This Carne Asada is a perfect balance of bold, smoky flavors from the marinade and the tenderness of perfectly grilled steak. The combination of citrusy lime and zesty chili powder in the marinade infuses the meat with a delicious kick, making it ideal for tacos, bowls, or simply served with your favorite sides.
Whether you’re enjoying this dish at a casual backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, Carne Asada never disappoints. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salsa, and a squeeze of lime to add the finishing touch of flavor. For taco nights, this dish is sure to be the star, making it a crowd favorite for any gathering.
Full Recipe:
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2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
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1/4 cup olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions:
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In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lime juice, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
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Place the steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
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Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
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Grill the steak for 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
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Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
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Serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 315 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What is Carne Asada?
Carne Asada, which translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish, is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine. It typically involves marinated beef that is grilled to perfection and often served as a filling for tacos, burritos, or on its own with a variety of sides. The most commonly used cut of beef for Carne Asada is flank steak or skirt steak due to their tenderness and ability to absorb marinades well. The dish is known for its smoky, tangy flavors, and the marinating process infuses the meat with citrus, garlic, and a mix of spices that elevate the taste.
A Brief History of Carne Asada
The origins of Carne Asada can be traced back to northern Mexico, particularly in regions such as Baja California and Sonora. In these areas, grilling beef is a long-standing tradition. While the precise origins of Carne Asada are not definitively known, it is believed to have evolved from various methods of grilling meats that indigenous people and early settlers in Mexico used. The practice of grilling beef has been deeply ingrained in Mexican culture for centuries, with Carne Asada becoming a go-to dish for gatherings, festivals, and celebrations.
In modern-day Mexico, Carne Asada is a common meal served during family cookouts, street food vendors, and restaurants. Its versatility and ease of preparation have contributed to its widespread popularity, not only in Mexico but in other parts of Latin America and the United States as well, where Mexican cuisine has influenced food culture.
Cultural Significance of Carne Asada
Carne Asada holds a special place in Mexican cuisine, especially in regions where beef is a primary protein source. It is much more than just a meal; it is a communal experience. The dish is often prepared during gatherings such as barbecues or “asados,” where friends and family come together to enjoy good food and each other’s company. The ritual of marinating, grilling, and sharing Carne Asada enhances the social aspect of the meal.
In Mexican culture, Carne Asada is synonymous with celebrations, be it a family reunion, a wedding, or a festive holiday. It’s commonly served with sides like grilled onions, salsa, guacamole, and tortillas, making it a dish that can be easily shared among a group. For many, Carne Asada is a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and the importance of family.
The Art of Grilling Carne Asada
Grilling Carne Asada is an art form that requires attention to detail. The key to a perfectly grilled Carne Asada lies in the marinade and grilling technique. A well-balanced marinade is essential to tenderizing the meat while adding layers of flavor. Typically, the marinade for Carne Asada contains a combination of citrus juices (lime and/or lemon), vinegar, garlic, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. This marinade not only enhances the meat’s flavor but also ensures that the steak remains juicy and tender.
Once the steak has been marinated for a few hours (or overnight for more flavor), it’s time to grill. The steak should be grilled over high heat, which gives it a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender. It’s essential to avoid overcooking the meat, as this can lead to dryness. For the best results, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness, which will ensure the steak remains juicy.
Resting the meat after grilling is another important step in preparing Carne Asada. Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more flavorful and tender. When slicing, it’s important to cut against the grain, as this will help break down the muscle fibers and result in a more tender bite.
Serving Carne Asada
Carne Asada is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. The most popular way to enjoy this dish is by serving it in tacos or burritos. In tacos, it is typically paired with fresh cilantro, diced onions, a squeeze of lime, and salsa for a burst of flavor. Additionally, Carne Asada can be served as part of a larger platter with rice, beans, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad.
Another great way to enjoy Carne Asada is by adding it to a bowl with rice, avocado, and a variety of toppings such as grilled peppers, onions, and jalapeños. This makes for a satisfying and healthy meal that can be customized based on personal preferences.
For a more casual approach, Carne Asada is often served with tortillas on the side, allowing people to create their own tacos at the table. This interactive aspect of the meal adds to the communal experience that Carne Asada is known for.
Tips for Perfect Carne Asada
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Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the meat, the more flavorful it will be. Aim to marinate your Carne Asada for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will yield even better results.
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Use High Heat for Grilling: Make sure your grill is preheated to high heat before placing the meat on it. This ensures a nice sear and helps lock in the juices.
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Don’t Overcook: Overcooking Carne Asada will result in dry meat. To ensure it’s tender and juicy, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness.
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Rest the Meat: Let your Carne Asada rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and results in a more flavorful and tender bite.
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Slice Against the Grain: Always slice Carne Asada against the grain. This helps break up the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Carne Asada
Carne Asada is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re grilling it for a casual family meal or serving it at a large gathering, Carne Asada has the power to transform any occasion into a celebration. The smoky, tangy flavors, combined with the tender meat, make it a dish that will always remain a staple in Mexican cuisine. The versatility of Carne Asada ensures that it can be enjoyed in many ways, from tacos to bowls to salads, making it a dish that never goes out of style. It’s a simple yet deeply flavorful meal that showcases the rich traditions and vibrant culture of Mexico.
With its bold flavors and communal nature, Carne Asada will continue to be a beloved dish for generations to come.