Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these easy carne asada tacos, a delightful blend of marinated flank steak and vibrant toppings wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends.
Photos of Easy Carne Asada Taco Recipe
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be common in every kitchen pantry. Cotija cheese, a crumbly Mexican cheese, adds a unique salty flavor, while ground coriander and ground cumin bring a warm, earthy taste to the marinade. Make sure to check your local supermarket for these items.
Ingredients For Easy Carne Asada Tacos
Canola oil: A mild, neutral oil used to marinate the steak.
Distilled white vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the marinade.
Lime juice: Provides a bright, citrusy note.
Orange juice: Adds sweetness and balances the acidity.
Garlic: Infuses the marinade with a pungent aroma.
Jalapeño: Adds a spicy kick.
Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a burst of freshness.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the steak.
Ground coriander: Offers a warm, citrusy flavor.
Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and depth to the marinade.
Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a sharp, spicy note.
Chili powder: Adds heat and complexity.
Flank steak: The main protein, known for its rich flavor.
White corn tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps for the tacos.
Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado spread.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy richness.
Cotija cheese: Crumbly Mexican cheese with a salty flavor.
One reader, Jessi Burgess says:
This easy carne asada taco recipe is a game-changer! The marinade is bursting with flavor, and the steak comes out perfectly tender. The combination of pico de gallo, guacamole, and cotija cheese makes every bite delicious. A must-try for taco lovers!
Techniques Required for Making Carne Asada Tacos
How to whisk: Use a whisk to combine ingredients until they are evenly mixed and smooth.
How to marinate: Place the steak in a resealable bag with the marinade, ensuring it is evenly coated, and refrigerate for the specified time.
How to bring to a boil: Heat the reserved marinade in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble vigorously.
How to grill steak: Cook the steak on a hot grill pan until it has dark grill marks and is caramelized around the edges.
How to rest meat: Let the cooked steak sit undisturbed for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
How to heat tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a pan over medium-high heat, turning them with tongs until they are softened and slightly browned.
How to slice steak against the grain: Cut the steak perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers to ensure tenderness.
How To Make Easy Carne Asada Taco
Tender meat topped with a flavorful sauce rolled in a crunchy taco shell. This carne asada taco is not only delicious but filling and easy to make.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ⅓cupcanola oil
- ⅓cupdistilled white vinegar
- ⅓cuplime juice,fresh
- ⅓cuporange juice,fresh
- 4tspgarlic,minced
- 3tbspjalapeño,minced
- ¼cupcilantro,fresh, finely chopped, plus whole leaves for serving
- 2tspkosher salt
- 1tspground coriander
- ½tspground cumin
- 1tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 1tspchili powder
- 1lbflank steak
- 8white corn tortillas
- pico de gallo,for serving
- guacamole,for serving
- sour cream,for serving
- cotija cheese,for serving
Instructions
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In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, salt, coriander, cumin, pepper, and chili powder.
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Place the steak in a gallon-size resealable bag. Pour in 1 cup of the marinade and set the rest aside. Seal the bag and shake to evenly coat the steak in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
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In a small saucepan, bring the reserved ½ cup of marinade to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Cook until thickened and reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
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Heat a large grill pan over high heat until very hot. Remove the steak from the bag and discard the marinade. Cook the steak on 1 side until there are dark grill marks and it is beginning to caramelize around the edges, about 6 minutes.
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Flip and cook on the other side for 5 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.
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Working in batches, heat the corn tortillas in a pan over medium-high heat, turning with tongs, until softened and just beginning to brown in spots, about 1 minute per side. Wrap the toasted tortillas in foil to keep warm.
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Thinly slice the steak against the grain, then cut the slices in half. Transfer to a large bowl and toss with the reduced marinade to coat.
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Serve the steak with the warm tortillas, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, cotija cheese, and cilantro leaves, if desired.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 456.91kcal
- Fat: 27.91g
- Saturated Fat: 5.29g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.47g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.59g
- Carbohydrates: 24.16g
- Fiber: 2.92g
- Sugar: 2.35g
- Protein: 26.78g
- Cholesterol: 77.11mg
- Sodium: 591.17mg
- Calcium: 207.72mg
- Potassium: 497.74mg
- Iron: 7.86mg
- Vitamin A: 18.45µg
- Vitamin C: 22.65mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Preparing Carne Asada Tacos
When marinating the flank steak, make sure to massage the marinade into the meat thoroughly before sealing the bag. This helps to ensure that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender carne asada.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Carne Asada Tacos
Marinate overnight: Prepare the marinade the night before and let the steak soak up the flavors while you sleep.
Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro in advance and store them in airtight containers.
Use a grill pan: A grill pan heats up faster than an outdoor grill, saving you time on cooking the steak.
Store-bought pico de gallo: Save time by using store-bought pico de gallo instead of making it from scratch.
Microwave tortillas: Quickly warm the corn tortillas in the microwave instead of a pan.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Carne Asada Taco Recipe
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a richer flavor and is a healthier option with beneficial fats.
distilled white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a milder taste and adds a slight sweetness that complements the marinade.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it is slightly less tangy.
orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice provides a similar sweetness and acidity, adding a tropical twist to the marinade.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic offers a more robust flavor.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but offer a similar flavor profile.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor, though it lacks the distinctive taste of cilantro.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a suitable replacement.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin has a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices in the marinade.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway: Ground caraway has a similar earthy and slightly peppery flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a mild heat and a similar color, though it is less spicy.
flank steak - Substitute with skirt steak: Skirt steak has a similar texture and flavor, making it an excellent alternative for carne asada.
white corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, though they offer a different texture and flavor.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa: Salsa provides a similar combination of tomatoes, onions, and peppers, though it may be more liquid.
guacamole - Substitute with smashed avocado: Smashed avocado offers a similar creamy texture and flavor without the additional ingredients.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture with added protein.
cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a good alternative.
Presentation Ideas for Carne Asada Tacos
Choose a stylish plate: Select a large, white, rectangular plate to provide a clean canvas that highlights the vibrant colors of the carne asada and taco toppings.
Slice the steak precisely: Thinly slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Arrange the slices in a fan shape on one side of the plate.
Warm and fold tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas until they are just beginning to brown in spots. Fold each tortilla in half and place them neatly on the opposite side of the plate from the steak.
Create a trio of toppings: Use small, elegant ramekins to serve pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream. Place these ramekins in a line between the steak and tortillas for easy access.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro leaves over the steak and around the plate for a burst of color and freshness.
Add a touch of cheese: Crumble cotija cheese over the steak slices and tortillas to add a creamy, salty contrast to the dish.
Drizzle with reduced marinade: Lightly drizzle the thickened and reduced marinade over the steak slices to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
Final presentation touch: Place a small lime wedge on the side of the plate for an optional citrus squeeze, adding a final touch of elegance and freshness.
Essential Tools for Making Carne Asada Tacos
Large bowl: Used for whisking together the marinade ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the marinade.
Gallon-size resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly.
Small saucepan: Needed to reduce the reserved marinade.
Grill pan: Perfect for achieving those dark grill marks and caramelization on the steak.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the steak and turning the tortillas.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to let the steak rest and to slice it.
Sharp knife: Necessary for thinly slicing the steak against the grain.
Foil: Keeps the toasted tortillas warm until serving.
Pan: Used to heat the corn tortillas until softened and slightly browned.
Storing and Freezing Carne Asada Tacos
- To store leftover carne asada, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- If you have leftover tortillas, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Leftover pico de gallo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Drain any excess liquid before using.
- Store leftover guacamole in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- To freeze leftover carne asada, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- While it's possible to freeze leftover tortillas, they may lose some of their texture and become slightly brittle. To freeze, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- It's not recommended to freeze leftover pico de gallo or guacamole, as their texture and flavor will be compromised upon thawing.
How To Reheat Leftover Carne Asada Tacos
To reheat leftover carne asada, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the meat in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the meat is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the carne asada in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method is quick and easy, but be careful not to overcook the meat, as it can become tough.
For the tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds or until they're warm and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven alongside the meat for a few minutes.
If you have leftover toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, or sour cream, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When reheating the tacos, remove these toppings from the fridge and let them come to room temperature while the meat and tortillas are heating up.
To assemble the reheated tacos, place the warm carne asada on the heated tortillas and add your desired toppings. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice over the top before serving.
Interesting Fact About Carne Asada Tacos
A key component of this carne asada taco recipe is the marinade, which combines citrus juices, spices, and herbs to tenderize and infuse the flank steak with rich flavors.
Is Making Carne Asada Tacos at Home Cost-Effective?
This carne asada taco recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using flank steak, which is relatively affordable, and common pantry items like canola oil, vinegar, and spices, keeps costs down. Fresh ingredients like lime, orange, cilantro, and jalapeño add vibrant flavors without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 is approximately $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Carne Asada Taco Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The carne asada taco recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:
- The recipe uses canola oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids and may contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess.
- The marinade contains a significant amount of salt, which can lead to high sodium intake if consumed frequently.
- The recipe includes sour cream and cotija cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
However, the recipe also incorporates some healthy elements:
- The marinade includes lime juice, orange juice, and cilantro, which provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
- The use of lean flank steak provides a good source of protein.
- The inclusion of pico de gallo and guacamole adds fresh vegetables and healthy fats to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the canola oil with a healthier alternative like avocado oil or olive oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Reduce the amount of salt in the marinade and opt for low-sodium alternatives like fresh herbs and spices to add flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Choose a low-fat or fat-free version of cotija cheese, or use a smaller amount of the regular variety.
- Increase the amount of fresh vegetables in the taco, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced radishes, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
- Opt for whole grain or sprouted corn tortillas to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Carne Asada Taco Recipe
This carne asada taco recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The marinade, with its citrusy notes and aromatic spices, tenderizes the flank steak beautifully, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite. The reduced marinade adds an extra layer of richness when tossed with the sliced steak. Serving with warm corn tortillas and classic toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and cotija cheese creates a well-rounded and satisfying taco experience. It's straightforward yet delivers a gourmet touch, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
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Why trust this Easy Carne Asada Taco Recipe:
This carne asada taco recipe is a must-try for its authentic flavors and simplicity. The marinade, made with lime juice, orange juice, and jalapeño, ensures the flank steak is tender and flavorful. Cooking the steak to perfection and pairing it with fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and cotija cheese creates a delicious and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of spices and ease of preparation, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
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