Prepare to up your grilling game with this amazing recipe for carne asada! This traditional Mexican recipe, bursting with flavor and a tinge of smokiness, is a carnivore’s paradise. Tender beef slices are marinated to perfection and then grilled to juicy, delectable perfection, creating a savory delight with every bite.
The key is in the well-balanced combination of citrus, spices, and a tiny bit of acidity from vinegar and lime juice. Not only does this marinade give the meat a fantastic flavor, but it also tenderizes it so that every slice is bursting with flavor. This recipe for carne asada is sure to please any crowd, whether you’re having a backyard BBQ or you’re just in the mood for some real Mexican food. Prepare your grill and your stomach for a flavorful fiesta!
What is Carne Asada?
A classic Latin American meal, carne asada (which means “grilled meat” in Spanish) is especially well-liked in Mexican cooking. Usually, it’s finely sliced, flavor-bursting marinated and grilled beef. The type of meat used varies, but because flank steak and skirt steak are soft and great on the grill, like my Grilled Skirt Steak recipe, they are frequently used.
A key component of carne asada is the marinade, which is made up of a number of ingredients including vinegar, garlic, onions, cumin, chili powder, and paprika, as well as citrus juices (such as lime or orange). This marinade helps to tenderize the meat and adds a rich, tangy flavor, making the finished meal moist and tasty.
The beef is marinated and then immediately grilled over high heat, which results in a deliciously charred outside and soft interior. Tacos, burritos, salads, and even the main course with sides like rice, beans, and grilled veggies may all be made using carne asada, which is a very flexible ingredient. It is a popular choice for both casual dinners and social events due to its flavor and strong profile.
Best Carne Asada Recipe
Equipment
- Grill
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowl
- Container
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Meat thermometer
- Citrus Juicer
- Garlic Press
Ingredients
- 2 pounds skirt steak
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Whisk all ingredients together thoroughly.
Marinate the Steak:
- Place skirt steak in a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s entirely coated.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for overnight (8-12 hours) for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the Steak:
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard excess marinade.
- Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if needed (for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F or 55-57°C).
Rest and Slice:
- Once grilled, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Slice the carne asada thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Serve:
- Arrange the sliced carne asada on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and your favorite toppings. Enjoy this flavorful dish!
Notes
- Marination Magic: Marinate the meat overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Hot and Swift: Grill over high heat briefly for a nice sear while keeping it juicy.
- Slice Right: Cut the rested steak against the grain for optimal tenderness.
- Rest for Success: Allow the grilled steak to rest before slicing for juicy results.
Nutrition
NUTRITIONAL FACTS (PER SERVING)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| – Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| – Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 36g |
How Long to Grill?
It usually takes about 4–5 minutes on each side to grill skirt steak for carne asada over medium-high heat. The precise amount of time, however, can change based on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak.
Based on the thickness of the steak, below is a general guide:
- For medium-rare, shoot for 3–4 minutes per side for a skirt steak that is about ½ inch thick.
- To get the same level of doneness, thicker pieces might need to cook for an extra minute or two on each side.
To make sure the steak reaches the internal temperature you want, always use a meat thermometer. Strive for 130–135°F (55–57°C) for medium-rare. Skirt steak should never be overcooked since overcooking can make the steak tough.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions for your delicious carne asada:
