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Carne Asada Recipe

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4.1 from 88 reviews

This Carne Asada recipe delivers a flavorful and juicy grilled steak, marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick yet delicious meal, the skirt or flank steak is infused with the vibrant flavors of orange, lime, garlic, and cilantro, then grilled to perfection. Serve sliced against the grain for tender, mouthwatering results ideal for tacos, burritos, or a hearty main dish.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade Ingredients

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Juice from 2 large oranges (about ¾ cup)
  • Juice from 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar (apple cider vinegar can be used)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1-2 serrano peppers, minced (or jalapeno peppers for milder flavor)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ – ½ cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon ancho powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Steak

  • 3 pound skirt or flank steak

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, white wine vinegar, chopped onion, minced serrano peppers, garlic, chopped cilantro, ancho powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Optional Processing: For a smoother marinade, process all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly.
  3. Marinate the Steak: Place the steak into a large sealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Rub the marinade thoroughly into the meat, seal the bag tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
  4. Grill the Steak: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the steak for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the grilled steak rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain and serve hot.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight will yield more intense flavor and tenderize the meat further.
  • If you prefer a milder spice level, substitute serrano peppers with jalapenos or omit peppers.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and avoid overcooking.
  • Skirt or flank steak are preferred for this recipe due to their flavor and texture.
  • Leftover carne asada can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican