Carne Asada Tacos

Name: Carne Asada Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak; 2 limes (juiced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn or flour tortillas; Diced onions for topping; Diced tomatoes for topping

If you’re craving a taste of Mexico, carne asada tacos are the perfect choice. Juicy marinated beef grilled to perfection and served on warm tortillas, topped with fresh ingredients, make for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to follow, ensuring you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family with these flavorful tacos!

Ingredients

– 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
– 2 limes (juiced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn or flour tortillas
– Diced onions and tomatoes for topping
– Avocado slices (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 taco) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of protein, 10g of fat, and 25g of carbohydrates. This information is based on one taco with minimal toppings.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by marinating the flank or skirt steak in lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
4. Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
7. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
8. Assemble tacos by placing sliced steak on the tortillas.
9. Top with diced onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
10. Serve with lime wedges and avocado slices if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute flank or skirt steak with chicken or pork, adjusting marinating time as needed. Additionally, use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Serving and Pairings

Carne asada tacos are delicious on their own but can be paired with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or fresh guacamole for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Tacos can also be frozen, but tortillas may lose texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the steak can lead to toughness.
Not allowing the steak to rest can result in juices running out.
Skipping the marinating step will reduce flavor.
Using cold tortillas can affect the overall taste.
Not slicing against the grain can make the meat chewy.

Helpful Tips

Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Experiment with different toppings for variety.
Let the steak marinate longer for more flavor.
Try adding pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.

FAQs

What kind of meat is best for carne asada tacos?

Flank steak or skirt steak is traditionally used for carne asada due to its flavor and tenderness. These cuts are ideal for grilling and can absorb marinades well.

Can I make carne asada tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the meat and grill it ahead of time. Just store the cooked meat in the fridge and assemble the tacos when you’re ready to serve.

What toppings are traditional for carne asada tacos?

Common toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salsa. You can also add avocado, cheese, or sour cream for additional flavor.

Are carne asada tacos spicy?

Carne asada itself is not typically spicy, but you can add spicy salsa or jalapeños to increase the heat according to your preference.

Can I use a different cooking method for the steak?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a stovetop skillet or broiler. Just ensure the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.

Conclusion

Carne asada tacos are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Enjoy the deliciousness and make these tacos a staple in your recipe collection!