This carne asada recipe features juicy, marinated beef grilled to perfection. It’s packed with flavor and is perfect for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying on its own!
When grilling, the smell will make everyone hungry. I love serving it with fresh salsa and tortillas. It’s a great way to bring everyone together for a tasty meal! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are ideal for carne asada because they cook quickly and become tender when marinated. If they are not available, you can use sirloin or even chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Soy Sauce: This adds a delicious umami flavor to the marinade. If you need a soy sauce alternative, consider liquid aminos for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Citrus Juices: Lime juice is essential for that tangy flavor. If you don’t have limes, you can use bottled lime juice in a pinch. Orange juice adds sweetness; substitute with apple juice if needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work as a substitute, although fresh is preferred for better flavor.
Jalapeño: This adds a kick of heat to the marinade. If you want less heat, you can leave it out or substitute with a milder pepper like a green bell pepper, or add more garlic for flavor without the spice.
How Can I Make Sure My Steak Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak to the right doneness can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it! Here’s a simple guide:
- Preheat Your Grill: Get your grill nice and hot. Aim for about 450°F to 500°F, which will create a good sear.
- Timing: Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer; 130°F-135°F is perfect for medium-rare.
- Let It Rest: After removing it from the grill, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices in!
- Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the steak, always slice against the grain. This makes it more tender and easier to chew.
The Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the marinade:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
For Serving:
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious carne asada recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours to marinate in the fridge. For the best results, you can marinate it overnight! Cooking will take around 10-12 minutes depending on your grill and desired doneness. In total, plan for about 2 hours and 15 minutes (or more if marinating overnight).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a large resealable bag or a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat, about 450°F to 500°F. This high heat is essential for getting a nice sear on your steak.
4. Grill the Steak:
Take the steak out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it reaches medium-rare doneness (145°F). Adjust cooking time for thicker cuts or your preferred level of doneness.
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the steak juicy and tender!
6. Slice and Serve:
Slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and red onion. Serve with lime wedges and warm tortillas for tacos or fajitas. Enjoy your flavorful carne asada!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! If flank or skirt steak isn’t available, you can use sirloin or even ribeye for a richer flavor. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness, so adjust accordingly.
Can I Marinate This for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the steak for up to 24 hours; however, marinating for too long can cause the meat to become mushy due to the acidity from the lime juice. Stick with 8-12 hours for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat to retain its juices, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor. Both can complement the dish nicely without overpowering it!
