Carne Asada, meaning “grilled meat,” is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It’s marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus juices, spices, and herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection. Serve it with tortillas, rice, beans, or your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing dish bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Ziplock bag or shallow dish
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Whisk until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan to high heat (450°F/230°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Steak:
Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
5. Rest and Slice:
Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in the juices. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
6. Serve:
Serve the carne asada with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate for at least 1 hour but no more than 8 hours to avoid over-tenderizing.
- Grill Marks: High heat creates the best char and smoky flavor on the steak.
- Slice Against the Grain: This ensures a tender and easy-to-chew steak.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy carne asada in tacos, burritos, fajitas, or simply served with rice, beans, and grilled vegetables. Top with fresh pico de gallo, avocado slices, or crumbled queso fresco.
This Carne Asada recipe delivers tender, juicy steak with bold flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a taco night, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every craving!
Carne Asada Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Ziplock bag or shallow dish
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 jalapeño minced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Whisk until well mixed.
- Marinate the Steak:
- Place the flank or skirt steak in a ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your grill or grill pan to high heat (450°F/230°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak:
- Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Rest and Slice:
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in the juices. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve:
- Serve the carne asada with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings.
Leave a Reply