Carne Asada is much more than just grilled meat. It is a culinary emblem that carries with it the warmth of Mexican culture, the joy of shared meals, and the rich tapestry of bold, vibrant flavors. This dish is a celebration of fire and citrus, smoky char and fresh herbs—a harmony of tastes that speaks to tradition and community.
At its heart, Carne Asada is a simple steak transformed by a marinade that combines zesty citrus juices with earthy spices, fresh cilantro, and a hint of smoky heat. This marinade not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with layers of flavor, making every bite an invitation to experience a true Mexican feast.
Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or casual gatherings, Carne Asada brings people together around the grill and the table. The process—from marinating the steak overnight to slicing it thinly and serving it with classic accompaniments—creates an experience that’s as meaningful as it is delicious.
Below is a detailed recipe that walks you through every step to prepare authentic Carne Asada at home, respecting the deep roots of this dish while making it approachable and easy for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients
Marinade
¾ cup fresh orange juice (preferably from ripe, sweet oranges)
½ cup fresh lemon juice
⅓ cup fresh lime juice
½ cup soy sauce (adds savory depth and umami)
1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika is ideal for added depth)
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon canned chipotle pepper, finely chopped (for subtle smoky heat)
½ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano is preferred if available)
For the Steak
3 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, trimmed of excess fat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large non-metal bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and soy sauce. Add the finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper, oregano, and chipotle pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, creating an emulsion that adds richness and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
The fresh citrus brightens the marinade, while the chipotle and spices lend a smoky warmth—this combination will infuse your steak with complexity and depth.
Step 2: Reserve Marinade for Serving
Before adding the steak, pour 1 cup of the marinade into a separate container, cover, and refrigerate. This reserved marinade will be used later as a finishing drizzle to add a fresh burst of flavor to the grilled meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Steak
Lay the steak flat on a cutting board. If the thickness is uneven, gently pound it to about ¼-inch thick with a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.
Lightly pierce both sides of the steak with a fork to allow the marinade to penetrate more deeply, maximizing flavor throughout the meat.
Step 4: Marinate the Steak
Place the steak in the marinade, turning it several times to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. The longer the meat marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
Step 5: Prepare the Grill
About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steak from the marinade and allow it to come to room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. You want a deep brown sear with a slight char for maximum flavor.
Avoid overcooking; Carne Asada is best served medium-rare to medium for a juicy, tender texture.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, preserving its moisture.
Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain. Cutting across the muscle fibers ensures tenderness and a perfect bite every time.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter and drizzle with the reserved marinade. The citrusy, spicy drizzle adds brightness and balances the smoky richness of the grilled meat.
Serve with traditional sides such as warm corn or flour tortillas, grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions, fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, cilantro-lime rice, or charro beans.
Final Thoughts
Carne Asada is a dish that brings people together. It’s a shared experience rooted in Mexican culinary tradition, where food is more than sustenance—it’s a celebration of life and culture.
This recipe captures the heart of that tradition while making it accessible for home cooks. With its bold flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for creating memorable meals, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones.
Every bite of Carne Asada carries the essence of smoky fire, fresh citrus, and rich spices—a true tribute to the artistry of Mexican grilling.
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