How to Perfectly Cut Skirt Steak for Street Tacos: Techniques and Tips

Introduction to Skirt Steak for Street Tacos

Skirt steak is a versatile cut of meat cherished by cooks around the world for its rich flavor and ability to add a delicious, slightly spicy twist to street tacos. This cut is perfect when marinated, grilled, and thinly sliced according to the right technique. Let's explore how to prepare your skirt steak to perfection and make some unforgettable street tacos.

Understanding Skirt Steak

Skirt steak is one of the less commonly known cuts, coming from the diaphragm of the cow. It is longer than it is wide, with a thicker section in the middle and thinner edges. This characteristic, combined with its firmer texture, makes it ideally suited for marinating and cutting into strips. The thicker middle part may need some extra care to ensure it doesn't overpower the dish.

Preparing the Skirt Steak

Preparation and Marination

Before starting to cut your skirt steak, it's important to prepare it for optimal tenderness. Begin by giving the meat a whack with a meat mallet to break down its fibers and enhance its texture. Once that's done, it's time to prepare a flavorful rub using a mix of spices such as chili powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add a bit of oil to help the spices adhere better to the meat.

Place the seasoned meat in an airtight container and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Prolonged marination can add depth of flavor and help break down the meat's fibers further.

Cutting Techniques for Skirt Steak

Once the skirt steak is ready, the meat should be grilled to a medium-rare doneness to ensure it's juicy and tender. After grilling, let it rest a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your meat even more delicious. The key to achieving the right texture is in the technique of slicing the meat.

Proper Slicing Technique

To maintain the best texture and tenderness, it's crucial to cut the skirt steak against the grain. This technique shortens the fibers, making the meat easier to chew and less tough to bite into. Here's a step-by-step guide to helping you achieve the perfect texture:

Cutting Against the Grain

1. Measure a 3-4 inch section of the meat and cut it lengthwise.

2. Now, take the meat and cut strips perpendicular to the grain. This method ensures that the meat slices will be tender and not tough.

3. If your steak is especially thick in the middle, consider bisecting it to ensure even slicing. This step is important as it helps distribute the tenderness more uniformly across the meat.

Alternative Methods for Skirt Steak

For those who prefer an even easier way, you can buy skirt steak that is already prepared and seasoned at Mexican grocery stores. The chacarera cut is a pre-marinated and cut-up version of skirt steak that's ready to fry and serve, making it ideal for last-minute cooking or for busy nights.

Whether you choose to prepare it yourself or use pre-marinated and pre-cut options, the most important step is properly cutting the meat against the grain. This technique ensures that your street tacos will be tender and enjoyable every time, adding a delightful twist to your pulled beef dishes.

Conclusion

Cutting skirt steak for street tacos is a matter of technique and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can transform a tough cut of meat into a tender, flavorful delicacy that will delight your guests and stand out as a highlight of any street food experience. Happy cooking!