Carne Asada

Carne Asada is a popular Mexican dish known for its vibrant flavors and tender meat. This recipe focuses on creating a flavorful marinade that infuses the skirt steak with a wonderful blend of citrus and spices.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 6 hours
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 6 hours and 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 large garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 lbs. skirt steak

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano.
    • Whisk these ingredients together to create a harmonious blend.
  • Marinate the Steak:
    • Place the skirt steak in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish.
    • Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
    • Seal or cover and marinate in the refrigerator for six hours, turning the steak occasionally to ensure even marination.
  • Prepare for Grilling:
    • Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature. This step is crucial for even cooking.
    • Preheat your grill to a high temperature, around 500 degrees F.
  • Grill the Steak:
    • Grill the steak directly over high heat for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly.
    • The goal is to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
  • Rest and Serve:
    • After grilling, let the steak rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
    • Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This ensures tenderness in every bite.
    • Serve immediately, ideally with traditional sides like tortillas, salsa, and guacamole.

Enjoy this classic Carne Asada recipe, perfect for a festive gathering or a family weekend meal. The marinade provides a tangy and aromatic flavor that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!