What Is Carne Asada?

Want to take your taco Tuesday up a notch? Carne asada is the answer. It's a favorite filling for street tacos, but you don't need to visit a taco truck to enjoy it. Learn everything you need to know about carne asada, including the best way to marinate it for maximum flavor.

What Is Carne Asada?

Carne asada, which translates to 'grilled meat' in English, is a beef dish. The traditional preparation involves marinating one-inch-thick steaks in lime juice and spices, grilling them to perfection, and then slicing them into thin strips.

Carne asada can be served as a main dish alongside rice and beans, or used as a delicious filling for tacos or burritos.

What Cut of Meat Is Carne Asada?

Various cuts of beef can be used for carne asada, including tenderloin, strip steak (New York steak), skirt steak, flank steak, rib steak, or sirloin flap steak.

What Is Carne Asada Seasoning?

Carne asada seasoning is a dry rub that typically includes salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, onion and garlic powder, chili powder, and (smoked) paprika. It's combined with lime juice and other flavorings before being applied to the meat and left to marinate for several hours or overnight. You can find premade carne asada seasoning in the spice aisle, or make your own blend.

What's the Difference Between Carne Asada and Carne Guisada?

While both are beef-based, carne asada and carne guisada are quite different. The key distinctions lie in the type of meat, the cooking technique, and the time required to prepare. Carne guisada is a slow-cooked beef stew, typically made from beef chuck or round, simmered at low heat until tender. It's perfect for preparing in a slow cooker.

What Are Carne Asada Fries?

A Southern Californian creation, carne asada fries are made by topping crispy French fries with carne asada, melted cheese, and serving it all with guacamole and sour cream.

How to Make Carne Asada

Recipe: Lisa's Favorite Carne Asada

Fresh citrus juices are blended with olive oil, chipotle peppers, spices, and freshly chopped cilantro. "I've experimented with many carne asada marinades, but this one is our family's top choice!" says recipe creator Lisa Arlotti. Check out the full recipe!