Carne Asada is a classic Mexican dish featuring marinated and grilled steak, known for its bold flavors and tender texture. Typically made with flank or skirt steak, this dish is infused with a citrusy, garlic-rich marinade and grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, charred exterior and juicy interior. It is commonly served with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and fresh lime wedges for an authentic experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: The marinade deeply penetrates the meat, delivering a rich, smoky, and tangy taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward grilling process make this recipe accessible to home cooks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in tacos, burritos, salads, or alongside rice and beans.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Carne Asada is a great dish for barbecues, family dinners, or festive occasions.
- Customizable: Adjust the marinade to your taste by adding more spice, citrus, or herbs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Flank or skirt steak
- Orange juice
- Lime juice
- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Cilantro, chopped
- Jalapeño, finely chopped
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Rest the Steak: Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, or your preferred sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for more heat.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon juice or zest for a slightly different citrusy flavor.
- Oven-Broiled Option: If you do not have a grill, broil the steak in the oven for about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Herb-Infused: Add oregano or thyme for an herbal touch.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or grill over charcoal for an extra smoky aroma.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the steak in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
FAQs
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for well-done.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, while flank and skirt steak are traditional, sirloin or ribeye can also be used.
What can I serve with carne asada?
It pairs well with tortillas, rice, beans, grilled vegetables, salsa, and guacamole.
Can I cook carne asada on a stovetop?
Yes, use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.
How long should I marinate the steak?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Can I make carne asada ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the steak in advance and grill it just before serving.
Can I use bottled lime and orange juice?
Fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
How do I keep the steak from drying out?
Do not overcook it, and let it rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Is carne asada spicy?
It has a mild heat from jalapeños and chili powder, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.
What is the best way to slice carne asada?
Always slice against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew pieces.
Conclusion
Carne Asada is a delicious and versatile dish perfect for grilling season or any time you crave a flavorful steak. With a well-balanced marinade and proper grilling technique, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Print
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, flavorful grilled steak marinated in citrus and spices.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate steak in lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices for 2 hours.
- Grill over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Let rest before slicing. Serve with tortillas or rice.
Notes
- Use skirt steak for a more tender cut.
- Serve with fresh salsa or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: 20 minutes