Authentic Carne Asada - Mexican Grilled Steak
Juicy, smoky, and bursting with authentic flavor, Carne Asada is a classic Mexican grilled steak that's perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Marinated in a blend of citrus, spices, and herbs, this tender, char-grilled beef is ideal for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying on its own. Simple to make but rich in flavor, this Carne Asada will make your kitchen feel like an authentic Mexican taqueria.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs flank or skirt steak
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
Prepare the Marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well blended.
Marinate the Steak. Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Grill. Preheat your grill to high heat (around 450°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Steak. Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Rest and Slice. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Recipe tips
Allowing the steak to marinate for at least 2 hours (preferably up to 8 hours) helps the flavors fully penetrate the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Fresh lime and orange juice add brightness to the marinade and tenderize the meat naturally. Grill the steak over high heat for a short time to get a nice char without overcooking. Cutting the steak against the grain creates shorter meat fibers, giving a more tender bite.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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