This carne asada is all about juicy, flavorful grilled beef that’s marinated to perfection. The spices really bring it to life, making each bite so tasty and satisfying!
You can easily serve it in tacos or with rice and beans for a fun meal. I love to pile on the toppings like avocado and salsa—who can resist a delicious fiesta on a plate? 🌮🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are perfect for carne asada, known for their flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, try sirloin or even chicken for a lighter option.
Lime and Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juices add the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works, but it won’t be as bright. Try substituting vinegar for a tangy kick.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding soy, use coconut aminos for a similar taste with lower sodium.
Cilantro: It’s key for garnish, giving freshness. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley can also add a nice touch.
How Can You Make Sure Your Steak is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling the carne asada just right can be tricky, but here are some tips! First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to create a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give the steak space for even cooking.
- After grilling, resting the meat is essential; it helps retain juices. Wait 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Always cut against the grain to ensure tender slices!
The Best Carne Asada Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- Lime wedges
- Corn or flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious carne asada recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but letting it sit overnight is best for flavor. After that, cooking the steak will only take about 15 minutes. So, plan on around 2 hours and 30 minutes total (including marinating time) to enjoy this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. This will create a tasty marinade that will infuse the steak with flavor!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Now, take your flank or skirt steak and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can, leave it overnight for the best flavor!
3. Prep for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, take the steak out of the fridge. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. This will help it grill better!
4. Grill the Steak:
It’s time to grill! Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you have a meat thermometer, check for 130-135°F for that perfect doneness. If you like it more cooked, leave it on a bit longer.
5. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked to your liking, take the steak off the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is important because it helps the juices stay locked in. After resting, slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips—this helps make it tender when you eat it!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your wonderful carne asada! Arrange the sliced steak on a platter and sprinkle with the chopped cilantro and diced red onion for some extra flavor and color. Serve with lime wedges and warm tortillas on the side. Dig in, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak is traditional, you can experiment with other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a variation. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut used, so always check your meat’s internal temperature!
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For best results, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal as it allows the flavors to really soak in. If short on time, even 30 minutes will add some flavor, but it won’t be as intense.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep the marinade and marinate the steak a day ahead. Just wrap the marinated steak tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This prep saves time and enhances the flavor!
How to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat or pop it in the microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Enjoy it in tacos, salads, or just on its own!
