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Flavorful Homemade Street Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

homemade street tacos with cilantro lime slaw - featured image

These homemade street tacos feature seasoned meat paired with a fresh, zesty cilantro lime slaw, delivering a quick, easy, and delicious meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage (or mix green and purple)
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp honey or agave
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sliced radishes, diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Cook the Taco Meat: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or chosen protein, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Season the Meat: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable. Keep warm by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon a generous amount of seasoned meat onto each warm tortilla. Top with cilantro lime slaw and optional toppings like sliced radishes, diced avocado, or crumbled queso fresco. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

If slaw tastes too tart after chilling, add a pinch more honey. Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning meat to prevent steaming. Warm tortillas until soft and pliable, not crispy. Slaw can be made ahead and tastes better after resting. Use fresh shredded cabbage for best crunch. Adjust spice level by adding jalapeños or chipotle powder.

Nutrition

Keywords: street tacos, cilantro lime slaw, homemade tacos, easy dinner, quick tacos, Mexican food, taco recipe