Carne Asada Tacos Recipe: Grilled Perfection for Your Next Taco Night

Taco night is a cherished tradition in many households, offering a delightful way to bring family and friends together over a delicious meal. And what better way to celebrate than with carne asada tacos? These mouthwatering gems are known for their grilled perfection and bold flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey, providing a step-by-step guide on how to create carne asada tacos that are packed with flavor and guaranteed to elevate your next taco night to something truly special. Click here for more info.

Ingredients:

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to make carne asada tacos that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight:

For the Carne Asada Marinade:

2 pounds of flank or skirt steak
1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
For Serving:

Small corn or flour tortillas
1 red onion, finely diced
Fresh cilantro leaves
Sliced radishes
Salsa (salsa fresca or salsa verde)
Lime wedges
With these ingredients on hand, let’s get started on crafting the perfect carne asada tacos for your next taco night.

Step 1: Prepare the Carne Asada Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange and lime juice. These citrus elements not only impart a zesty tang but also help tenderize the meat.

Add the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.

Stir the ingredients until they form a harmonious and aromatic marinade. This flavorful concoction will be the secret to your delicious carne asada.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank or skirt steak in a large, shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.

Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This step is essential to infuse the meat with a burst of flavor.

Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate the steak. Marinating for at least one hour is recommended, but if you have the time, consider letting the meat sit overnight for the deepest flavor penetration and ultimate tenderness.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving the perfect sear and smoky flavor.

Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator and allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures more even cooking and juicier results.

Grill the steak for approximately 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. However, you can adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred level of doneness. Keep in mind that flank and skirt steak are at their best when cooked to medium-rare or medium to maintain their tenderness.

Once the steak is done, transfer it to a cutting board and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This resting period is vital as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and succulent meat.

Step 4: Slice and Assemble the Carne Asada Tacos

Slice the grilled steak thinly against the grain. This technique enhances tenderness and ensures maximum flavor in each bite.

Warm small corn or flour tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until they are soft and slightly charred.

To assemble your carne asada tacos, place slices of the steak onto each tortilla.

Top the steak with diced red onion, fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, and a spoonful of your preferred salsa.

For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.

You’ve now mastered the art of creating carne asada tacos that are grilled to perfection, brimming with flavor, and guaranteed to make your next taco night memorable. The combination of the tangy and aromatic marinade, the seared smoky flavor from the grill, and the fresh and zesty toppings will have your family and friends raving about your culinary prowess. So, whether you’re hosting a fiesta, enjoying a family dinner, or just craving a mouthwatering meal, these carne asada tacos are sure to delight. Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and savor the rich and vibrant flavors of this authentic Mexican classic at your next taco night. Enjoy!