Barbecue - Street Tacos for Cinco de Mayo

Rees Walther
Apr 29
3 min read

Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of culture, heritage, and community. While often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, the holiday actually commemorates the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 (sorry, that's the history teacher in me coming out. I'll stop). Today, it’s a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy great food, and appreciate the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. And what better way to celebrate than with delicious barbecue street tacos?

Why Barbecue Street Tacos?

Street tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, known for their bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and simplicity. When paired with the deep, smoky richness of barbecue, they become something truly special. The combination of tender, smoked meats, charred tortillas, and vibrant toppings creates a mouthwatering dish perfect for any Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Choosing the Right Meat

Barbecue street tacos can be made with a variety of smoked meats. Here are some excellent options:

1. Smoked Beef Birria

A slow-smoked take on the traditional birria, this dish features beef marinated in a rich blend of dried chilies, garlic, cumin, and spices before being smoked to perfection. Serve it with warm corn tortillas and a side of consommé for dipping.

2. Smoked Carnitas (Pulled Pork)

Carnitas are traditionally cooked low and slow in their own fat, but smoking them adds an extra layer of depth. Season pork shoulder with citrus, oregano, and garlic before smoking until fork-tender. Shred it and crisp it up on a griddle for an irresistible taco filling.

3. Smoked Chicken Tinga

This classic dish gets a smoky twist with chicken slow-smoked over cherry or mesquite wood before being simmered in a tomato-chipotle sauce. The result is a juicy, flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with warm tortillas.

4. Smoked Brisket Tacos

Brisket tacos are a fusion of Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican flavors. Smoked low and slow, then sliced or chopped, brisket makes for a hearty, flavor-packed taco.

Toppings and Salsas

The best street tacos come to life with the right toppings. Here are some must-haves:

Fresh Pico de Gallo – Chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños.
Fire-Roasted Salsa – Blend charred tomatoes, garlic, onions, and chili peppers for a smoky salsa.
Avocado Crema – A creamy blend of avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and garlic.
Pickled Red Onions – Tangy and slightly sweet, these add crunch and color to any taco.
Cotija Cheese – A crumbly, salty cheese that complements smoky meats.
Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges – A final squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro bring everything together.

Perfect Side Dishes

To round out your Cinco de Mayo feast, consider serving these traditional sides:

Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder.
Smoky Charro Beans – Pinto beans simmered with bacon, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa – Sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy, perfect for balancing the richness of the tacos.
Crispy Chicharrones – A crunchy, salty snack to enjoy between bites.

Drinks to Pair with Your Tacos

No Cinco de Mayo feast is complete without the perfect beverage. Here are a few ideas:

Mexican beer - The obvious choice with tacos. Be sure to add a slice of lime.
Horchata – A refreshing, cinnamon-spiced rice milk drink.
Agua Fresca – Light fruit-infused beverages like watermelon, hibiscus, or mango.
Classic Margaritas – A blend one can of frozen limeade, tequila, and orange liqueur.
Smoky Mezcal Cocktails – Mezcal’s deep, smoky flavor pairs beautifully with barbecue tacos.

Final Thoughts

Cinco de Mayo is about more than just great food—it’s about bringing people together in celebration. Barbecue street tacos are the perfect way to honor the day, combining bold flavors, slow-smoked meats, and fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard fiesta or simply making a meal for family, these tacos are sure to be a hit.

So fire up the smoker, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a feast that celebrates both tradition and the joy of good food. ¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!