I Discovered the SECRET to Perfect Carne Asada in Mazatlan!
As we were “roughing it” in Mazatlan, we just could not resist the urge to film an episode!
Things to know:
What is carne asada?
Carne asada is a Mexican dish of marinated, grilled beef, typically flank or skirt steak, sliced thinly and served with tortillas, salsa, and other toppings like cilantro, onion, and lime. The name means “grilled meat” in Spanish, and the key to its flavor is a marinade of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, which tenderizes the meat before it’s cooked over high heat for a smoky char. It’s a versatile dish, often used in tacos, burritos, and bowls, or enjoyed on its own.
What type of meat is carne asada?
Carne asada is a Mexican dish of marinated, grilled, and thinly sliced beef, typically made from flavorful cuts like skirt steak, flank steak, or flap steak, although other cuts can be used. The name means “grilled meat” in Spanish, referring to the cooking style (often over charcoal) that imparts a smoky, charred flavor, usually enhanced by a citrusy marinade with ingredients like lime, garlic, and spices. It’s served in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish with rice and beans.
What’s the difference between fajitas and carne asada?
Carne is meat , Carne Asada is grilled meat. If you go to a carneceria and buy Carne asada it usually is marinated. Fajitas is just carne with whatever you like to mix it with. Fajitas are the “thing” , and Carne asada is an ingredient for the “thing”.
What goes well with carne asada?
Serve carne asada with classic Mexican sides like rice, beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo, or get creative with street corn (elotes/esquites), grilled jalapeños, spicy slaw, lime-dressed veggies, or even loaded fries for a hearty meal.
What is Mazatlán, Mexico known for?
Mazatlán, the “Pearl of the Pacific,” is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant historic downtown (El Centro) with colonial architecture, lively Zona Dorada tourist zone, fresh seafood (especially shrimp), rich culture including Banda music and the Angela Peralta Theater, Pacifico Brewery, and nearby natural attractions like Deer Island, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern resort amenities.
Ingredients
3 lbs skirt steak
1 small can chipotle in adobo sauce
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chipotle seasoning
5 small or 1 large lime
1 orange
Yellow pepper
Red pepper
White onion
1. Thinly slice the red and yellow pepper and set aside. Thinly slice the white onion and set aside.
2. In a large zip lock back or sealable container add the yellow and red pepper. Squeeze the lime juice into the container. Next squeeze the orange juice into the container and add the orange. Add in the can of chipotle in adobo, 1/2 c. Olive oil, and 1/4 c. Carne asada seasoning. Last step is to add the skirt steak and mix well so that everything is well coated. Now put in fridge and let marinade for 4 hours.
3. Grill the skirt steak on medium heat for 3-4 minutes each side until the meat is medium to medium-well, which will allow it to be tender.
4. After the marinading is complete remove the skirt steak and place on a tray to take to the grill. Remove the orange from the peppers and dispose of it. Now sauté the peppers and onions together until firm but tender.
5. Assemble using a soft shell taco layer the thinly sliced carne asada, sautéed peppers and onions. Feel free to add what ever toppings you would like such as shredded cheese and sour cream. ENJOY!
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