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Ultimate Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying dish made with grilled marinated steak, served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings. This Ultimate Carne Asada Tacos Recipe delivers juicy steak and authentic Mexican flavors for the perfect taco night meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Small bowls for toppings
  • Aluminum foil (for resting the steak)

Ingredients
  

For the Carne Asada:

  • 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp orange juice
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup chopped white onion
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
  • Sliced radishes (optional)
  • Guacamole or sliced avocado (optional)

Instructions
 

  • 1. Marinate the Steak
    In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper.Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s fully coated.Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for more flavor).
    2. Grill the Carne Asada
    Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat.Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F/57°C for medium-rare).Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
    3. Prepare the Toppings
    While the steak rests, prepare the toppings. Finely chop the onion and cilantro, slice the radishes, and warm the tortillas.
    4. Slice the Steak
    After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for tender bites.
    5. Assemble the Tacos
    To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of the carne asada on each warmed tortilla. Top with chopped onion, cilantro, radishes, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add salsa or hot sauce if desired.
    6. Serve
    Serve the carne asada tacos immediately with extra lime wedges, guacamole, or sliced avocado on the side for added flavor.

Notes

  • Marinating Tip: Marinating the steak for at least an hour ensures the flavors penetrate the meat, but for the best results, marinate the steak for up to 8 hours.
  • Cooking Tip: Don’t overcook the steak! Flank or skirt steak can become tough if cooked beyond medium. A good medium-rare (135°F/57°C) ensures juicy and tender carne asada.
  • Tortilla Warm-Up: To warm tortillas, heat them directly on the grill for about 30 seconds per side or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven.
  • Alternative Toppings: Try adding pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, or crumbled cotija cheese to the tacos for additional texture and flavor.
  • Leftover Idea: If you have leftovers, the carne asada works great in burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for salads.
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