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Carne Asada





Authentic Carne Asada Recipe

Description

Carne Asada, a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, features tender, marinated steak grilled to perfection. Its rich flavors come from a zesty marinade infused with citrus, garlic, and spices. This dish is versatile, making it ideal for tacos, burritos, or simply served with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole. Our recipe ensures you capture the authentic taste of Carne Asada, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

  • 2 pounds flank or skirt steak
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • Warm corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Diced onions
  • Lime wedges
  • Salsa
  • Guacamole

Instructions Step-by-Step for Making Carne Asada

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  1. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well blended.
  2. Marinate the Steak:
    • Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. The longer the steak marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Step 2: Grill the Steak

  1. Preheat the Grill:
    • Preheat your grill to high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, prepare a hot fire with a good amount of coals.
  2. Grill the Steak:
    • Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
  3. Rest the Steak:
    • Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Step 3: Serve the Carne Asada

  1. Slice the Steak:
    • Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Cutting against the grain helps to ensure each bite is tender.
  2. Assemble Tacos:
    • Serve the sliced steak on warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. Add salsa and guacamole as desired.

Tips and Variations for Carne Asada

Tips for Perfect Carne Asada

  • Marinating Time:
    • For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 8 hours. Overnight marination will yield the most flavorful results.
  • Grill Temperature:
    • Ensure your grill is very hot before placing the steak on it. A high temperature will give you a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Resting the Meat:
    • Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is crucial. This step ensures the juices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Variations

  • Different Cuts of Meat:
    • While flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can also use sirloin or ribeye for a more tender option.
  • Oven-Broiled Carne Asada:
    • If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the steak in the oven. Preheat the broiler and cook the steak on a broiler pan for about 5-7 minutes per side.
  • Citrus Twist:
    • Add a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade for a unique, sweet twist on the traditional flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Carne Asada

Origins of Carne Asada

Carne Asada, which translates to “grilled meat,” is a staple in Mexican cuisine. The dish has its roots in the northern regions of Mexico, particularly in states like Sonora and Baja California, where cattle ranching is prevalent. Traditionally, it was made with beef cuts grilled over open flames, a method that dates back to the early indigenous peoples of the region.

Carne Asada in Mexican Culture

Carne Asada is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. It often serves as the centerpiece for gatherings and celebrations, from family get-togethers to community fiestas. The preparation and grilling process is a social activity, bringing people together to enjoy good food and company.

Fun Facts

  • Regional Variations:
    • Different regions in Mexico have their own unique takes on Carne Asada, varying the marinade and the sides served with it.
  • Street Food Staple:
    • Carne Asada is a popular street food, commonly served in tacos with simple, fresh toppings like cilantro and onions.
  • Global Influence:
    • The popularity of Carne Asada has spread far beyond Mexico, becoming a beloved dish in many parts of the world, particularly in the southwestern United States.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The magic of Carne Asada lies in its marinade, which not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The acidic components (lime and orange juice) break down the muscle fibers, making the steak more tender. Grilling at high heat creates a Maillard reaction, which is responsible for the deliciously charred and flavorful crust on the outside of the steak.