Authentic Carne Asada Recipe: Grill Like a Pro

Grilling the Perfect Carne Asada: An Authentic Recipe

Grilled to perfection, carne asada brings the vibrant essence of Mexican cuisine straight to your barbecue. Known for its delicious, charred flavor, mastering this dish will make you the star of any cookout. Here’s a foolproof recipe to help you grill carne asada like a pro.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
• 3 oranges, juiced
• 2 limes, juiced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₂ cup cilantro, chopped
• ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ¹⁄₂ tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for some heat)

Preparation

Begin by preparing the marinade which will infuse the steak with an authentic carne asada flavor:

1. Marinade Preparation: In a large bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If you like your steak with a kick, add the jalapeño at this point. Mix well.
2. Marinating: Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate. For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Grilling

Once your steak is marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill:

• Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to high heat, about 450-500°F (230-260°C). You want it hot to sear the steak, locking in those juices.
• Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust according to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
• Rest: Let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, keeping it tender.
• Slice and Serve: Slice the steak against the grain. This method reduces the toughness, making each bite more enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your carne asada experience:

• Serve with fresh, warm tortillas for tacos.
• Accompany with traditional sides like Mexican rice, guacamole, pico de gallo, and grilled vegetables.
• Add grilled lime wedges for an extra zing of flavor.

Notes on Grilling

🌮 Note: The marinade acts not only as a flavor enhancer but also as a tenderizer. The citrus acids help break down the muscle fibers in the steak, making it softer and more flavorful when cooked.

The process of grilling carne asada is a balance of art and technique, where timing, heat management, and seasoning play crucial roles. By following these steps and hints, you'll deliver a restaurant-quality carne asada that's authentic in taste and unforgettable in experience.

What’s the best cut of steak for Carne Asada?

+

The best cuts are flank or skirt steak due to their tenderness when marinated and grilled. They have the right balance of lean meat and marbling.

How long should I marinate the steak?

+

A minimum of 4 hours is recommended, but for optimal flavor, marinate overnight, up to 24 hours.

Can I grill Carne Asada indoors?

+

Yes, you can use a cast iron grill pan or griddle if outdoor grilling is not an option. Make sure to get the pan hot to achieve that char.