Carne Asada Tacos (2024)

FAQs

What cut of meat is used for carne asada tacos? ›

In Central and South America, we call pretty much any barbecued or grilled meat asado (or carne asada). The BEST cuts for the Mexican version of the dish we all know and love are either skirt steak or flank steak. Personally, I prefer skirt steak (pictured).

Combine soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, orange slices, lime juice, orange juice, Worcestershire sauce, cilantro, garlic, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt in a large bowl and whisk to combine.

"Carne asada" directly translates to "grilled meat" in Spanish. The term can reference the meat types themselves, or the festive barbecue event where loved ones gather to grill. While carne asada can denote various grilled proteins, like pork and sausages, it often specifically alludes to the steak.

In Spanish, Carne literally means “flesh/meat/beef” and Asada means “roast/broiled/grilled,” so “grilled meat.” When it comes to “carne asada” in cooking, the term refers to grilled and sliced beef, usually skirt, flank or flap steak.

Skirt steak is the cut of choice for carne asada throughout Southern California and it's my favorite too. But if you can't find it, you can substitute flap, flank, hanger, or top round (London broil). Skirt is the flattest of the cuts, so it doesn't take long to marinate or cook.

Can you marinate carne asada too long? Yes, there is such a thing as marinating meat for too long. Remember that there is acid in lemon and lime juice. After more than a few hours, that acid will start breaking down the meat, leaving you with a gritty, mealy, or mushy texture.

Key Takeaway: While there are risks to eating grilled red meat like carne asada, it can still be part of a healthy meal in the context of your overall balanced diet. Carne asada is a good source of iron, and zinc. Pair with corn tortillas, plenty of veggies, and beans for a balanced meal.

Chipotle's carne asada is always made with skirt steak, ensuring that it's consistently juicy and tender. It's then cut into thin slices rather than cubes.

Carnitas is made with pork that has been braised or slow-cooked until it's fork-tender. Carne asada is made with beef that has been grilled to perfection.

Fajitas and carne asada both involve the use of grilled meat, but differ significantly in preparation, presentation and traditional ingredients. Cooks using fajita strips typically season them and grill them along with sliced bell peppers and onions.

What kind of meat is carne asada at Mexican restaurant? ›

Let's start with the basics—carne asada is a traditional Mexican dish composed of marinated skirt steak or flank steak that has been grilled and thinly sliced. The term carne asada in Spanish translates to roasted or grilled meat in English.

Carne asada is grilled and sliced beef, usually skirt steak, flap steak, or flank steak though chuck steak (known as diezmillo in Spanish) can also be used. It is usually marinated then grilled or seared to impart a charred flavor.

Carne Asada is the most common taco meat. Photo by Travis Yewell on Unsplash. Carne Asada is certainly the most popular meat for tacos, and it's plain to see why.