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Description :

This recipe unlocks the secrets to incredibly flavorful and tender carne asada. Marinated in a vibrant citrus and herb blend, the steak is grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, charred exterior and a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. This carne asada is perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or enjoyed simply on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This carne asada recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The marinade is simple to make, using readily available ingredients, yet it infuses the steak with an unparalleled depth of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a delicious weeknight meal, this carne asada is guaranteed to impress.

Introduction :

Carne Asada is a flavorful Mexican grilled beef dish, marinated in citrus, garlic, and spices. It’s known for its juicy, tender texture and smoky char. This recipe walks you through how to achieve that authentic taste right at home. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or served on its own, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. The marinade is key, infusing every bite with bold, zesty flavor. For more delicious dinner recipes, visit KitchenGlance.

Ingredients :

2 pounds skirt steak or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Preparation :

Step 1 : Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, jalapeno (if using), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2 : Marinate the Steak: Place the sliced steak in the marinade, making sure it’s fully submerged. If using a resealable bag, squeeze out any excess air. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

Step 3 : Refrigerate: Marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the steak marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the citrus juices can start to break down the meat too much.

Step 4 : Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the steak from sticking.

Step 5 : Remove from Marinade: Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This will help it get a nice sear on the grill.

COOK Rating : 5/5

Serving Suggestions :

Tacos: Serve the carne asada in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Burritos: Use the carne asada as a filling for burritos, along with rice, beans, cheese, and your preferred toppings.
Salads: Top a fresh salad with grilled carne asada for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with cheese, beans, carne asada, and your favorite nacho toppings.
Platters: Serve the carne asada as part of a grilled meat platter, accompanied by grilled vegetables, rice, and beans.
Quesadillas: Fill quesadillas with carne asada and cheese for a quick and easy meal.
Bowls: Create a delicious carne asada bowl with rice, beans, corn, avocado, and your favorite salsa.

Tips :

Choosing the Right Cut: Skirt steak and flank steak are the most popular choices for carne asada due to their thinness and ability to absorb marinade well. Look for steaks that are evenly thick and have good marbling.
Slicing the Steak: Always slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. This breaks down the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew.
Marinating Time: While a minimum of 2 hours is recommended, marinating the steak overnight will yield the best results.
Grilling Temperature: Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling carne asada. This will allow the steak to get a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
Doneness: Cook the steak to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 135-145°F.
Resting Time: After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Adding Heat: For an extra kick, add more jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Citrus Balance: Adjust the ratio of citrus juices to your preference. Some people prefer a tangier marinade, while others prefer a sweeter one.
Smoky Flavor: If you want to add more smoky flavor, use mesquite charcoal or wood chips when grilling.
Serving Hot: Serve the carne asada immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 5-7 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including marinating time)

Nutrition Information: (per serving, approximate) Calories: 450 Protein: 40g Sodium: 500mg

Conclusion :

This Carne Asada recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver bold, unforgettable flavor. With a vibrant marinade and easy grilling steps, you’ll create juicy, tender steak every time. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or platters, it brings the taste of Mexico right to your backyard. Whether you’re a beginner or grill pro, this recipe is your guide to Carne Asada perfection. Fire up the grill and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is versatile.