Mexican Carne Asada Marinade

Here’s an authentic and flavorful Mexican Carne Asada Marinade that’ll give your steak bold, juicy, smoky flavor — perfect for grilling, tacos, burrito bowls, or street-style plates. 🇲🇽🔥🥩

🌮 Classic Mexican Carne Asada Marinade

Ingredients (for 1.5–2 lbs of steak)

• 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (2–3 limes)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for mild heat)

• 1 small bunch of cilantro, chopped (about 1/3 cup packed)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked, if possible)

• 1 teaspoon oregano (Mexican oregano, if available)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Salt to taste (start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon)

🥩 Best Cuts to Use

• Skirt steak (classic)

• Flank steak

• Flat iron steak

🔪 Instructions

1. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl or a zip-top bag.

2. Add steak, coat well, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally 6–8 hours. (Don’t go overnight — the citrus can start to break down the meat too much.)

3. Remove steak from marinade, pat dry for better sear.

4. Grill over high heat (about 3–5 minutes per side depending on thickness).

5. Let rest, then slice against the grain.

✅ Tips

• Want more depth? Add 2 tablespoons of beer or a splash of cola to the marinade (common in some regions of Mexico).

• No grill? You can sear in a hot cast-iron skillet or grill pan.

• Serve with: grilled onions, charred tortillas, avocado, salsa, and lime.