Picture this: sizzling carne asada tacos, their warm tortillas cradling juicy, perfectly seasoned beef topped with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. The aroma wafts through the air, making your mouth water and your heart race in anticipation of that first heavenly bite.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What are carne asada tacos made of?
- How do you season carne asada for tacos?
- Can I make carne asada tacos ahead of time?
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where Sunday family gatherings meant feasting on these delightful tacos. The laughter, the chatter, and those unforgettable flavors created a beautiful tapestry of memories that still linger today. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, carne asada tacos are the perfect excuse to gather friends and family around the table for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These carne asada tacos come together faster than you can say “Where’s the salsa?” Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu taco parties
- Bursting with a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds doing the cha-cha, each bite is a fiesta on your plate
- With their colorful toppings and sizzling beef, they’re practically begging to be photographed for Instagram
- These tacos are flexible enough to cater to every palate—add guac, cheese, or even pineapple if you’re feeling adventurous!
I still remember the smiles at our backyard barbecue when I served carne asada tacos, a hit with everyone!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make carne asada tacos:
-
Flank Steak: Select a well-marbled flank steak for tenderness and flavor in your carne asada tacos.
-
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the grilled meat perfectly.
-
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick to the tacos.
-
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for marinating; their pungent flavor is essential in carne asada.
-
Jalapeño Peppers: Add sliced jalapeños for heat; choose according to your preferred spice level.
-
Corn Tortillas: Opt for small, soft corn tortillas to wrap around the flavorful filling easily.
-
Onion: Diced onion provides crunch and sweetness; consider using white or red onions based on taste preference.
-
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are crucial; use them generously to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
-
Avocado: Sliced avocado brings creaminess and balances the spiciness of the jalapeños beautifully.
-
Sour Cream or Crema: A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema adds richness and a cooling effect to each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinating the Meat: Start by combining the marinade ingredients in a bowl: lime juice, garlic, cumin, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended. Add your flank steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour; overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
Cooking the Carne Asada: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated steak on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until you achieve a nice sear and an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. The aroma will be irresistible!
Slicing the Steak: After removing the carne asada from the heat, let it rest for about 10 minutes to lock in juices. Use a sharp knife to slice against the grain into thin strips. This technique ensures each bite remains tender and flavorful.
Preparing Toppings: While the meat rests, chop fresh cilantro, dice onions, and slice limes. Consider roasting your tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until warm and slightly charred. This adds a lovely texture and enhances flavor.
Assembling the Tacos: Lay a few slices of carne asada in each warmed tortilla. Top with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. Feel free to add salsa or avocado if desired; these additions complement the tacos beautifully.
Serving Suggestions: Arrange your carne asada tacos on a platter and serve immediately while they’re warm. Pair them with your favorite sides like rice or beans for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate your carne asada for at least four hours, or even overnight if possible
- Let your meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender
- Warm your tortillas on a skillet to enhance their flavor and texture before assembling your tacos
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best carne asada tacos, start by marinating the beef for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor. Sear the steak on a hot grill for about 5 to 7 minutes per side at 450°F, then let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. While the meat rests, warm your tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds each.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to personalize your carne asada tacos by swapping out the proteins. Chicken or shrimp make delicious alternatives. Experiment with seasonings too; try adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick. For extra crunch, top with radishes or fresh avocado slices to elevate your tacos.
Storing & Reheating
To store carne asada tacos, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, use an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQ
What are carne asada tacos made of?
Carne asada tacos typically include grilled beef, fresh tortillas, and toppings like onions, cilantro, and salsa.
How do you season carne asada for tacos?
Season carne asada with garlic, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder for a robust flavor.
Can I make carne asada tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef and prepare toppings in advance for quicker assembly later.
Carne Asada Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Combine lime juice, garlic, cumin, and olive oil in a bowl. Whisk until well blended. Add flank steak, ensuring it's fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour; overnight is better.
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Place the marinated steak on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until you achieve a nice sear and an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
- After removing the carne asada from the heat, let it rest for about 10 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Chop fresh cilantro, dice onions, and slice limes. Roast tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until warm and slightly charred.
- Lay a few slices of carne asada in each warmed tortilla. Top with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add salsa or avocado if desired.
