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Authentic Carne Asada Marinade for Flavorful Grilling

Close-up of juicy, sliced carne asada steak showing a rich glaze, likely from the carne asada marinade.
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This recipe provides an authentic Mexican carne asada marinade, perfect for making skirt or flank steak tender and flavorful for your next grilling session.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds skirt steak or flank steak
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 6–8 limes)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (use 2 for spicy carne asada marinade)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (optional, for citrus carne asada marinade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the steak: If using flank steak, score both sides lightly in a crosshatch pattern. Place the steak in a large, non-reactive dish or a resealable plastic bag.
  2. Mix the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and orange juice if using.
  3. Marinate the meat: Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated.
  4. Refrigerate: Seal the container or bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 12 hours for the best flavor. Do not marinate longer than 12 hours, as the acid can break down the meat too much.
  5. Grill: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Grill over high heat for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness.
  6. Rest and slice: Let the grilled carne asada rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Notes

  • For the best results with skirt steak carne asada marinade, use fresh lime juice.
  • If you want a deeper chili flavor, add 1 tablespoon of chili powder to the marinade mixture.
  • This marinade works well for both flank steak carne asada marinade and skirt steak.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheffinity.com/carne-asada-marinade-recipe-easy-grill/