We’ve always been captivated by the vibrant flavors of La Super Rica Taqueria, a Santa Barbara gem that’s brought authentic Mexican street food to life since the 1970s. Its fresh tacos and salsas have drawn foodies from around the world, making it a must-try spot for anyone craving bold, seaside-inspired tastes.
Now we’re excited to share our take on these iconic recipes, blending tradition with easy home twists. Whether you’re grilling up carne asada or whipping fresh guacamole, these dishes promise that same irresistible charm right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
In our exploration of La Super Rica Taqueria recipes, we focus on authentic adaptations of carne asada and guacamole—dishes that capture the vibrant flavors of this Santa Barbara icon. Below, we list the ingredients as they are typically used in preparation, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
For Carne Asada
This staple features marinated grilled beef, perfect for recreating that smoky, street-food essence at home. Gather these ingredients in the order we recommend for prep:
- 2 pounds flank steak: Choose a high-quality cut with visible marbling for tenderness; trim excess fat before marinating.
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice: From about 2 limes; freshly squeezed for the brightest, zesty flavor.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Extra-virgin variety for a rich base in the marinade.
- 4 garlic cloves: Minced finely to infuse the meat with aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Toasted briefly in a dry pan for enhanced, earthy notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Kosher type for better seasoning control.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground to add a subtle kick.
- 1 medium onion: Thinly sliced for grilling alongside the steak to caramelize.
- Fresh cilantro: A handful, chopped roughly for garnish after cooking.
For Guacamole
- 3 ripe avocados: Hass variety; halve and pit them, then mash the flesh for a smooth yet chunky texture.
- 1/4 cup red onion: Finely diced for a sharp, crisp contrast.
- 2 Roma tomatoes: Seeded and chopped to avoid excess moisture in the mix.
- 1 jalapeño pepper: Minced, with seeds removed for medium heat—adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro: Chopped for a burst of herbaceous freshness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: From 1-2 limes to prevent browning and brighten the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To taste, enhancing the natural creaminess of the avocados.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a quick, convenient punch of flavor without fresh garlic overload.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our La Super Rica Taqueria recipes for carne asada and guacamole to life, we need a straightforward set of tools and equipment. Building on the ingredients we’ve outlined, these essentials ensure precise preparation and authentic results. We’ll break this down by recipe for clarity, focusing on items that enhance efficiency and flavor.
Tools for Carne Asada
For grilling and marinating this smoky steak dish, gather the following:
- Grill or grill pan: A charcoal or gas grill delivers that authentic street-food char; if indoors, use a cast-iron grill pan for even searing.
- Sharp knife: Essential for trimming and slicing flank steak; opt for a 10-inch chef’s knife to handle meat and vegetables with ease.
- Mixing bowl: A large glass or stainless-steel bowl for combining marinade ingredients like lime juice and garlic.
- Tongs: Heat-resistant tongs for flipping steak without piercing it, preserving those juicy flavors.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring olive oil, cumin, and other spices to replicate the taqueria’s balance.
Tools for Guacamole
This fresh dip requires minimal tools, emphasizing quick prep to maintain vibrant colors and tastes:
- Cutting board and knife: A sturdy wooden board paired with a sharp knife for dicing red onion, Roma tomatoes, and jalapeño.
- Mashing tool: A fork or potato masher for gently crushing ripe avocados; we prefer a fork for a chunkier texture that echoes La Super Rica’s style.
- Mixing bowl: Medium-sized for tossing all ingredients together, allowing lime juice to blend seamlessly and prevent browning.
- Citrus juicer: Optional but recommended for extracting fresh lime juice; a handheld version works wonders for efficiency.
By using these tools, we ensure our home adaptations of La Super Rica Taqueria recipes are as effortless and authentic as possible. Always prioritize safety and quality—sharp knives and reliable grills make all the difference in achieving professional results.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients and essential tools ready from the previous steps, we’re thrilled to guide you through preparing La Super Rica Taqueria’s authentic carne asada and guacamole recipes at home. These straightforward instructions ensure you capture the vibrant, smoky flavors that make these dishes iconic.
Prep
First, we prepare the carne asada by combining 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 cup chopped cilantro in a mixing bowl. Add 1.5 pounds flank steak to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
For guacamole, we start by halving 3 ripe avocados and removing the pits. Mash the avocado flesh in a mixing bowl using a mashing tool until it reaches a chunky consistency. Next, finely dice 1/2 red onion, 2 Roma tomatoes, and 1 deseeded jalapeño, then add them to the bowl along with the juice of 2 limes and a pinch of salt for that fresh, tangy kick.
Cook
We begin cooking the carne asada by preheating a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat—aim for about 400°F. Grill the marinated flank steak for 4-5 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare, allowing the meat to develop a smoky, charred exterior that evokes La Super Rica Taqueria’s street-food essence.
For guacamole, we gently stir the prepared ingredients in the bowl until well combined, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed. No cooking required here—just let the flavors meld for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to enhance the bright, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with chips or tacos.
Assemble
To assemble carne asada tacos, we slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Warm 8 corn tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side, then fill each with steak slices, a spoonful of guacamole, and optional toppings like diced onion or cilantro for a burst of authentic Mexican flavor.
For serving guacamole, we transfer it to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge. Enjoy it immediately as a dip or alongside your carne asada tacos to complete the La Super Rica Taqueria experience at your table.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you recreate the vibrant flavors of La Super Rica Taqueria’s carne asada and guacamole without last-minute rushes, we outline practical steps for preparing components in advance. This approach ensures our recipes remain fresh and authentic while saving time in the kitchen.
For Carne Asada
We recommend marinating the flank steak ahead to deepen those smoky, street-food flavors. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Marinate the steak: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro as outlined in our ingredients section. Coat a 1.5-pound flank steak thoroughly, then cover and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
- Storage tips: After marinating, if you’re not grilling immediately, store the steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the marinated steak in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling to maintain texture.
- Reheating and grilling: When ready to cook, remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes prior to grilling for even cooking. Grill as per our step-by-step instructions, aiming for a medium-rare finish to preserve juiciness.
For Guacamole
Guacamole’s fresh ingredients make it ideal for partial prep ahead, but we emphasize preventing oxidation to keep it vibrant green and flavorful.
- Prep the ingredients: Dice 1/2 red onion, 2 Roma tomatoes, and 1 jalapeño as specified in our ingredients list. Store these in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This keeps the veggies crisp and ready for quick assembly.
- Mash avocados just before serving: While you can mash 3 ripe avocados and mix in 2 tablespoons lime juice ahead of time, we advise doing this no more than 2 hours in advance to minimize browning. If preparing earlier, cover the surface with plastic wrap directly touching the guacamole and refrigerate.
To compare make-ahead storage options effectively, here’s a quick reference table:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Steak | Up to 24 hours in fridge; up to 3 months frozen | Airtight container or freezer bag | Thaw overnight for best results |
| Diced Vegetables (for guacamole) | Up to 24 hours | Airtight containers in fridge | Keep separate to avoid sogginess |
| Fully Assembled Guacamole | Up to 2 hours | Covered bowl in fridge | Add extra lime juice to preserve color |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we empower you to enjoy La Super Rica Taqueria’s authentic Mexican street food at home with ease and confidence.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on La Super Rica Taqueria’s vibrant recipes
as a way to bring authentic Mexican street food into your kitchen.
By adapting these dishes you’ll capture that fresh smoky essence right at home.
It’s all about creating memorable meals that connect us to cherished flavors
so grab your ingredients and dive in with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is La Super Rica Taqueria?
La Super Rica Taqueria is a popular Santa Barbara restaurant famous for its authentic Mexican street food since the 1970s. It’s renowned for fresh tacos, salsas, and vibrant flavors that draw food lovers worldwide. The eatery emphasizes quality ingredients and simple preparations, making it a go-to spot for genuine Mexican cuisine.
What are the key ingredients for carne asada?
For carne asada, you’ll need flank steak, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and cilantro. These ingredients create a flavorful marinade that infuses the meat with smoky, tangy notes. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste, then grill for that authentic street-food essence.
How do I make guacamole at home?
To make guacamole, mash ripe avocados and mix in diced red onion, Roma tomatoes, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. This simple recipe yields a fresh, creamy dip in minutes. Avoid over-mixing to keep it chunky, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
What tools are needed for these recipes?
For carne asada, use a grill or grill pan, sharp knife, mixing bowl, tongs, and measuring cups. For guacamole, you’ll need a cutting board, knife, mashing tool, and mixing bowl. These basic tools ensure safe, precise preparation and help achieve professional results at home.
Can I prepare carne asada and guacamole in advance?
Yes, marinate carne asada steak ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer storage. For guacamole, prep ingredients in advance but assemble just before serving to prevent browning—add lime juice to avocados to maintain freshness. This saves time while keeping flavors intact.
How do I assemble carne asada tacos?
Warm tortillas, slice grilled carne asada, and top with guacamole, fresh salsa, and cilantro. Assemble by layering steak on tortillas, add guacamole for creaminess, and garnish as desired. Serve with lime wedges for a complete, restaurant-style meal that captures La Super Rica Taqueria’s vibe.