Carne Asada is a popular dish that features thinly sliced, marinated steak cooked to perfection. The marinade infuses the meat with a burst of savory and tangy flavors, while the grilling process adds a smoky and charred touch. The result is tender and juicy steak with a mouthwatering combination of spices and herbs. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a flavorful meal that transports you to the streets of Mexico. Let’s begin!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes + 15 minutes of marinating time
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 35-37 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk the marinade until well combined.
- Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Grill the steak for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (55-57°C).
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve the Carne Asada on warm tortillas or as a main course alongside rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Don’t forget to let the steak rest after grilling. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender meat. Serve your Carne Asada with warm tortillas, traditional Mexican condiments like salsa, guacamole, and pico de gallo, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrusy freshness. Consider grilling some veggies alongside the steak to create delicious fajitas or a colorful topping for your tacos.
Chef’s tip: Don’t limit yourself to just tacos. Use the Carne Asada as a filling for burritos, quesadillas, or even on top of a hearty salad.
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
