Carne Asada Tacos (Grilled Steak Tacos)

Introduction

Carne Asada Tacos, also known as Grilled Steak Tacos, are a popular Mexican dish that features marinated and grilled steak served in warm tortillas. This delicious and flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients

For the marinade:

– 1/4 cup of lime juice

– 1/4 cup of orange juice

– 3 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced

– 1/4 cup of cilantro, chopped

– 1 teaspoon of cumin

– 1 teaspoon of chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1.5 pounds of flank steak

For the tacos:

– Corn tortillas

– Onion, finely chopped

– Cilantro, chopped

– Lime wedges

– Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Steps

1. In a bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, minced jalapeno, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

2. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the steak is well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.

4. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

5. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.

6. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet.

7. Fill each tortilla with a few slices of grilled steak. Top with chopped onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add salsa or hot sauce if desired.

8. Serve the Carne Asada Tacos immediately and enjoy!

Variations

There are endless variations you can try to customize your Carne Asada Tacos:

– Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the grill for extra flavor and texture.

– Swap the flank steak for skirt steak or sirloin steak.

– Experiment with different marinades by adding ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or pineapple juice.

– Serve the tacos with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Tips

Here are some tips to make the best Carne Asada Tacos:

– Marinate the steak for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

– Make sure to slice the steak against the grain to ensure tender and easy-to-chew meat.

– Use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to the citrus juices and cilantro, to enhance the flavors of the dish.

– Warm the tortillas just before serving to make them soft and pliable.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Tacos are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of grilled steak to your plate. With a flavorful marinade and the right toppings, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. So fire up the grill, marinate your steak, and enjoy the savory goodness of Carne Asada Tacos!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat for Carne Asada Tacos?

Yes, you can use skirt steak or sirloin steak as alternatives to flank steak. They have a similar texture and will work well in this recipe.

2. How long should I marinate the steak?

It is recommended to marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make Carne Asada Tacos without a grill?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the steak on a stovetop grill pan or in a skillet over medium-high heat. Just make sure to cook it for the same amount of time per side until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

4. What are some suggested toppings for Carne Asada Tacos?

Some popular toppings for Carne Asada Tacos include chopped onion, cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings!