Homemade carne asada tortas

Homemade Carne Asada Tortas are delicious, hearty sandwiches filled with tender, marinated carne asada, fresh toppings, and a soft, toasted bolillo roll. They are perfect for a satisfying meal and packed with flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own carne asada tortas from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Carne Asada:

• 1.5 to 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)

For the Tortas:

• 4 bolillo rolls (or telera rolls, a traditional Mexican bread for tortas)
• Avocado slices (optional, for added creaminess)
• Lettuce or shredded cabbage (optional, for freshness)
• Tomato slices
• Onion slices (pickled red onions are great for added flavor)
• Jalapeño slices (optional, for extra spice)
• Refried beans (optional, spread on the roll for extra flavor)
• Mayonnaise or Mexican crema (optional, for spreading on the rolls)

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Carne Asada

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, garlic, soy sauce (optional), vinegar, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, olive oil, cilantro, and jalapeños (if using).
2. Marinate the meat: Place the flank steak or skirt steak into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 8 hours for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Carne Asada

1. Grill or sear the steak: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If grilling, cook the carne asada for about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness, for medium-rare to medium doneness. If using a skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat and sear the meat for the same amount of time, making sure to get a nice crust on each side.
2. Rest the meat: After cooking, let the meat rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and tenderness.
3. Slice the meat: Once rested, slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips.

Step 3: Toast the Bolillo Rolls

1. Toast the rolls: Slice the bolillo rolls in half lengthwise. Lightly spread butter or mayonnaise on the cut sides (optional) and toast them on a grill, grill pan, or in a skillet over medium heat until golden and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Tortas

1. Spread condiments: On the bottom half of each toasted bolillo, spread refried beans (optional) or mayonnaise (or Mexican crema) for added creaminess.
2. Add carne asada: Layer the sliced carne asada generously on the bottom half of each roll.
3. Add toppings: Top with avocado slices, tomato slices, onion slices (pickled red onions work great), jalapeño slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired.
4. Close and serve: Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich and press gently to secure everything together. Cut the torta in half for easier handling, and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Bread choice: If you can’t find bolillo rolls, telera rolls are the classic choice for tortas. You can also use soft sub rolls or baguettes if needed.
• Toppings: Customize the toppings based on your preference—lettuce, pickled jalapeños, or even cheese (like cotija) are great additions.
• Make ahead: You can marinate the carne asada the night before for a deeper flavor, and pre-cook the meat and toppings if you want to assemble the tortas quickly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve your Carne Asada Tortas with a side of crispy fries, Mexican rice, or salsa for dipping.
• If you like it extra spicy, drizzle some salsa verde or hot sauce on the inside of the roll.

These Homemade Carne Asada Tortas are full of flavor, with juicy, marinated beef and fresh, vibrant toppings. They’re a perfect Mexican-style sandwich to enjoy with friends and family!