The Matador Taco from Torchy's Tacos features tender grilled steak, fresh avocado slices, tangy pico de gallo, and spicy jalapenos wrapped in a warm, soft corn tortilla, delivering a bold and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal with a perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and zesty tastes.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Citrus juicer (optional, for pico de gallo)
- Serving plate
- Taco holders or parchment/wax paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 medium avocados
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 lime
Choosing fresh, ripe avocados is crucial for achieving the creamy texture that balances the Matador Taco's bold flavors. Use flank steak with good marbling to ensure tenderness and flavor when grilled. Fresh jalapenos should be handled carefully to control the taco's heat level according to your preference. Pico de gallo made with freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the overall zestiness and freshness of the taco. You can recreate the Matador Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu perfectly by focusing on the quality and freshness of these key ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan.
- Brush flank steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill steak to desired doneness; set aside to rest.
- Slice jalapeños into thin rings.
- In a mixing bowl, prepare pico de gallo (if not ready-made) using citrus juicer for lime juice if needed.
- Slice avocados.
- Warm corn tortillas on the grill or pan.
- Slice rested steak thinly against the grain.
- Assemble tacos: place steak, avocado slices, pico de gallo, and jalapeño rings on each tortilla.
- Squeeze lime over tacos.
- Serve on a plate with taco holders or parchment/wax paper if desired.
Substitution
The Matador Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu showcases grilled flank steak paired with creamy avocado and fresh pico de gallo inside a soft corn tortilla. If flank steak is unavailable, skirt steak or sirloin can be used as flavorful alternatives without compromising texture. When fresh jalapenos are too spicy or hard to find, milder poblano peppers or pickled jalapenos provide a good substitute. Your homemade pico de gallo can be adjusted by adding diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to taste, enhancing freshness and acidity. To warm the tortillas evenly, use a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel if a grill pan is not accessible.
Tips
When grilling the flank steak, ensure it rests for at least 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices and improve tenderness. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and enhance each bite's texture. Warm the corn tortillas just before assembling to prevent them from breaking and to enhance flavor. Use fresh lime juice squeezed from the citrus juicer directly onto the pico de gallo or tacos to brighten the flavors and balance the spice.
Nutritions
The Matador Taco provides a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber thanks to its 12 oz grilled flank steak and nutrient-rich avocados. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free, low-fat carbohydrate source with essential minerals like magnesium. Fresh pico de gallo and jalapenos contribute antioxidants, vitamin C, and a metabolism-boosting kick without adding many calories. Your meal delivers satisfying nutrition ideal for muscle maintenance and heart health while keeping bold Mexican flavors front and center.
Storage
Store leftover Matador Taco components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess, especially keeping the grilled steak and pico de gallo chilled at or below 40degF (4degC). Wrap avocados tightly in plastic wrap with a slight coating of lime juice to slow oxidation and keep them from browning. Warm tortillas can be stacked between layers of parchment paper and stored in a resealable bag at room temperature or refrigerated to retain softness for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap flank steak with skirt steak or carne asada to enhance the beefy flavor and tenderness. You can replace corn tortillas with flour tortillas or lettuce leaves for a different texture or a low-carb option. Consider roasting or pickling the jalapenos to add a smoky or tangy twist, which complements the creamy avocado well. To amplify the pico de gallo's zest, add a pinch of cumin or fresh cilantro, adjusting to your taste.
Allergies
The Matador Taco contains common allergens such as avocados, which can cause reactions in individuals sensitive to latex-fruit syndrome, and jalapenos that may trigger oral allergy symptoms for some. The corn tortillas may be a concern for those with corn allergies or celiac disease, so verifying gluten content is important. You should always check with your healthcare provider if you have known allergies to ingredients like beef, avocado, or peppers before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Matador Taco from Torchy's Tacos features a mouthwatering combination of grilled steak, avocado, cheddar jack cheese, and jalapenos, creating a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors. Its bold taste profile and high-quality ingredients make it a fan favorite for those seeking a satisfying and flavorful taco experience. You'll find making a copycat Matador Taco a rewarding culinary challenge that delivers authentic Tex-Mex taste right at home. Recreating this iconic dish allows you to enjoy the specialty's signature flavor while tailoring the spice level and ingredients to your preference.