carne asada marinade recipe

carne asada marinade recipe

The Best carne asada marinade recipe

I’ve been making carne asada for years, and it’s a staple in our household. This marinade recipe is a game-changer, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s known as ‘carne asada,’ which translates to ‘grilled meat.’ It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner.

The key to this recipe is the marinade, which is made with a combination of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices. The acidity in the lime juice helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it tender and juicy.

I love that this recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthy, with minimal added sugars and no artificial preservatives. My kids adore helping me prepare the marinade and then watching the meat sizzle on the grill.

It’s a fun and interactive process that they look forward to every time we have carne asada. The best part?

This recipe is incredibly versatile – you can serve it with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or even use it as a topping for tacos. My family loves when I make this recipe because it’s always a hit, and I’m confident you’ll feel the same way once you try it out.

Classic Carne Asada Marinade

Classic Carne Asada Marinade

4.6 from 896 votes

This marinade infuses flank or skirt steak with bright citrus, garlic, and smoky chiles. It tenderizes the meat while adding deep savory flavor for grilling.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, and minced chipotle pepper until well combined.
2Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring the marinade is balanced between tangy and savory.
3Place 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of flank or skirt steak in a large resealable plastic bag or glass dish.
4Pour the marinade over the meat, seal the bag or cover the dish, and turn to coat evenly.
5Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 8 hours for best flavor penetration.
6Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature.
7Preheat a grill or grill pan to high heat, around 450°F to 500°F, and lightly oil the grates.
8Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and discard the used marinade.
9Grill the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F and the exterior is charred and caramelized.
10Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
11Slice thinly against the grain and serve immediately in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Large resealable plastic bag or glass dish
Grill or grill pan
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a milder heat, reduce or omit the chipotle pepper. Always slice the cooked steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Watch Video Of How Classic Carne Asada Marinade Works

This carne asada marinade recipe is a staple in our household because of its simplicity and versatility. We love serving it with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a quick weeknight dinner.

For special occasions like family gatherings or holidays, we like to add some extra flair by serving it with homemade tortillas or fresh salsa. Whatever way you choose to enjoy it, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Asada Marinade

Q: What type of meat should I use for carne asada?

You can use either flank steak or skirt steak for this recipe. Both options will yield delicious results, but flank steak tends to be leaner and more tender.

Q: How long should I marinate the meat?

For optimal results, marinate the meat for at least 2 hours or overnight. However, if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will still yield decent results.

Q: Can I use this marinade for other types of meat?

While this marinade is specifically designed for beef, you can experiment with other types of meat like chicken or pork.

Q: How do I store leftover carne asada?

Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat carne asada in the microwave?

No, reheating carne asada in the microwave can result in overcooking and dryness. Instead, reheat it on the stovetop or grill over low heat until warmed through.

Similar Posts