Alebrije: Where Griddle’s Glow Meets Taco Glory

Origins in the Griddle: Alebrije and its Vibrant Asada Taco

Imagine the vibrant and eclectic culinary scene of Nashville, a city that embraces both its musical roots and a growing appreciation for globally-inspired flavors. The story of Alebrije in Nashville tells a tale of a modern Mexican restaurant where traditional flavors meet contemporary flair.

Alebrije isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Mexican culinary artistry, a place where the vibrant and diverse flavors of Mexico are presented with a modern twist. The name itself, inspired by the colorful and fantastical creatures of Mexican folk art, hints at Alebrije’s dedication to creating a unique and memorable dining experience. The ambiance is stylish and inviting, a space where you can savor both traditional and innovative Mexican cuisine.

During my visit, I had the distinct pleasure of experiencing their Asada Taco, a dish that perfectly embodies Alebrije’s approach. It wasn’t just a simple taco; it was a symphony of textures and flavors. The perfectly grilled asada, expertly prepared, provided a rich and savory base. The accompanying elements, thoughtfully chosen and prepared, created a harmonious and unforgettable culinary experience.

Savoring that Asada Taco at Alebrije, I understood that Alebrije is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience the art of Mexican cuisine in a modern and exciting way. It’s about respecting tradition while embracing innovation, and creating dishes that are both comforting and adventurous. Alebrije’s origin likely lies in the vision of its creators to establish a restaurant that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to Nashville, a city that appreciates culinary artistry and bold flavors. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Mexican cuisine and its ability to create memorable dining experiences.

If you’re looking for a taste of Mexico in a stylish and inviting setting in Nashville, Alebrije is a destination that should be at the top of your list. It’s a place where you can enjoy delicious and inventive dishes, a true gem in Nashville’s diverse culinary landscape.

Bringing the Mexican Griddle Home: Your Own Asada Taco

To capture the vibrant, savory essence of Alebrije’s celebrated Asada Taco in your own kitchen, begin with the high-quality steak and fresh tortillas, and a touch of griddle-kissed inspiration. This culinary journey celebrates the simple beauty of Mexican street food, much like the authentic ethos at Alebrije.

Embarking on this endeavor is a lesson in appreciating the inherent richness of a perfectly grilled steak and the warm, comforting embrace of a fresh tortilla. Focus on the gentle searing process that unlocks the steak’s savory depths. Start by selecting a good cut of asada and fresh corn tortillas, the foundation of this delightful taco.

Consider incorporating elements that reflect Alebrije’s focus on highlighting the best of Mexican tradition. A simple marinade with lime and spices will enhance the inherent flavors and bring out their natural character. The key is to let the quality of the meat be the star.

Pay close attention to the grilling process, allowing the steak to develop a beautiful sear while maintaining its tenderness. The warming of the tortillas should release their fragrant corn aroma. The aroma filling your kitchen will be a testament to the simple yet profound transformation of quality ingredients.

As you prepare this vibrant dish, you’ll appreciate the ease and satisfaction of creating something both delicious and authentic. It’s a celebration of classic Mexican flavors, minimal fuss, and the pure pleasure of enjoying a simply prepared yet flavorful taco, inspired by the artistry of Alebrije.

Chef’s Notes: Grilled Steak Tacos

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor – For the best flavor, marinate the steak for several hours or overnight to allow the seasoning to penetrate deeply. This will enhance the richness of the meat.
• Rest the Steak – After grilling, allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures tender, flavorful slices.
• Warm Tortillas – Lightly warming the tortillas in a skillet or on the grill will enhance their flavor and flexibility, making them easier to fill without tearing.
• Customize Toppings – Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Grilled peppers, onions, or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish further.
• Thin Slices – Slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
• Cotija Cheese – Crumbled cotija adds a tangy and salty punch, but if it’s unavailable, crumbled feta can serve as a good substitute.
• Avocado Texture – To achieve the perfect creamy texture, make sure your avocados are fully ripe and mash them gently for smoothness.
• Taco Assembly – Don’t skimp on the lime squeeze at the end—it’s a game-changer in brightening the flavors!

Grilled Steak Tacos

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Elevate your taco nights with these irresistibly tender grilled steak tacos that burst with flavor in every bite. Expertly grilled marinated steak, combined with creamy avocado, crumbled cotija, zesty diced onion, and vibrant cilantro, creates an explosion of taste perfect for outdoor gatherings or an exciting twist on dinner parties. This recipe, designed with simplicity and flair, offers a gourmet finish that’s light on prep yet big on impact. Enjoy a culinary journey that feels both luxurious and accessible!

Course: Main CourseCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

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Servings

4

tacos

Prep time

2

hours 

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

515

kcal

Total time

2

hours 

10

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• Protein

• 1 lb premium flank steak marinated and grilled to a delicious medium-rare finish, then thinly sliced against the grain

• Creamy Base

• 2 ripe avocados halved, pitted and softly mashed until velvety

• Cheesy Accent

• 3 tbsp crumbled cotija cheese for a salty, tangy burst

• Crunch Element

• 1/3 cup finely diced white onion adding a crisp bite

• Herbaceous Touch

• 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro to brighten the dish

• Tortilla Wraps

• 4 small corn tortillas warmed to perfection

• Zesty Finish

• 2 medium limes quartered for a generous squeeze over the assembled tacos

• Alternative Ingredients

• Carne asada substitute: Use flank steak if carne asada isn’t available

• Avocado replacement: Mashed cucumber can mimic a creamy texture for those avoiding avocado

• Cotija cheese alternative: Crumbled feta cheese works well if cotija is hard to find

• Onion swap: Finely chopped shallots offer a milder flavor compared to white onion

• Cilantro option: Fresh parsley can replace cilantro for a different herbal note

• Tortillas substitute: Lettuce wraps or gluten-free tortillas can be used for dietary needs

• Lime alternative: Fresh lemon juice can provide a similar citrus zing

Directions

• Grill Slice – Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat; place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Allow the meat to rest briefly after grilling, then slice it thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness. This method not only locks in the juices but also ensures each slice is perfectly tender for your tacos.
• Assemble Garnish – In a small bowl, gently mash the ripe avocados until smooth and generously spread the mixture over each warm tortilla. Layer the thinly sliced steak atop the avocado, then evenly distribute crumbled cotija cheese, diced onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro over the top. Finally, finish each taco with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors; for an extra touch, optionally warm the tortillas in a skillet for an additional 1 minute per side.

Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• Citrus Juicer

Notes

• For best results, allow the steak to marinate for several hours or overnight to deeply infuse the flavors before grilling. Ensure you let the meat rest after grilling to maintain its juiciness and tenderness. Consider serving these tacos alongside a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salsa; adding grilled peppers or onions can also provide an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Enjoy experimenting with your preferred garnishes to create a memorable meal!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 515kcal
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 202mg
• Potassium: 450mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Vitamin A: 300IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 4mg

FAQs: Grilled Steak Tacos

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