Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is a flavorful and juicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe takes flank steak and transforms it into a tender delight through a delicious marinade and spice rub. Ideal for tacos, burritos, or even salads, Carne Asada is great for gatherings and can be made at home with ease. Enjoy the rich flavors and versatility of this classic Mexican dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines citrus juices and spices to create a depth of flavor that elevates the steak.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality Carne Asada right at home.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for tacos, burritos, or just on its own; this dish suits any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties or family dinners, and watch everyone rave about it!
• Budget-Friendly: Making Carne Asada at home saves money while still delivering gourmet taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Carne Asada Steak, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large freezer bag
• Small plastic bag or sealable container
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat for achieving that perfect sear and char on the meat.
• Large freezer bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly to create a well-combined marinade.

Ingredients

Carne Asada marinated and spice rubbed for the most juicy, tender, flavorful Carne Asada EVER! This Carne Asada recipe is perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, salads, etc. at a fraction of the price and fabulous for crowds!

For the Marinade

• 1 1/2 – 2 pounds flank steak, pounded thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke

For the Spice Rub

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon EACH salt, chili powder, onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH pepper, cayenne pepper

For Garnish

• your favorite cheese (I like cheddar/cotija combo)
• Recipe 5 Minute Blender Tomatillo Avocado Ranch
• Recipe 5 Minute Fire Roasted Restaurant Blender Salsa
• pico de gallo
• sour cream
• guacamole
• lettuce
• tomato
• Recipe Grilled Pineapple Salsa
• Recipe Mexican Street Fries

How to Make Carne Asada Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

Add all spice rub ingredients into a small plastic bag or sealable container. Whisk them together until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

In a large freezer bag, combine all marinade ingredients. Whisk until mixed thoroughly. Add 3 tablespoons of Spice Mix into the marinade and stir again. Place flank steak in the bag; seal while removing excess air. Refrigerate for 4-12 hours.

Step 3: Create Spice Rub

When ready to grill, mix remaining Spice Mix with 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl to form a paste-like consistency.

Step 4: Prepare the Steak

Remove steak from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Apply Spice Rub evenly over both sides of the steak. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before grilling.

Step 5: Grill

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill steak for about 5-6 minutes per side or until an internal thermometer reads between 130-135°F for medium rare or around 140°F for medium doneness.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once grilled to your liking, remove steak from heat. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain on a diagonal. Enjoy your Carne Asada Steak!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve this flavorful meat.

Tacos

• Use warm corn or flour tortillas, fill them with sliced Carne Asada, and top with fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cheese for a classic taco experience.

Burritos

• Wrap the seasoned steak in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a hearty burrito that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with slices of Carne Asada, melted cheese, jalapeños, and avocado. Serve hot with salsa and sour cream on the side for a tasty snack or appetizer.

Salads

• Slice the grilled steak thinly and add it to a bed of leafy greens. Top with tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying salad packed with flavor.

Quesadillas

• Fill tortillas with Carne Asada and cheese before grilling until crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Sandwiches

• Create a hearty sandwich by layering sliced Carne Asada on crusty bread along with avocado, lettuce, and a spicy mayo or aioli for an amazing flavor combination.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

To achieve the best Carne Asada Steak, follow these essential tips that enhance flavors and ensure tenderness.

• Marinate Long Enough: Allowing the steak to marinate for 4-12 hours helps infuse it with flavor while tenderizing the meat.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat sears the exterior quickly while keeping the inside juicy. Aim for medium-high heat on your grill.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the steak rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute. This prevents dryness when you slice it.
• Cut Against the Grain: Always slice against the grain of the meat. This technique shortens muscle fibers and results in more tender bites.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices in your marinade for maximum flavor impact instead of relying on dried versions.
• Experiment with Variations: Try different marinades or spice blends like chipotle or citrus variations to keep your Carne Asada exciting.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pair your Carne Asada Steak with delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice brings vibrant flavors to your meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a comforting side that balances the boldness of your steak perfectly.
3. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds color and flavor while soaking up juices from the Carne Asada.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender make for a healthy addition to your plate.
5. Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole offers creaminess and zest that pairs wonderfully with seasoned meat.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness to each bite.
7. Chips & Salsa: Crisp tortilla chips served alongside homemade salsa create a fun appetizer or snack option before diving into your main dish.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish is light yet flavorful – perfect for balancing out heavier components on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Carne Asada Steak, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of this delicious dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating is crucial for infusing flavor into the steak. Don’t skimp on marinating time; aim for at least 4 hours for optimal taste.
• Using the wrong cut of meat: Not all cuts work well for Carne Asada. Flank or skirt steak is ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts, as they won’t yield the same results.
• Not resting the meat: Cutting into your steak right off the grill can cause juices to escape. Always let the carne asada rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to maintain its juiciness.
• Grilling at incorrect temperatures: Cooking your steak at too low a temperature can lead to a dry outcome. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for a perfect sear.
• Failing to slice against the grain: Slicing with the grain can create chewy pieces of meat. Always slice against the grain for tender bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Carne Asada Steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Wrap the carne asada tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight freezer bag, where it will be good for up to 3 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Quickly warm slices for about 1-2 minutes on each side, being careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada Steak refers to grilled beef, typically flank or skirt steak, marinated in citrus-based sauces and spices. It’s popular in Mexican cuisine and often used in tacos and burritos.

Can I use a different cut of meat for Carne Asada?

While flank and skirt steaks are traditional, you can also use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. However, these may require different cooking times and techniques.

How do I know when my Carne Asada Steak is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium rare or about 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness.

Can I cook Carne Asada Steak indoors?

Yes! You can use a grill pan or broiler if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just ensure your pan is hot enough for a good sear.

What dishes can I make with leftover Carne Asada Steak?

Leftover carne asada is perfect in tacos, burritos, salads, or even served with eggs for breakfast! Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe offers incredible flavor and versatility, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner at home, this dish can be customized with various toppings and sides. Try it out today and discover your favorite way to enjoy carne asada!