Bbq Skirt Steak Tacos Recipe

ByJames Level

My favorite dish to create is BBQ Skirt Steak Tacos, and they could not be simpler. The first step to the incredible flavor of these tacos is marinating the skirt steak.

I create a marinade of lime juice, olive oil, and spices that could stand alone as a dry rub. I use chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.

The next step is to grill the skirt steak. When using skirt steak, it’s essential not to overcook it.

I typically grill the steak for 3 to 4 minutes per side. For the tortillas, I use corn.

They are smaller than most tortillas but make for a more authentic taco- and are also gluten-free. For finishing touches, I chop up some fresh cilantro (I have a friend who thinks this is an unholy endeavor) and some red onion.

Lastly, I add crushed cotija cheese and serve the tacos with lime wedges.

Ingredients photo for Bbq Skirt Steak Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Bbq Skirt Steak Tacos Recipe

Skirt Steak:
High-protein, high-iron—perfect for energizing, sustaining meals.

Lime Juice:
Imparts a sharp taste and an abundant amount of vitamin C.

Smoked Paprika:
Gives a smoky depth and antioxidant benefits.

Chili Powder:
Enhances flavor with heat; capsaicin-rich.

Olive Oil:
Full of healthy fats and antioxidants, heart-healthy.

Cotija Cheese:
Provides a rich, smooth consistency; provides calcium and protein.

Corn Tortillas:
Yields carbohydrates and fiber; free of gluten.

Cilantro:
Herb that is fresh and adds zest and helps digestion.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 1 1/2 pounds skirt steak

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 2 teaspoons chili powder

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 8-10 small corn tortillas

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • 1/2 cup diced red onion

  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese

  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

  • Your favorite salsa or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Take a small bowl and mix in the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients will form a marinade.

2. In a shallow dish, place the skirt steak and add the marinade, ensuring that the steak is coated evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate the steak for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you prefer a more intense flavor.

3. Heat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high temperature.

4. Take the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the steak for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired temperature.

5. Take the steak off the grill and let it sit for 5 minutes. After that, slice it into thin strips against the grain.

6. Heat the corn tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side while the steak rests, until they are flexible and warm but not too crispy.

7. To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of steak on each tortilla.

8. Sprinkle cilantro, diced red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese on top of each taco.

9. Accompany with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

10. For added flavor, toss in your favorite salsa or hot sauce, and savor the delights of your BBQ skirt steak tacos!

Equipment Needed

1. Small bowl
2. Whisk or fork
3. Shallow dish
4. Plastic wrap or cover for the dish
5. Grill or grill pan
6. Tongs
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Serving platter or plate

FAQ

  • Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?Sure! Skirt steak has excellent flavor and tenderness when cooked just right, but flank steak or hanger steak can also be used in its place.

  • How do I know when the steak is done?For optimal tenderness, cooking the steak to medium-rare is best. Check for an internal temperature of roughly 130°F (54°C) with a meat thermometer.

  • Can I marinate the steak ahead of time?Indeed, you can soak the steak in the marinade of olive oil, lime juice, and spices for as long as 24 hours in the fridge to elicit an even more pronounced flavor.

  • What can I use instead of cotija cheese?When cotija cheese cannot be found, good substitutes for the similar texture and flavor are feta cheese or queso fresco.

  • How do I warm the corn tortillas?Warming them requires either of these methods: wrapping in foil and placing them in a low oven; grilling them lightly; or using a dry skillet to heat them until they are pliable.

  • Can I add vegetables to the tacos?Absolutely, you can boost flavor and texture by adding toppings such as diced avocado, sliced radishes, or shredded lettuce.

  • Are there any recommended side dishes?Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad make great partners for these tacos.

Substitutions and Variations

Flank steak or thinly sliced sirloin can work in place of skirt steak.
Avocado oil or vegetable oil can be used in place of olive oil.
Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can be used in place of lime juice.
Feta cheese or queso fresco can substitute for Cotija cheese.
For a low-carb option, flour tortillas or lettuce wraps can be used instead of corn tortillas.