How to cook carne asada? - Chef's Resource (2024)

Carne asada, which translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish, is a delicious and flavorful dish originating from Mexico. It typically consists of thinly sliced beef, marinated in a mixture of spices and seasonings, grilled to perfection, and served with warm tortillas and various toppings. If you want to learn how to cook carne asada and create an authentic Mexican dining experience right at home, you’ve come to the right place!

How to cook carne asada?

To cook carne asada, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by choosing the right cut of beef. Traditionally, flank steak or skirt steak are used for carne asada.
2. Prepare a marinade by combining lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is coated evenly. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to high heat.
5. Once the grill is hot, remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drain off.
6. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat and desired level of doneness.
7. Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
8. Slice the carne asada thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
9. Serve the carne asada with warm tortillas and your choice of toppings such as chopped onions, fresh cilantro, guacamole, salsa, and lime wedges.

Now that you know how to cook carne asada, let’s address some common FAQs to help you further enhance your understanding of this delicious dish.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for carne asada?

While flank steak and skirt steak are the traditional choices, you can experiment with other cuts like sirloin or hanger steak if desired.

2. How long should I marinate the meat?

For best results, marinate the meat for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will offer a more pronounced flavor.

3. Can I cook carne asada indoors?

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan on high heat for similar results.

4. Can I freeze carne asada?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked carne asada in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

5. Can I overcook carne asada?

Yes, overcooking carne asada can result in tough and chewy meat. It’s best to cook it to medium-rare or medium for optimal tenderness.

6. Can I make carne asada without a marinade?

While the marinade adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat, you can still grill seasoned beef without marinating it beforehand.

7. Can I use bottled marinade instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought marinades, but homemade ones often provide a fresher, more authentic taste.

8. Is there a vegetarian alternative for carne asada?

Yes, you can use grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu as a vegetarian substitute for carne asada.

9. How do I reheat leftover carne asada?

To reheat leftover carne asada, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or briefly grill it until heated through.

10. Can I use the marinade sauce as a serving sauce?

No, it’s not recommended to use the marinade as a serving sauce. However, you can reserve a portion of the marinade and cook it separately to drizzle over the cooked carne asada.

11. Can I make carne asada in the oven?

Yes, you can broil the carne asada in the oven on high heat, following a similar cooking time to grilling.

12. What side dishes go well with carne asada?

Popular side dishes to accompany carne asada include rice, beans, grilled vegetables, Mexican street corn, and a refreshing salad.