carne asada taco recipe
The Best carne asada taco recipe
Classic Carne Asada Tacos with Grilled Steak
A simple yet flavorful recipe for tender carne asada served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix olive oil with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat the steak evenly with the spice mixture. -
2
Let the steak sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking. Heat a grill or grill pan to high. Grill the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches 130°F internally. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. -
3
While the steak rests, prepare the toppings: shred lettuce, dice tomatoes, and chop cilantro. Slice lime wedges. -
4
To serve, warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side. Fill each tortilla with sliced carne asada, then top with lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime wedges.
🔧Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Oven-safe skillet
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Carne Asada Tacos with Grilled Steak Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Asada Tacos with Grilled Steak
How do I marinate the carne asada for extra tenderness?
Marinate the thinly sliced steak in a mix of lime juice, olive oil, and your choice of spices (like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder) for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight in the fridge. For deeper flavor, add a pinch of salt and a small amount of honey or brown sugar to caramelize the sugars during cooking.
Can I use pre-cooked carne asada instead of fresh steak?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time. If using pre-cooked steak, sear it quickly in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side to restore the crust. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
What’s the best way to keep my tacos fresh after assembling?
Store assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 hours. If making ahead, keep ingredients separate (meat, toppings, and sauce) and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Should I grill or pan-fry the carne asada?
For a smoky flavor, grill the steak directly over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally. If using a skillet, heat it well and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, basting with oil to prevent sticking. Grilling gives a more authentic taste, but pan-frying works too.
What can I substitute for lime juice in the marinade?
If you don’t have lime juice, use lemon juice or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. For a slightly sweeter balance, mix in a small amount of honey or agave syrup. The key is to keep the marinade tangy to tenderize the meat.
