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Easy & Authentic Carne Asada Tacos

Savor Easy & Authentic Carne Asada Tacos for a Fiesta Night

Easy & Authentic Carne Asada Tacos are a must-try, bursting with flavor for a delightful gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Substitution: Avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice Substitution: Lemon juice can be used if oranges are unavailable.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice No direct substitution recommended for best taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Cloves Substitution: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh is preferred for flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin Substitution: Coriander for a different spice nuance.
  • 2 teaspoons Chili Powder Substitution: Paprika for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Substitution: Regular paprika for less smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Substitution: Italian seasoning can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Ad libitum according to personal preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Ad libitum according to personal preference.
For the Tacos
  • 1.5 lbs Flank or Skirt Steak Substitution: Ribeye for more fat or tender cuts.
  • 6 small Corn or Flour Tortillas Substitution: Lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 Ripe Avocados No direct substitution; however, guacamole works similarly.
  • 3 tablespoons Cotija Cheese or Queso Fresco Substitution: Feta cheese for a different zing.
  • 1/3 cup White or Yellow Onion, finely diced Substitution: Red onion for a sharper taste.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, roughly chopped Substitution: Parsley if cilantro is not preferred.
  • 1 Fresh Lime Wedges No substitution needed.
Optional Toppings
  • Pico de Gallo For a fresh and zesty touch.
  • Sliced Radishes Adds a crunchy texture.
  • Lime Crema For a creamy tang.
  • Chipotle Sauce A kick of heat for adventurous palates.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Resealable Plastic Bag
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Place the flank or skirt steak into a resealable plastic bag or bowl, pour the marinade over, and ensure it's coated evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
  2. Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Once hot, place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish. Look for a nice caramelization and grill marks forming, ensuring the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
  3. Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-8 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping the juices sealed inside the meat. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, then chop these pieces into bite-sized morsels, ready to fill your carne asada tacos.
  4. As you prepare the meat, warm the corn or flour tortillas. You can do this by briefly heating them over a gas flame or in a dry skillet over medium heat, just until soft and lightly charred—about 30 seconds per side. Once warmed, stack the tortillas and wrap them in a clean towel to keep them warm and pliable for assembly.
  5. To assemble your easy & authentic carne asada tacos, begin by mashing ripe avocado onto each warm tortilla. Add a generous portion of the sliced carne asada on top. Sprinkle with cotija cheese and diced onion, then top with freshly chopped cilantro. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the fillings enhances the freshness beautifully.
  6. Arrange the assembled tacos on a serving platter. If desired, include optional toppings like pico de gallo, sliced radishes, lime crema, or chipotle sauce for added flavor and texture. These carne asada tacos are now ready to be served, offering a delightful experience of vibrant flavors and deliciousness, perfect for any gathering.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the steak overnight. Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling and slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

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