This carne asada is full of flavor, thanks to tender beef marinated in spices and citrus. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying on its own!
Trust me, the smell of this sizzling on the grill will make your neighbors jealous! 🌮 I love serving it with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime for that extra zing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are great for carne asada due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked right. If you can’t find these, try hanger steak or even chicken thighs for a different twist.
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh is key for brightness in flavor! If you’re pressed for time, bottled lime juice works, but I find fresh really makes a difference and brings out the other flavors.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives a stronger flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, but I’d stick with fresh whenever possible to enhance the taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a great vibrant taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions can work as alternatives, just keep in mind they change the flavor profile a bit!
Spices: The cumin and smoked paprika are fantastic for depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika and a pinch of smoked salt can be a nice stand-in.
How Do I Ensure My Steak is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that perfect cook on your steak is crucial! Here are a few tips to help you out:
- Always let the steak come to room temperature before grilling (about 15 minutes). This helps it cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill allows for a nice sear and enhances flavor.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side. To know it’s done, you can use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest for 10 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- Slice against the grain to ensure each piece is tender. It makes a big difference in texture!
The Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- Corn tortillas
- Diced red onion
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This carne asada recipe requires about 15 minutes of active preparation time and at least 2 hours for marinating (preferably overnight for better flavor). Plus, you will need about 15 minutes for grilling and resting the steak. In total, expect to invest around 2 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, soy sauce, chopped cilantro, black pepper, and salt. This marinade will give your steak a burst of flavor!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak into 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 refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you want that deep flavor.
3. Grill the Steak:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Take the steak out of the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly. Grill the steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on how you like it cooked (medium-rare is usually the way to go!).
4. Let It Rest and Slice:
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This is super important because it keeps the juices inside. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and juicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious carne asada warm! Top it with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and lime wedges on the side. Don’t forget the warm corn tortillas! If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Enjoy your homemade feast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank and skirt steak are traditional choices for carne asada, you can also use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a variation. Just note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type of meat, so keep an eye on it to achieve your preferred doneness.
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight in the fridge will deepen the flavors even more. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours as the acidity in the marinade can start to break down the meat too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible to prevent drying out the meat; instead, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly on the grill until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This way, you can enjoy delicious carne asada without any gluten concerns!
