Sizzling Citrus Carne Asada

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered what is carne asada ? Honestly, it's the MVP of backyard barbecues! This Citrus Marinated Steak recipe is about to become your signature dish.

Expect juicy, tangy flavors that will have everyone begging for more.

Brief Overview

Authentic Mexican carne asada recipe hails from northern Mexico. It is traditionally grilled flank steak recipe , bathed in citrusy goodness.

It is quick, taking about 2 hours and 25 minutes including prep. You can expect 4-6 servings!

Main Benefits

Did you know beef is packed with iron? This recipe makes easy dinner ideas with beef . This recipe brings a taste of sunshine to any meal.

What makes this truly special is the vibrant citrus marinade, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with unforgettable flavour.

Let's dive into what you'll need to create this masterpiece, even more if you decided to use a Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe !

Sizzling Citrus Carne Asada: Level Up Your BBQ Game!

I get it, sometimes you crave that authentic Mexican flavour but lack the time. I have been in your shoes.

Slow Cooker Carne Asada is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights. This Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe option will give you fall apart tender beef.

We will focus on the grill for now.

What You'll Need to Bring the Carne Asada Magic

Okay, let's gather our troops! We need a decent cut of beef. This will determine the quality of the Grilled flank steak recipe .

Don't worry, I'll break down the Best cut of beef for carne asada in the next section!

Ingredients & Equipment for Kick Ass Carne Asada

Okay, mate, let's talk about what you need to make some seriously good Carne Asada . We're not messing about here.

This is about flavour! It's so easy to do easy dinner ideas with beef that can also double as a Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe .

But before you ask what is carne asada , let's gather ingredients and equipment.

Main Ingredients

Here's the lowdown on the bits and bobs you'll need.

• Orange Juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . Freshly squeezed is king, no messing.
• Lime Juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . Again, fresh is best, avoids that weird artificial taste.
• Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . See a pattern here? Fresh!
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . Extra virgin, cos we're fancy like that.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Don't be shy, garlic is your friend.
• Jalapeno (optional): 1 , seeded and minced. Only if you like a bit of a kick.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon . Low sodium, we're trying to be healthy ish.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon . For that umami goodness.
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon , ground.
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon , dried. Mexican oregano if you can find it!
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon . Adds a lovely smokiness.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon , freshly ground.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon , or to taste.
• Flank Steak: 2 pounds (900g) , trimmed. This is often the best cut of beef for carne asada , but skirt steak works too.

Quality Indicators? For the steak, look for good marbling (those little streaks of fat). Fresh citrus is key!

Seasoning Notes

The Carne asada marinade recipe is where the magic happens. Cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika are your base. Don't be afraid to experiment! A pinch of chili powder can add some heat.

I once accidentally added a bit too much chipotle powder. It was HOT, but still pretty good! A few dashes of Fish sauce is also great, and it also has a similar savory and complex profile to Authentic Mexican carne asada recipe .

Quick sub? If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, a splash of balsamic vinegar works in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Right, let's talk gear.

• Large resealable bag or shallow dish.
• Grill (gas or charcoal). Charcoal is always a better flavour!
• Instant read thermometer. Optional, but helps avoid disaster.
• Tongs. Essential for flipping the steak.
• Cutting board.
• Sharp knife. You'll need this to slice it against the grain.

Don't have a grill? A cast iron skillet works great indoors.

Enjoy the grilled flank steak recipe or Slow Cooker Carne Asada . It's all delicious. If you’re looking for alternative ideas, you can try out Crockpot Shredded Beef Tacos .

Sizzling Citrus Carne Asada: Your Backyard BBQ Boss Level Up

Honestly, what is carne asada if not the ultimate BBQ flex? It's not just any steak. It's a flavour explosion waiting to happen.

We're talking thinly sliced steak, swimming in a zesty marinade, then charred to perfection on the grill. This recipe is inspired by authentic Mexican carne asada recipe.

It's a guaranteed crowd pleaser for those summer garden parties! It may be one of the most easy dinner ideas with beef.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place for Maximum Flavour

First things first: get organised! Squeeze 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice , 1/4 cup (60 ml) lime juice , and 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon juice .

Mince 4 cloves of garlic . If you're feeling brave, finely dice 1 jalapeno pepper . Gather 1 tablespoon soy sauce , 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon cumin , 1 teaspoon oregano , 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika , 1/2 teaspoon black pepper , and 1/2 teaspoon salt .

This is the essential mise en place. Having everything ready will save you time and prevent those "Oh my gosh, I forgot the oregano!" moments.

When it comes to time saving organization tips, a simple way is to get all these condiments in one small bowl.

Safety Reminder : Be careful when handling jalapenos. I once touched my eye after chopping one and let me tell you, that was a mistake I only ever made once!

step-by-step: From Marinade Magic to Grill Glory

1. Mix the marinade: Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a large bag or dish.
2. Marinate like you mean it: Submerge 2 pounds (900g) of flank steak (or skirt steak) in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , ideally overnight.
3. Grill prep: Preheat your grill to medium high heat (400- 450° F or 200- 230° C) . Make sure it's clean!.
4. Grill time: Remove the steak, letting excess marinade drip off (discard the marinade). Grill for 3- 5 minutes per side for medium rare ( 130- 135° F or 54- 57° C ). Use a thermometer!
5. Rest is best: Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Trust me; this is crucial!
6. Slice and serve: Slice thinly against the grain. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.

Pro Tips: Unleash Your Inner Grill Master

Here are some tips! Marinating is like a spa day for your steak. The longer, the better. But don't overdo it! You don't want citrus marinated steak turning to mush.

Slice against the grain, people! It's the only way to get that melt-in-your mouth tenderness.

Want to make things easier? You can even prepare the marinade a day in advance, or look for a pre-made carne asada marinade recipe .

Serve with your favourite toppings and enjoy some carne asada tacos recipe . Don't overcrowd the grill. It lowers the temperature, and you end up steaming the meat instead of searing it.

Not ideal. This is especially important if you are making a Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe.

You can also use the Slow Cooker Carne Asada method. Try out these pro tips next time you are coming up with some Easy Dinner Ideas With Beef .

Recipe Notes That'll Make You a Carne Asada Rockstar

So, you're about to tackle this Sizzling Citrus Carne Asada ? Ace! Let's talk about some bits to make it a total success.

Honestly, what is carne asada if not a symphony of flavour and technique? A good carne asada marinade recipe will take you to the next level!

Plating Like a Pro (and Drinks That Don't Suck!)

Presentation does matter, you know? I like to fan the sliced Best cut of beef for carne asada (flank steak is my go-to, but skirt steak works too!) across a wooden board.

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges. Want a pop of colour? Add some pickled red onions. As for drinks? A crisp Mexican lager or a zingy margarita always hits the spot.

Maybe a virgin mojito for the non-drinkers? They'll thank you.

Storing the Goodness (If There's Any Left!)

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop that Citrus marinated steak in an airtight container and into the fridge. It'll happily sit there for up to three days.

Want to freeze it? Totally doable! Just wrap it tightly in foil or freezer wrap to prevent freezer burn. Reheating is easy; a quick zap in the microwave or a gentle sizzle in a pan.

To avoid rubbery steak, add a tablespoon or two of beef broth while reheating.

Remixing the Recipe: Your Way

Fancy a twist? How about a Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe ? Sear the beef first, then chuck it in the slow cooker with the marinade for like, 6- 8 hours on low.

Boom! Slow Cooker Carne Asada . For a low-carb version, ditch the tortillas and serve it with cauliflower rice and a massive dollop of guacamole.

Seasonally, you can swap out the oranges for tangerines during winter. It'll give your Authentic Mexican carne asada recipe a festive vibe.

Nutrition: The Lowdown

Okay, so it's not exactly health food. But it's not awful either! Carne Asada provides a good whack of protein.

Each serving has around 350 calories, 40g of protein, 20g of fat, 5g of carbs and 400mg of sodium. It's also a good source of iron and zinc.

Remember this is just an estimate. Serve it with loads of veggies to balance things out. Trust me, everyone will love your Easy Dinner Ideas With Beef .

Right, that's your lot! Go forth and make some amazing Carne Asada tacos recipe , you got this! It may seem intimidating at first.

But follow these tips, and you'll be serving up a feast fit for a king in no time. Let me know how it goes, yeah? And if you are a beginner I think a Carne Asada Crockpot Recipe can be the beginning to your success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Okay, spill the beans: What is Carne Asada anyway? Is it just... steak?

Not just any steak! Carne Asada, which translates to "grilled meat" in Spanish, is a Northern Mexican dish featuring thinly sliced beef, typically flank or skirt steak, marinated in a vibrant citrusy mixture with garlic and spices. Think of it as the "Full Monty" of BBQ: flavourful, tender, and guaranteed to impress.

What cut of beef is best for carne asada, and can I swap it out? My butcher only had one option!

Flank steak is a classic choice, but skirt steak (inside or outside) works wonderfully, offering a slightly richer flavour. Flap meat (arrachera) is another great option! If you're stuck, ask your butcher for a thin, flavourful cut suitable for quick grilling, and remember to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness it's the "Strictly Come Dancing" of meat prep, a must!

How long should I marinate the carne asada? Is a quick dip enough, or do I need to plan ahead?

While a short marination is better than nothing, aim for at least 2 hours, and ideally overnight for the best flavour and tenderness. The citrus in the marinade helps to break down the muscle fibres, resulting in a juicy and flavourful steak.

Think of it like brewing a good cuppa: the longer it steeps, the better it gets!

"What is carne asada" without all the citrus? I'm not a huge fan!

The citrus is pretty crucial for the flavour profile, however, if you really dislike it, you could reduce the amount of orange, lemon, and lime juice and compensate with more olive oil and Worcestershire sauce. A splash of pineapple juice can also add some sweetness and tenderizing properties.

But, for a truly authentic carne asada experience, I'd encourage you to give the citrus a chance it’s a "Mary Poppins" spoonful of sugar that makes all the difference!

How do I store leftover carne asada, and how long will it last? Can I freeze it?

Leftover carne asada will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to avoid drying it out. Yes, you can freeze cooked carne asada! Wrap it tightly in cling film, then in a freezer bag, and it will last for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above; it's like having a "ready meal" but way better!

Is carne asada healthy? I'm trying to watch my waistline!

Carne asada can be a relatively healthy option, as it's a good source of protein. Opting for a leaner cut of beef like flank steak and trimming any excess fat helps to reduce the calorie count.

Watch your portion sizes and load up on healthy toppings like onions, cilantro, and salsa instead of cheese and sour cream think "Slimming World" but with a delicious Mexican twist!