Mexican Carne Asada Marinade

Mexican Carne Asada Marinade is a flavorful combination of citrus, garlic, spices, and herbs that tenderizes and infuses beef with bold, savory flavors. It’s perfect for marinating skirt steak, flank steak, or other cuts of beef before grilling. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for carne asada marinade:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for added umami)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps balance acidity)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, soy sauce (if using), vinegar, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, cilantro, oregano, sugar, and jalapeños (if using).
2. Mix until the marinade is well combined and the salt has dissolved.

Step 2: Marinate the Meat

1. Prepare the beef: Use flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin for carne asada. You can also use other cuts like rib-eye or hanger steak.
2. Place the meat in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. If using a bag, seal it tightly and massage the marinade into the meat.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally, for 4-8 hours for the best flavor. If you can, marinate overnight.

Step 3: Grill the Carne Asada

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the meat from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
3. Grill the meat for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (for medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F internal temperature).
4. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips.
2. Serve with tortillas, grilled vegetables, rice, beans, or as a topping for tacos or burritos.

Tips:

• Cutting the meat: Always slice against the grain to ensure the meat is tender.
• Extra flavor: You can add extra spices or herbs like chipotle peppers for more heat or green onions for freshness.
• Grill or sear: While grilling gives it a wonderful smoky flavor, you can also sear the meat in a hot cast-iron skillet if you don’t have a grill.

This Mexican Carne Asada Marinade gives your beef a vibrant, zesty, and smoky flavor, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or just a hearty meal on its own. Enjoy!