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Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1-2 hours (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4-5 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Carne Asada Tacos are a classic Mexican dish featuring flavorful grilled beef, usually served in soft corn tortillas with toppings like cilantro, onions, salsa, and lime. The marinade and grilling process give the meat a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh taco fillings.


Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 8-10 small corn tortillas
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, radishes, additional cilantro, and onions


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and chopped cilantro. Mix well.
  2. Place the flank or skirt steak in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  4. Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is ideal for carne asada).
  5. Let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  6. While the steak rests, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side.
  7. Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of carne asada on each tortilla. Top with chopped onions, cilantro, and optional toppings like salsa, avocado, or radishes.
  8. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce as toppings.
  • You can substitute the flank steak with skirt steak or another cut of beef, but flank steak is typically preferred for its tenderness and flavor.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the carne asada on a stovetop grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.