authentic mexican carne asada recipe

authentic mexican carne asada recipe

The Best authentic mexican carne asada recipe

I’ve been making carne asada for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite dishes. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine, and I love how it’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that never fails to impress.

The dish originated in Mexico, where it was traditionally cooked over an open flame, giving the meat a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate with modern cooking methods. But with a few tweaks and some careful attention to detail, you can create an authentic carne asada experience at home.

When I first started making carne asada, I was amazed by how quickly it became a hit with my family. My kids would devour it in seconds, and my husband would request it for dinner every week.

I think what makes carne asada so special is the combination of tender beef, rich flavors, and the ease with which it can be prepared. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, carne asada is sure to please.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make carne asada without sacrificing flavor or quality. The key to this recipe lies in the marinade – a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices that adds depth and complexity to the dish.

By using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let the meat marinate properly, you can create a truly authentic carne asada experience at home. …

Authentic Mexican Carne Asada

Authentic Mexican Carne Asada

4.7 from 1790 votes

Carne asada is a classic Mexican dish of marinated and grilled flank or skirt steak. The citrus and spice marinade tenderizes the meat while adding bright, bold flavors.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Steak

1 1/2 pounds flank or skirt steak
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For Serving

8 small corn tortillas
1/2 cup chopped white onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Salsa verde or pico de gallo

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, jalapeno, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cilantro.
2Add the steak, seal the bag, and turn to coat.
3Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
4Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400°F to 450°F.
5Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
6Grill the steak for 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F.
7The steak should have a nice char and be firm to the touch when done.
8Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
9This allows the juices to redistribute.
10Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
11Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, until pliable and lightly charred.
12Serve the sliced steak on warm tortillas, topped with chopped onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
13Add salsa verde or pico de gallo as desired.

🔧Equipment

Large resealable bag or shallow dish
Grill or grill pan
Tongs
Cutting board
Sharp knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For best results, use flank or skirt steak and slice against the grain. Marinate longer for more tender meat. Leftover carne asada can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Authentic Mexican Carne Asada Works

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores – you can easily refrigerate leftover steak for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

When reheating your steak, simply place it on a wire rack over low heat until warmed through.

For serving ideas, try serving your steak with fresh cilantro leaves on top or alongside warm tortillas – both add a delicious contrast in texture that will elevate this dish from great to exceptional.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Carne Asada

Q: What is the best type of beef to use for carne asada?

A: For authentic Mexican carne asada, you’ll want to use thinly sliced skirt steak or fajita-cut beef. This type of meat is perfect for marinating and grilling, and it will yield the most tender and flavorful results.

Q: How do I make sure my steak doesn’t become tough or chewy?

A: To prevent your steak from becoming tough or chewy, make sure to slice it against the grain before marinating. This will help break down the fibers and ensure that your steak remains tender and easy to chew.

Q: Can I use any type of oil for marinating?

A: While you can use any type of oil for marinating, I highly recommend using avocado oil or grapeseed oil. These oils have a high smoke point and will help bring out the flavors in your marinade without adding extra calories.

Q: How do I know when my steak is cooked perfectly?

A: To check if your steak is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. You can also use the finger test by pressing the steak gently with your finger – if it feels soft but still springy, it’s done.

Q: Can I make carne asada ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to serve carne asada immediately after grilling, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

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