A traditional Oaxacan dish — Tasajo, the salt-cured, sun-dried beef that comes from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Thin sheets of beef are salted, air-dried, then grilled over coals until charred at the edges and impossibly savory. It is the classic filling for tlayudas and tacos, served with salsa, avocado and tortillas.
Tasajo
A traditional Oaxacan dish — Tasajo, the salt-cured, sun-dried beef that comes from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.

Step by stepInstructions
- Rub the beef sheets with lime juice and crushed garlic, then season both sides generously with the coarse salt and oregano.
- Lay the salted sheets on a wire rack and air-dry in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight — this is what gives tasajo its concentrated flavor.
- Rinse the salt from the surface if it looks excessive, then pat dry.
- Grill over hot coals or on a very hot cast-iron griddle for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until charred at the edges and medium-rare inside.
- Rest for 5 minutes, slice thinly against the grain, and serve with warm tortillas, salsa and avocado.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Butterfly a thick roast into thin sheets if your butcher cannot cut them for you. The drying step is what separates tasajo from ordinary grilled beef — do not skip it.

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