Bookmark
This Carne Asada recipe is the perfect way to bring bold Mexican flavors to your kitchen with simple ingredients and vibrant spices. The marinade creates tender juicy steak that tastes amazing grilled and served with your favorite sides or inside tacos and burritos.
Whenever I make this my family gathers around the grill enjoying the sizzling sounds and amazing aromas. It is our go to choice for making any dinner feel festive and exciting.
Ingredients
- Flank steak: offers rich beef flavor and stays juicy after grilling
- Fresh lime juice: brings bright zesty notes to balance the spices
- Pineapple juice: naturally tenderizes the steak while adding sweetness
- Garlic: gives the marinade a classic savory backbone
- Cilantro: delivers fresh herby flavor that ties everything together
- Olive oil: keeps the steak moist and promotes even cooking
- Jalapenos: add heat that you can easily adjust based on taste
- Vinegar: provides a touch of acidity enhancing overall flavor
- Onion: brings mild sweetness and depth to the dish
- Mexican oregano: offers earthy citrusy tones for authenticity
- Cumin and chili powder: create a warm smoky background
- Maggi Jugo: adds umami richness found in many traditional recipes you can easily order it here on Amazon for convenience
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a large bowl combine lime juice pineapple juice crushed garlic chopped cilantro olive oil jalapeno slices vinegar onion Mexican oregano cumin chili powder and Maggi Jugo whisk until well blended
- Marinate the Steak:
- Place steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish pour marinade over the meat making sure it is fully coated cover and refrigerate for four hours
- Heat Your Grill:
- Preheat your outdoor grill or heat a large cast iron pan like this Lodge 14 inch pizza pan indoors until it is very hot for the perfect sear
- Grill the Steak:
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let the excess drip off cook each side for about three minutes for medium or longer if you prefer a more well done steak
- Let it Rest and Slice:
- Transfer steak to a cutting board cover loosely with foil and rest for five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness
Bookmark
I always look forward to using pineapple juice in this marinade because it brings natural sweetness and tenderness reminding me of outdoor family parties where everyone could not wait for the steak to come off the grill
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze slices in freezer bags for up to three months gently reheat over low heat to keep the steak tender
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Maggi Jugo you can substitute soy sauce mixed with Worcestershire sauce for similar depth jalapenos can be swapped with poblano peppers for milder heat or left out entirely if preferred
Serving Suggestions
This steak shines in tacos burrito bowls or served over rice with fresh sides like guacamole or grilled vegetables homemade tortillas and plantains make excellent accompaniments for a full meal
Bookmark
Cultural Touchpoint
Carne Asada is more than just a recipe it is a social tradition across Mexico often enjoyed during gatherings where the grill becomes the heart of the celebration this version brings that same joy to your table with minimal effort
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best cut of meat for carne asada?
Flank steak or skirt steak are the top choices due to their beefy flavor and texture. Both cuts marinate well and stay tender when sliced thinly against the grain.
- → How long should I marinate carne asada?
For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate the steak for 2 to 4 hours. Avoid exceeding 6 hours to prevent over-tenderizing and mushy texture.
- → Can I make carne asada without pineapple juice?
Yes, you can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice. Pineapple juice adds extra tenderness, but orange juice provides a nice citrus flavor too.
- → How should I slice carne asada after cooking?
Always let the steak rest for 5 minutes after grilling, then slice thinly against the grain at an angle for maximum tenderness and juicy bites.
- → What are the best ways to serve carne asada?
Carne asada is versatile—serve it in tacos, burritos, over rice, or with sides like guacamole, plantains, or Mexican-style rice and beans.
- → How can I reheat leftover carne asada?
Gently reheat carne asada in a covered skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the meat.