carne asada sizzles on the grill like the soundtrack to a sunlit fiesta, inviting laughter and the aroma of citrus and smoky spices. Imagine tender flank steak marinated in bright lime juice, zesty orange concentrate, garlic, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, and a dash of apple cider vinegar, then kissed by flame until charred perfection. Each slice reveals juicy ribbons of flavor, perfect for tortillas piled high with fresh pico de gallo, creamy avocado, and crisp lettuce. With every bite you’ll transport your taste buds to a backyard celebration under string lights—no passport required, just good friends and great carne asada magic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This carne asada
- Juicy, tender meat that melts in your mouth.
- Bold, zesty flavors that bring your taste buds to life.
- Perfect for gatherings, tacos, or a cozy dinner.
- Easy to customize with your favorite marinades and toppings.
carne asada
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This zesty marinade is the heart of your carne asada!
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor!
- Preheat your grill to high heat. This is where the magic happens, so get it nice and hot!
- Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the steak for 4–6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Sizzle away!
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy, tender slices!
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve hot with lime wedges and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your homemade carne asada!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 5g |
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to make the perfect carne asada at home!
- flank steak – 2 pounds, choose a good quality cut
- lime juice – 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed for best flavor
- orange juice – 1/4 cup, adds a nice sweetness
- garlic cloves – 4, minced for a robust taste
- cilantro – 1/4 cup, finely chopped for freshness
- olive oil – 2 tablespoons, to help marinate
- ground cumin – 1 teaspoon, adds earthiness
- chili powder – 1 tablespoon, for some heat
- salt – to taste, enhances flavors
- black pepper – to taste, adds a little kick
How to Make carne asada
Get ready to impress your taste buds with this amazing carne asada! With a preparation time of 10 minutes, a cooking time of 12 minutes, and a resting time of 5 minutes, you’ll be savoring delicious flavors in no time.
Step 1: Whisk the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This zesty marinade is the heart of your carne asada!
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to high heat. This is where the magic happens, so get it nice and hot!
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the steak for 4–6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Sizzle away!
Step 5: Let it Rest
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy, tender slices!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve hot with lime wedges and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your homemade carne asada!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Mexican |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 27 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Hot with lime wedges and cilantro! |
Pro Tips for Making carne asada
- Choose flank or skirt steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
- Let the meat rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
- Serve with fresh lime wedges for a zesty finish.
How to Serve this carne asada
- Serve with warm corn tortillas for delicious tacos.
- Top with fresh pico de gallo and avocado slices.
- Pair with a zesty lime crema for a creamy contrast.
- Accompany with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Serve alongside cilantro-lime rice for a hearty meal.
- Offer a side of black beans for added protein and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to store and enjoy your grilled beef later:
Storing carne asada Leftovers
- Let the grilled beef cool to room temperature.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing carne asada
- Wrap the grilled beef tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating carne asada
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
- Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.
- Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What type of meat is carne asada?
Carne asada is typically made from flank steak or skirt steak, which are both flavorful cuts of beef. These cuts are ideal for grilling due to their tenderness and ability to absorb marinades well, making them perfect for this delicious dish.
2. What is the secret ingredient in carne asada?
The secret ingredient in carne asada often lies in the marinade. A combination of citrus juices, such as lime or orange, along with garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the flavor profile. Some people also add a touch of soy sauce or vinegar for an extra depth of flavor!
3. How is carne asada supposed to be cooked?
Carne asada is best cooked on a hot grill or skillet to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s typically cooked to medium-rare, around 130-135°F (54-57°C), and should be allowed to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
4. What is carne asada marinade made of?
A classic carne asada marinade usually includes lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and fresh herbs like cilantro. Some variations might incorporate orange juice for sweetness or jalapeños for a bit of heat. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat!
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve mastered the art of carne asada, gather your loved ones and savor every bite! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of grilling at home, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations. Happy cooking!