Authentic Carne Asada + Street Tacos Recipe

This Authentic Carne Asada recipe is a must-try for taco lovers! With a flavorful marinade made of lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, cilantro, and spices like chili powder and cumin, the steak is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for grilling, this Carne Asada can be served in street tacos or enjoyed with your favorite sides. With simple ingredients and quick prep, this recipe guarantees a delicious meal that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurants. Ideal for family gatherings, taco night, or BBQs, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy grilled carne asada tacos at home. Perfect for meat lovers looking for an easy, flavorful steak recipe with marinated beef and bold Mexican flavors.

Ingredients

For Carne Asada:

• 2 lb Flank Steak
• 1/4 cup lime juice (from 2-3 limes)
• 1/4 cup orange juice (no pulp)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (regular, not low-sodium)
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
• 7 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Marinate the Flank Steak: In a large shallow bowl or casserole dish, mix together lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt to create the marinade. Place the flank steak in the marinade and turn it a few times to coat it well.
2. Marinate:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. Turn the steak occasionally to ensure it marinates evenly.
3. Grill the Carne Asada:
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated steak on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the steak reaches your desired doneness (145˚F for medium-rare, 160˚F for medium).
4. Rest and Slice:
   Remove the steak from the grill, tent with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Thinly slice the steak against the grain.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada is the perfect combination of juicy, tender steak infused with a tangy, flavorful marinade. The balance of lime, orange, soy sauce, and spices gives the meat an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether you enjoy it in street tacos or on its own, this recipe offers a quick and easy way to make authentic, restaurant-quality Carne Asada at home.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Marinating: For the best flavor, marinate the steak overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
• Meat Alternatives: If flank steak isn’t available, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin.
• Add Heat: For a spicier marinade, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Grill Marks: For better grill marks, ensure the grill is properly preheated and avoid moving the steak too much while cooking.

FAQs

How do I know when the Carne Asada is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the steak should reach 145˚F. For medium, aim for 160˚F.

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a cast-iron grill pan will give you similar results with great grill marks.

Can I make the Carne Asada ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the steak the day before and grill it the next day. It’s perfect for meal prepping.

Serving and Suggestions

• Taco Night: Serve the carne asada in soft corn tortillas with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime for authentic street tacos.
• Side Dishes: Pair with Mexican rice, guacamole, and salsa for a complete meal.
• Additional Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce for extra flavor.