Original project: I originally created and demonstrated this carne asada taco recipe for SnS Grills on the Slow 'N Sear Kettle. You can see the original SnS Grills recipe page.
Carne asada is a great backyard cook because the marinade brings big flavor while the grill gives the steak the char and texture that makes tacos taste like they came straight from a good taco stand.
Ingredients
- About 2 lb flank steak
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- Handful of chopped cilantro
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas
- Your favorite taco toppings and hot sauce
Marinate the Steak
Combine the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt and pepper. Coat the flank steak thoroughly and refrigerate long enough for the flavors to penetrate without letting the acid dominate the meat.
Set Up the Grill
Prepare a hot direct-heat zone for searing and leave yourself a cooler side in case the steak needs a gentler finish. Flank steak is relatively thin, so it can move from perfect to overdone quickly.
Grill the Carne Asada
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess liquid drip away.
- Sear over high heat until you have strong browning and light char.
- Flip and cook the second side to your preferred doneness.
- Move to indirect heat briefly if the exterior is ready before the center is where you want it.
- Rest the steak before slicing.
Slice Against the Grain
Flank steak has a very obvious grain. Slice across it, not with it, then cut those slices into taco-size pieces. This single step makes a huge difference in tenderness.
Build the Tacos
Warm the corn tortillas on the grill, then fill them with carne asada. Add onion, cilantro, lime, salsa or hot sauce depending on what your family likes.
Tips for Better Carne Asada
- Use high heat for color. Carne asada should have real grilled flavor.
- Do not skip the rest. Give the steak a few minutes before slicing.
- Always cut across the grain. Flank steak gets noticeably easier to chew.
- Warm the tortillas. A hot tortilla is softer, more flexible and tastes better.
BBQ for the everyday family.
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