Quick Grilled Carne Asada with Mesquite Smoke and Spices
This authentic-style carne asada features tender skirt steak marinated with mesquite liquid smoke and a bold spice blend of cumin, cayenne, and pepper. The meat is quickly grilled over high heat to develop a beautiful char while keeping the interior juicy. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or serving alongside rice and beans for a complete Mexican-inspired meal. The optional marinating step enhances the smoky flavor, while the final lime juice adds a bright acidic finish that cuts through the rich beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound skirt steakflank steak1:1
Similar texture and flavor
- 1 tablespoon mesquite liquid smokechipotle powder1 tablespoon:1/2 teaspoonsmoky
Different type of smoke flavor
- 1 heavy pinch salt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 lime
Instructions
- 1
Mix together salt and liquid smoke, and apply to the meat
- 2
Place in refrigerator lightly covered for 2 to 5 hours if desired
- 3
Preheat grill on high heat
- 4
Mix together pepper, cumin, and cayenne
- 5
Pat meat dry with paper towels
- 6
Coat steak in vegetable oil and rub with spice mixture
- 7
Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side
- 8
Let rest for 10 minutes
- 9
Slice and drizzle with lime juice before serving
Tips
Let the steak rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness
Slice against the grain for the most tender bite
Use high heat for a good sear while keeping the interior from overcooking
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked carne asada for up to 3 days in airtight container
Can marinate meat up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor
Serve immediately after slicing for best texture and temperature
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the resting period to avoid dry, tough meat
Avoid overcooking to prevent chewy texture
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, flank steak works well as a substitute. Avoid thicker cuts like ribeye as they won't cook properly with this quick method.
What if I don't have liquid smoke?
You can substitute with chipotle powder for smoky flavor, or simply omit it and rely on the grill for smokiness.
How long does cooked carne asada keep?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, it will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.