Mexican
Carne Asada
Tender, marinated skirt or flank steak grilled to perfection with a charred exterior, perfect for tacos or served with rice and beans.
Watch it madeSAM THE COOKING GUY · 5:10
Ingredients
- Flank steak or Skirt steak2 lbs
- Lime juice1/4 cup
- Orange juice1/4 cup
- Soy sauce2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (minced)4
- Cilantro (chopped)1/2 bunch
- Cumin1 tsp
- Chili powder1 tsp
Method
- Whisk together lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder.
- Place the steak in a bag with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours.
- Preheat an outdoor grill or cast-iron skillet to high heat.
- Grill the steak for 3-5 minutes per side until charred on the outside and medium-rare to medium inside.
- Let the meat rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
Common questions
Can I substitute flank steak for skirt steak in carne asada, and do I need to change the cooking time?
Yes. Flank steak and skirt steak both work well. Skirt steak is thinner and usually cooks faster, while flank is a bit thicker. Start checking early; aim for medium-rare to medium and slice very thinly against the grain.
How long should I marinate carne asada, and is overnight too long?
Marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours for good flavor without mushy texture. Overnight is usually too long with citrus-based marinades because the acid can make the meat soft and mealy.
What are the most common mistakes when grilling carne asada?
The biggest mistakes are over-marinating, cooking over too low heat, and slicing the steak with the grain. You want a very hot grill or skillet for char, and then a short rest before thin slicing.
How should I store leftover carne asada, and how long does it keep?
Cool it quickly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced steak for up to 2 months. Reheat gently so it stays tender.
What should I serve with carne asada?
It’s great in warm tortillas with onions, cilantro, salsa, and lime. You can also serve it with rice, beans, grilled peppers, avocado, or as a topping for salads and bowls. Keep sides simple so the steak stays the focus.