This carne asada is a tasty treat! It features juicy beef marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection. The flavor is bold and mouthwatering!
When I make this, I can’t resist having it with fresh tortillas and a bit of guacamole. It’s like a mini fiesta on my plate! 🌮💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are perfect because they’re flavorful and tender when cooked properly. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider using sirloin or even chicken for a lighter version, though it won’t have the same flavor depth.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil works great too and has a higher smoke point for grilling.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings a tangy brightness. If you can’t find limes, lemon juice is a close substitute. Just keep in mind it will taste slightly different!
Jalapeño: It adds a kick! For less heat, remove the seeds and ribs, or swap it out for a milder pepper like a poblano. If you prefer no heat at all, just leave it out.
Cilantro: It’s a classic garnish for carne asada. If you don’t like cilantro, try using parsley for a fresh touch instead.
How Can I Perfectly Marinate the Steak?
Marinating is key to flavorful carne asada. Make sure to give the steak adequate time to soak up the marinade. If you can, marinate overnight; if short on time, aim for at least 2 hours.
- Combine all your marinade ingredients in a bowl until mixed well.
- Ensure the steak is fully coated with the marinade. A resealable bag helps with distribution.
- Refrigerate it; this not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.
What’s the Best Way to Grill the Steak?
Grilling can be tricky, but it’s mainly about maintaining the right temperature and resting the meat after cooking.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan and oil it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Let the steak reach room temperature before grilling; it helps cook evenly.
- Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping only once for nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer: aim for 130°F for medium rare; always let it rest after grilling to lock in juices.
These tips and insights will make your carne asada delicious and memorable! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make 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 lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Lime wedges
- Tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this carne asada takes about 20 minutes of active work, plus at least 2 hours for marinating—overnight is even better for great flavor. After marinating, grilling will take about 15 minutes. In total, you’ll need around 2 hours and 35 minutes, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño (if using), cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This flavorful mixture will be your marinade!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a 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 with plastic wrap, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you have the time, letting it marinate overnight will pack in even more flavor!
3. Preheat Your Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will give you a nice sear on your steak.
4. Prepare the Steak for Grilling:
Take the steak out of the marinade and discard the marinade. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
5. Grill the Steak:
Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish, or until it reaches your desired doneness. A meat thermometer can help; aim for 130°F for medium rare.
6. Let it Rest:
Once done, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
7. Slice and Serve:
Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for perfect tenderness. Arrange it on a platter and garnish with the chopped cilantro and red onion.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the carne asada warm with lime wedges and tortillas for tacos. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade carne asada!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for Carne Asada?
Yes! While flank or skirt steak are traditional choices, you can also use sirloin or ribeye if those are available. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the cut. Always aim for a medium-rare doneness for the best flavor and tenderness.
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal! If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will help enhance the flavors, though longer marination will yield a more robust taste.
Can I Prepare Carne Asada in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness. Enjoy it in tacos, salads, or as a protein addition to other dishes!
