What is carne asada and how is it traditionally prepared?

Carne asada translates to "grilled meat" in Spanish and refers to beef that is marinated and cooked over high heat, often on a grill or grill pan. The process typically involves marinating the meat with ingredients like lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and spices to tenderize and add flavor. The meat is then seared quickly to develop a charred, smoky crust while keeping the inside tender. Carne asada is commonly served sliced and used in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish with sides.

Which cuts of beef work best for making carne asada?

The most popular cuts for carne asada are flank steak and skirt steak due to their flavor and texture. Both come from the abdominal area and are known for their rich beefy taste and fibrous texture. Sirloin and tenderloin can also be used, but flank and skirt steaks are preferred because they take on marinades well and develop a nice char when grilled. For best results, slice the meat thinly against the grain after cooking to enhance tenderness.

How can I marinate carne asada to get the best flavor?

A simple marinade for carne asada usually includes citrus juice (such as lime or orange), garlic, cilantro, salt, pepper, and sometimes chili powder or cumin. The acid in citrus helps tenderize the meat, while herbs and spices add depth of flavor. Marinate the meat for at least 1-2 hours, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator. Avoid over-marinating to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.

Can carne asada be cooked without a grill?

Yes, carne asada can be cooked without a grill by using a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or broiler. Preheat the pan or broiler to high heat, and cook the marinated steak quickly on each side to get a good sear and charred exterior. Using a cast-iron skillet will help replicate the grill marks and intense heat needed for authentic texture and flavor.

What are some common ways to serve carne asada?

Carne asada is versatile and often served as tacos with corn or flour tortillas, topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa. It can also be served as a main course alongside rice, beans, grilled vegetables, or guacamole. In addition, carne asada can be chopped and added to burritos or quesadillas, making it a popular choice for Mexican-inspired meals.

Carne Asada Recipe With Authentic Flavors And Simple Steps

Name: Carne Asada
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: – 2 pounds skirt steak trimmed of excess fat; – 1 minced and seeded jalapeno; – 4 cloves minced garlic; – 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves; – Juice of 1 orange; – Juice of 1 lime; – Juice of 1 lemon; – 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; – 1/3 cup olive oil; – 1 teaspoon ground cumin; – 1 teaspoon kosher salt; – 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Description

🥩 Enjoy a vibrant and flavorful Carne Asada with a zesty marinade that tenderizes the skirt steak beautifully.
🍋 This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that deliver authentic Mexican flavors right at home.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds skirt steak trimmed of excess fat

– 1 minced and seeded jalapeno

– 4 cloves minced garlic

– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

– Juice of 1 orange

– Juice of 1 lime

– Juice of 1 lemon

– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

– 1/3 cup olive oil

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon kosher salt

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1-Trim the excess fat: from 2 pounds of skirt steak and place it in a large glass dish.

2-Mix together: 1 minced and seeded jalapeno, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro leaves, juice of 1 orange, juice of 1 lime, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1/3 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to create the marinade.

3-Pour the marinade: over the steak, turn it to coat thoroughly, and refrigerate for 1 to 8 hours.

4-Preheat the grill: to medium-high heat.

5-Grill the steak: for 7 to 10 minutes per side for medium-rare.

6-Let the steak rest: for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

Notes

🌶 Adjust the jalapeno according to your spice preference to control heat.
🥩 For increased tenderness and flavor, marinate the steak overnight.
🔥 Always let the grilled steak rest before slicing to keep the juices locked in.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (up to 8 hours)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of prepared steak
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: Carne Asada, Skirt Steak, Mexican Grilling, Authentic Marinade