Carne Asada
Carne asada, a staple of Mexican cuisine, features marinated and grilled beef that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings, tacos, or simply enjoyed on its own. With its tender texture and vibrant seasoning, carne asada is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this savory recipe that will elevate your culinary skills!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 5 oz of cooked carne asada) contains approximately 300 calories, 23g protein, 22g fat, and 0g carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak in a large resealable bag and pour marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for a temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
- Remove steak from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute flank steak with skirt steak or even chicken for a different flavor. Additionally, lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice, and fresh herbs can be swapped based on availability.
Serving and Pairings
Carne asada pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, guacamole, fresh salsa, and a side of rice or beans. For a refreshing touch, serve with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the grill or in a skillet. Freezing is also an option; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip marinating; it enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Avoid overcooking the steak to maintain juiciness.
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the meat.
- Let the steak rest after grilling to retain juices.
- Always slice against the grain for tenderness.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices in the marinade to suit your taste.
- Consider using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Serve with fresh lime on the side for added zest.
FAQs
What cut of meat is best for carne asada?
Flank steak and skirt steak are the traditional choices for carne asada due to their flavor and tenderness when marinated and grilled.
Can I make carne asada in the oven?
Yes, you can broil carne asada in the oven. Preheat the broiler and place the marinated steak on a broiler pan, cooking it for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
What should I serve with carne asada?
Common pairings include tortillas, guacamole, rice, beans, and fresh salads. You can also enjoy it in tacos or burritos.
How long do I marinate carne asada?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is ideal, but overnight will yield the best flavor and tenderness.
Can I freeze carne asada?
Yes, you can freeze cooked carne asada. Just ensure it’s properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn, and it can last for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Carne asada is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and culture. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can impress anyone at your table. Enjoy the vibrant taste of carne asada today!
Carne Asada
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak in a large resealable bag and pour marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for a temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
- Remove steak from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
