lime or lemon juice…and that’s it. No lettuce, no taco dressing, and no shredded cheese. Simple…a bit spicy for most Anglo tastes…and easy to eat in just a couple of bites. Usually comes 2 to an order on a paper plate. Current price: perhaps $3.00 for 2 tacos.

My version below has beef barbacoa (shredded beef), Pico de Gallo, a little Cotija cheese, and some cilantro. I embellish a little from the traditional street taco form factor. And since today is Taco Tuesday and I have an abundance of leftover Beef Barbacoa…time for a few Mexican Street Tacos.