Carne Asada Tacos

Ingredients

While the original Mexican carne asada tacos are typically seasoned with Mexican spices and served with salsa and guacamole, this Croatian adaptation incorporates Croatian flavors and ingredients. The marinade includes Croatian herbs and spices, and the tacos are served with a tangy ajvar sauce, a popular Croatian condiment made from roasted red peppers and eggplant. We alse have the original recipe for Carne asada tacos, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef steak, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 8 small tortillas 8 small tortillas
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Ajvar sauce, for serving Ajvar sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the beef from the marinade and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. 6.
   Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of grilled beef on each tortilla. Top with sliced red onion, diced tomato, shredded lettuce, and chopped fresh parsley.
7. 7.
   Drizzle ajvar sauce over the tacos and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef steak — For the best results, choose a tender cut of beef such as sirloin or ribeye. Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Ajvar sauce — You can find ajvar sauce in specialty stores or make your own by roasting red peppers and eggplant, then blending them with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the grilled beef before assembling the tacos.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the tacos with a side of Croatian-style potato salad for a complete meal.
• If you don't have a grill, you can cook the beef in a hot skillet or under the broiler in the oven.
• Feel free to customize the toppings by adding sliced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style carne asada tacos hot, allowing everyone to assemble their own tacos according to their preferences. Provide extra ajvar sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over the tacos.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tacos on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley leaves. Serve with a side of Croatian-style potato salad and a bowl of ajvar sauce for a visually appealing and delicious presentation.