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Carne Asada Tacos

Tender grilled steak marinated in citrus and spices, served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade and Meat
  • 2 pounds flank or skirt steak sliced into strips about half an inch thick
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice about 4 to 5 limes
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons cumin
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
  • 1 jalapeno minced (optional for extra heat)
For Serving
  • 8 to 12 warm corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Diced white onion
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Avocado or guacamole
  • Salsa roja or pico de gallo

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Shallow dish or zip-top bag
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Slice the steak against the grain into 1/2-inch thick strips.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the steak strips to the marinade and toss to coat all pieces evenly.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
  5. Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
  6. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot, about 5 minutes.
  7. Working in batches, place the steak strips on the hot surface and cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 130°F to 135°F.
  9. Transfer the cooked steak to a serving platter and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  10. While the meat rests, warm the tortillas on the grill or over an open flame for about 30 seconds per side.
  11. Assemble the tacos by placing sliced steak on warm tortillas and topping with diced onion, cilantro, lime wedges, guacamole, and salsa as desired.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; save any leftover marinade for drizzling over cooked meat.