Carne Asada

Carne Asada

Carne Asada, meaning 'grilled meat' in Spanish, is a beloved dish that hails from the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico. Known for its bold flavors and juicy tenderness, this grilled flank steak is marinated to perfection in a zesty concoction of citrus juices and spices, making it the perfect centerpiece for a festive gathering or a simple family dinner. Topped with fresh cilantro, it’s a dish that delights the senses and brings a taste of Mexico to your table.

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • Flank steak (2 pounds)
  • Fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped (for garnish))
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Chili powder (2 teaspoons)
  • Cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
  • Orange juice (1/4 cup)
  • Lime juice (1/4 cup)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it's hot for a good sear.
  4. Remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off, and discard the marinade.
  5. Brush both sides of the steak with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill the steak for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is recommended for tenderness).
  7. Once grilled, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  8. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
  10. Serve hot with warm tortillas, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salsa for a complete meal.

Dietary Information

Servings: 6 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Marinade Time: 2 hours (or overnight) • Cook Time: 16 minutes • Calories: 300 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 5g • Protein: 30g • Sodium: 400mg • Sugar: 2g