Mexican Carne Asada Marinade

Here’s a bold and authentic Mexican Carne Asada Marinade that gives your steak rich, smoky, citrusy flavor—perfect for grilling, tacos, or burrito bowls.

🌮 Authentic Mexican Carne Asada Marinade

🧄 Ingredients:

• 2–3 lbs flank steak or skirt steak

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

• 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (adds umami and salt)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1–2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder or ancho chile powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• 1 tsp oregano (Mexican oregano if available)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (for heat and smokiness)

🔧 Instructions:

1. Mix the Marinade
   In a bowl or resealable bag, combine all marinade ingredients. Stir or shake well.

2. Marinate the Steak
   Add steak to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 8–12 hours. (Don’t go over 24 hours—it can break down the meat too much.)

3. Grill It Right

   • Remove from marinade and let steak come to room temperature (~30 minutes).

   • Grill over high heat for 3–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (depending on thickness).

   • Let rest 5–10 minutes, then slice against the grain.

🔥 Pro Tips:

• Skirt steak is more traditional, but flank steak works well too.

• For an extra charred flavor, don’t wipe off the marinade before grilling.

• Serve with warm tortillas, grilled onions, pico de gallo, or guacamole.