Get ready to transform your backyard barbecue into a Mexican culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This mouthwatering Carne Asada y Adobada isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor journey that combines the bold, tangy essence of traditional Mexican marinades with perfectly grilled beef that melts in your mouth. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a weekend warrior in the kitchen, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine adobo sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, and salt to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
- Place flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or non-reactive dish. Pour marinade over the meat, ensuring complete coverage. Massage marinade into the steak to maximize flavor penetration.
- Refrigerate and marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, preferably 4-6 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight, but do not exceed 12 hours to prevent meat from becoming too acidic.
- Remove steak from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Preheat grill to high heat, approximately 450-500°F. Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove steak from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, turning once. Use tongs to flip and avoid piercing the meat.
- Check internal temperature with meat thermometer: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.
- Remove steak from grill and let rest on cutting board for 5-10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
- Slice meat against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately with warm tortillas, salsa, or your preferred accompaniments.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: The key to incredible flavor is patience. While the recipe suggests 2-6 hours, marinating overnight can develop deeper, more complex tastes. Just be careful not to exceed 12 hours to prevent the acid from breaking down the meat's texture.
- Temperature is Critical: Always let your steak come to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Grill Like a Pro: Use a high heat (450-500°F) and clean, oiled grates to prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks.
- The Resting Rule: Never skip the 5-10 minute resting period after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is incredibly juicy.
- Slicing Technique: Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. This breaks up muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender and easier to chew.Pro tip: Serve with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to complete your authentic Mexican grilling experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
