Name: Homemade Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 1 lb (454g) flank steak or skirt steak, trimmed of excess fat• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil• 2 cloves garlic, minced• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin• 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper• 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed• Toppings: diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, etc.

Pin1

1 Shares

Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure with this Homemade Carne Asada Tacos Recipe! Juicy, marinated steak sizzles on the grill, filling the air with the intoxicating aroma of charred, seasoned beef. Wrapped in warm, soft tortillas and piled high with vibrant toppings, these tacos are a true culinary celebration.

Growing up, I spent countless summer evenings gathered around the family table, eagerly awaiting the arrival of my abuela’s legendary carne asada tacos. The sound of the sizzling steak, the tantalizing blend of spices, and the chorus of laughter and conversation – it’s a memory that has been seared into my heart forever. Now, I’m thrilled to share this beloved family recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and flavor that I cherish so deeply.

Prepare to embark on a flavor journey like no other. This Homemade Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is a true masterpiece, blending the bold, smoky essence of grilled steak with the freshness of homemade toppings and the comfort of warm, soft tortillas. Get ready to be the hero of taco night and leave your guests begging for more.

🌟 Reasons This Recipe Will Become a Favorite

What sets this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe apart is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The tender, juicy steak is marinated in a blend of citrus, spices, and herbs, resulting in a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. The charred, caramelized exterior of the steak provides a delightful contrast to the soft, pillowy tortillas and the vibrant, crunchy toppings.

But it’s not just the taste that makes this recipe a standout. The ease of preparation is another key factor. With a simple marinade and a quick grill session, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. This makes it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

🛒 Ingredients: Your Shopping List

• 1 lb (454g) flank steak or skirt steak, trimmed of excess fat
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
• Toppings: diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, etc.

The key to this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is the marinade. The combination of citrus juices, garlic, and spices infuses the steak with a vibrant, Latin-inspired flavor profile that perfectly complements the charred exterior. By marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours), you’ll ensure that every bite is bursting with juicy, flavorful goodness.

📖 Follow These Steps for Flawless Results

Marinate the Steak: In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, combine the orange juice, lime juice, vegetable oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the steak and turn to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours, turning the steak occasionally.
Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the steak for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
Warm the Tortillas: While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas according to the package instructions, either in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the Tacos: Divide the grilled steak evenly among the warm tortillas. Top with your desired toppings, such as diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, and guacamole.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

💪 Understanding the Nutritional Value

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 4 servings.

• Calories: 407 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 5 g

🔄 Creative Twists & Variations

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of traditional flour tortillas.
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the steak with grilled or sautéed portobello mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the marinade to suit your protein of choice.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeño or serrano peppers to the marinade, or top the tacos with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.

🎉 Elevate Your Meal with These Serving Tips

• Main Course Pairing: Serve the Carne Asada Tacos alongside a fresh, vibrant salad or a hearty side of Mexican-style rice and beans.
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the tacos with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco, a dollop of sour cream, and a few crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Mexican lager or a refreshing lime-infused sparkling water.

⚠️ How to Sidestep Common Cooking Pitfalls ?

• Mistake 1 – Overcrowding the Pan: When grilling the steak, be sure not to overcrowd the grill or grill pan. Overcrowding will steam the steak instead of searing it, resulting in a gray, boiled texture. Cook the steak in batches if necessary to maintain a high heat and achieve that perfect char.
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Allowing the steak to come to room temperature before grilling will help it cook more evenly and prevent the outside from overcooking while the inside remains undercooked. Similarly, using room-temperature tortillas will prevent them from becoming brittle and cracking when assembling the tacos.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Grill: Ensure that your grill or grill pan is fully preheated before adding the steak. This will help create a nice sear and lock in the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.

🥡 Smart Storage for Maximum Flavor

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover grilled steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Carne asada can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the steak to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. When ready to use, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat the steak, place it in a hot skillet or on a grill for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature.

❓ FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak or skirt steak are the traditional choices for carne asada, you can use other cuts like hanger steak, flap meat, or even thinly sliced sirloin. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time and cooking time as needed, as different cuts may have varying levels of tenderness and cooking requirements.

How can I make the tacos extra crispy?

For extra crispy taco shells, try lightly frying the corn tortillas in a bit of oil before assembling the tacos. This will create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender steak and soft tortilla. Alternatively, you can brush the tortillas with a bit of oil and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden and crispy.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Absolutely! The steak can be marinated up to 8 hours in advance, and the toppings like diced onion, chopped cilantro, and salsa can be prepared a day or two ahead of time. This makes it easy to quickly assemble the tacos when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store the components separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.

How do I know when the steak is cooked to perfection?

The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness is to use a digital meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (55-57°C). For medium, shoot for 140-145°F (60-63°C). Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook a bit as it rests, so you may want to pull it off the grill a few degrees shy of your target temperature.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can easily prepare the carne asada in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated steak on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Roast for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the steak reaches your desired doneness. Then, slice and assemble the tacos as directed.

💌 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the perfect Homemade Carne Asada Tacos, it’s time to gather your friends and family and dive into this flavor-packed fiesta. Savor the juicy, charred steak, the warm, soft tortillas, and the vibrant toppings, and let the aroma and flavors transport you to the heart of Mexico. Buen provecho!

If you try this recipe, be sure to let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations. Tag me on social media or leave a comment below. ¡Salud!