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Traditional Mexican taquitos made with sun‑dried beef (cecina), sautéed with onion and served in warm corn tortillas topped with a dollop of sour cream. Inspired by the rustic style of the YouTube channel elcavernicola.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Taquitos de cecina are a rustic snack from the central Mexican state of Morelos, where sun‑dried beef (cecina) has been a traditional preservation method for centuries. The Cavernícola style adds a simple, hearty preparation that reflects the region’s love for straightforward, flavorful street‑food fare.
In Morelos, cecina is often grilled and served with simple onions and lime. In the neighboring state of Puebla, it may be cooked with guajillo sauce, while in Oaxaca it can be paired with mole negro. Each region adapts the meat to local sauces and accompaniments.
Traditionally the taquitos are served hot on a wooden platter, topped with a thin layer of crema or sour cream, and accompanied by fresh lime wedges and sometimes a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. They are eaten as a snack or light meal, often with a cold cerveza.
These taquitos are popular at local festivals, family gatherings, and as street‑food during weekend markets. Because they are quick to prepare, they are also a favorite for informal celebrations like birthdays or after‑work gatherings.
The use of sun‑dried cecina gives the meat an intense, slightly smoky flavor that differs from fresh grilled meats. Combined with the simplicity of sautéed onion and a soft corn tortilla, the dish highlights the traditional preservation technique while staying easy to prepare.
Common errors include over‑cooking the cecina, which makes it tough, and burning the onion. Also, under‑warming the tortillas leads to cracking when folding. Follow the timing cues and keep the heat at medium to avoid these issues.
Medium heat allows the cecina to release its fat slowly without scorching, and it gives the onion time to soften and become translucent. High heat would burn the thin strips of cecina and create a bitter taste.
Yes, you can prepare the cecina‑onion mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Warm the mixture gently before assembling the taquitos, and keep the tortillas wrapped in a damp cloth until ready to serve.
The cecina should be lightly browned with a glossy sheen from its rendered fat, while the onion should be soft and just beginning to caramelize. The tortilla should be warm, pliable, and slightly puffed at the edges after a quick sear.
The YouTube channel elcavernicola specializes in rustic, home‑style Mexican recipes that highlight traditional ingredients and simple cooking techniques, often featuring regional specialties from central Mexico.
elcavernicola focuses on minimalistic, ingredient‑driven dishes that celebrate authentic flavors without heavy sauces, whereas many other channels emphasize elaborate presentations or fusion twists. The host often shares cultural anecdotes and cooking tips rooted in everyday Mexican households.
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