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+ servings
Flank steak slices

Authentic Carne Asada Recipe

Katerina | Diethood
This tender Carne Asada recipe is flavorful and proof that sometimes all you need is a few simple ingredients to make a delicious meal!
Servings : 4 serves
Prep Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup orange juice (no pulp)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro
  • juice from 2 limes
  • juice from 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 Jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • pound flank steak

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine orange juice, olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper, jalapeno, and garlic; whisk until well combined. Reserve ⅓ cup of the marinade; cover the rest and refrigerate.
  • Combine remaining marinade and steak in a large resealable freezer bag; seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
  • Preheat the grill to HIGH heat.
  • Remove steak from marinade and lightly pat dry with paper towels.
  • Add the steak to the preheated grill and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Note that flank steak tastes best when cooked to rare or medium rare because it's a lean cut of steak.
  • Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Then, thinly slice it against the grain, garnish with reserved cilantro mixture, and serve.
Stovetop Method
  • Heat a large cast iron skillet (preferably cast iron grill pan) over high heat until hot. Add steak to the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.

Notes

  • Marinate for Flavor: Always marinate the flank steak - this not only imparts flavor but helps tenderize the meat.
  • High Heat for a Short Time: Flank steak is best cooked quickly over high heat to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
  • Mind the Grain: Always cut flank steak across the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and makes the steak easier to chew.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Once you've grilled the steak, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  • Add Finishing Touches: After grilling, consider squeezing fresh lime juice or sprinkling fresh cilantro over the steak for added flavor.
  • Use Leftovers: Carne Asada is versatile. Use leftovers in tacos, burritos, salads, or quesadillas for a quick and flavorful meal.
Steak Guide to Doneness:
  • 125°F to 130°F internal temperature for RARE
  • 135°F to 140°F internal temperature for MEDIUM RARE
  • 145°F to 150°F internal temperature for MEDIUM to MEDIUM WELL
  • 150°F internal temperature for WELL DONE
  • The FDA recommends that steak be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.

Nutrition

Serving: 4 ounces | Calories: 268 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 15 g | Saturated Fat: 4 g | Cholesterol: 68 mg | Sodium: 257 mg | Potassium: 510 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 4 g | Vitamin A: 143 IU | Vitamin C: 35 mg | Calcium: 46 mg | Iron: 2 mg

Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.

Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: carne asada meat, carne asada recipe, carne asada seasoning, what is carne asada