Here’s an authentic Mexican Carne Asada Marinade—packed with flavor, citrusy, and perfect for grilling steak 🌮🔥
🥩 Mexican Carne Asada Marinade
Ingredients (for 2–3 lbs steak)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh if possible)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1–2 tsp chili powder or smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, minced for extra heat
- Optional: 1 tsp sugar or honey (balances acidity)
Instructions
- Mix Marinade
In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, spices, and optional ingredients. - Prepare Steak
Use flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin. Pat dry. - Marinate
- Place steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Pour marinade over steak, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Seal and refrigerate for 2–8 hours (overnight for maximum flavor).
- Grill
- Preheat grill to high heat.
- Grill steak 3–5 minutes per side (depending on thickness) for medium-rare.
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
✨ Tips
- Acidity balance: citrus tenderizes; don’t marinate more than 12 hours to avoid mushy meat.
- Smoky twist: add a few drops of chipotle in adobo or smoked paprika.
- Serving ideas: slice thin for tacos, burritos, or serve with rice and beans.
If you want, I can also give you:
- Carne Asada Marinade with beer
- Spicy version with extra chilies
- Authentic citrus-heavy version for tacos
- Quick 30-min version for last-minute grilling
Do you want the classic citrus-herb version or the spicy smoky version?
