This carne asada is juicy, flavorful, and full of tasty spices! With marinated beef grilled to perfection, it’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or just on its own.
I like to serve it with fresh salsa and some warm tortillas. Once you try this recipe, it’ll be your new favorite for backyard gatherings! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are great for carne asada thanks to their flavor and tenderness when grilled. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can use sirloin or even chicken breasts.
Lime & Orange Juice: Fresh juice really brings out the flavors. If you’re short on fresh fruit, bottled juice works too, but choose a natural one without added sugar. Lemon juice can also be used in place of lime.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but I recommend using fresh when possible for that strong punch.
Soy Sauce: It adds a salty depth. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with tamari. If you’re cutting back on sodium, low-sodium soy sauce will work nicely too.
Cilantro & Red Onion: These garnishes can be swapped out based on preference. If cilantro isn’t your thing, try chopped green onions or parsley. For the onion, white or yellow onions are good alternatives.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Carne Asada?
Grilling carne asada can be simple, but a few tips can take it to the next level. The trick is to ensure your grill is at the right temperature and to let the steak rest after cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot before putting the steak on. This helps to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- As the steak cooks, aim for 5-7 minutes each side. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy – 130°F is ideal for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest after grilling for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- When slicing, always cut against the grain. This means cutting across the muscle fibers, which results in more tender bites.
How to Make the Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Red onion, diced (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Corn tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious carne asada recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and should be marinated for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for more flavor). Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes. So, overall, you’ll need around 30-40 minutes of hands-on time, plus the marinating time. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, soy sauce, olive oil, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until well blended. This tasty marinade is going to make your carne asada shine!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Take your flank or skirt steak and place it into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish, placing it in the refrigerator. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can fit it in, letting it sit for up to 8 hours will give you the best flavor!
3. Grill the Steak:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (around 130°F for medium-rare). After grilling, we want to let it rest—this is key for juicy steak!
4. Slice and Serve:
After resting for 5-10 minutes, slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips. This helps make each bite tender and delicious. Serve your tasty steak with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and lime wedges, along with warm corn tortillas to enjoy it as tacos. Now, dig in and enjoy your feast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! While flank steak and skirt steak are traditional choices, you can also use cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so check for doneness to your liking!
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For the best flavor, marinate your steak for at least 1 hour, but ideally, aim for 4 to 8 hours. If you’re in a pinch, even 30 minutes can impart some flavor, but longer is always better for tenderness and taste!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, coconut aminos is a great substitute for soy sauce. Additionally, you can make a simple blend of 1/4 cup of beef broth and 1 tablespoon of vinegar for an alternative if you have soy allergies!
How to Properly Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to slice it before freezing for quicker thawing—when you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
