This tasty Mexican carne asada is juicy and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients like steak, lime, and spices, it’s perfect for grilling or a quick weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts work well for carne asada. Flank steak is leaner and flavorful, while skirt steak is a bit fattier and tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, try sirloin or even chicken for a lighter option.
Olive Oil: This helps with cooking and adds richness. You can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even use vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a zesty kick. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice is a good backup, but it’s less traditional. You could also use vinegar, like apple cider vinegar, for some tang.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley can be an excellent substitute, providing earthiness without the same flavor.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Carne Asada?
Grilling carne asada can be daunting, but it’s all about temperature and timing. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Preheat your grill until it’s hot—this will give the meat nice grill marks.
- Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, and always use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure.
- Letting the steak rest after grilling is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.
Follow these tips, and your carne asada will come out juicy and flavorful every time!
Easy Mexican Carne Asada Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ to 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Corn or flour tortillas, for serving
- Optional: diced onions and chopped cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy carne asada recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time plus a few hours for marinating. You’ll want to give it at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, try to marinate it for 2-4 hours. Total time will be about 2-5 hours depending on the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This creates a flavorful marinade that will tenderize and infuse the steak with amazing taste.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-4 hours for best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the marinated steak out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off before placing it on the grill.
4. Grill the Steak:
Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare. You want to see nice grill marks and a bit of caramelization on the outside. If you prefer it more done, leave it on the grill a bit longer until it reaches your desired doneness.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy when sliced.
6. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain into strips. Serve it hot with warm corn or flour tortillas, along with lime wedges on the side. If you like, you can add toppings such as diced onions and more fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Enjoy your flavorful and tender Mexican carne asada tacos! They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Carne Asada Recipe
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank and skirt steak are traditional choices, you can also use sirloin or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the meat.
How Can I Make the Marinade More Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also serve the carne asada with spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating the steak overnight can enhance the flavor even more! Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as acidic ingredients like lime juice can start to break down the meat and change its texture if left too long.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, and enjoy it in tacos, burritos, or as a salad topping!
