In the mood for a flavorful and hearty dish? Look no further than chopped carne asada cooked in a skillet. This classic Mexican dish is easy to make and packed with delicious flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

What is carne asada?

Carne asada is a traditional Mexican dish made with thinly sliced or chopped beef that is typically marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices and citrus juices. The beef is then grilled or cooked in a skillet until tender and served in tacos, burritos, or on its own with a side of rice and beans. It is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine known for its bold and vibrant flavors.

Why cook chopped carne asada in a skillet?

Cooking chopped carne asada in a skillet is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful dish without needing a grill. The skillet allows for even heat distribution, resulting in a perfectly cooked and tender meat. Additionally, the skillet helps to lock in the flavors of the marinade, creating a rich and savory taste. Whether you live in an apartment without access to a grill or simply prefer the ease of skillet cooking, this method is a great alternative for preparing carne asada at home.

Ready to give it a try? Follow our step-by-step guide below to learn how to cook chopped carne asada in a skillet.

Overview of Carne Asada

Carne asada is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine that is made with thinly sliced or chopped beef. The term “carne asada” translates to “grilled meat” in English, and it is traditionally cooked over an open flame or on a grill. However, it can also be cooked in a skillet for a quick and easy meal.

Carne asada is typically made using cuts of beef such as flank steak or skirt steak, which are known for their tenderness and robust flavor. The beef is marinated in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, spices, and herbs to enhance its flavor and tenderize the meat.

Benefits of Cooking Carne Asada in a Skillet

1. Enhanced Flavors:

When you cook carne asada in a skillet, the direct contact with the heat source intensifies the flavors of the meat. The skillet helps to sear the meat quickly, creating a deliciously caramelized exterior while retaining the juiciness of the interior.

2. Quick and Convenient:

Using a skillet to cook carne asada is a quick and convenient method. You don’t need to fire up the grill or preheat an oven. Simply heat the skillet, cook the meat, and you’re ready to serve a tasty meal in no time.

3. Versatility:

A skillet provides versatility when cooking carne asada. You can easily control the heat levels and adjust them according to your desired level of doneness. This allows you to cook the meat to perfection, whether you prefer it rare, medium, or well-done.

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4. Easy Cleanup:

Cooking carne asada in a skillet means less cleanup compared to grilling. There are no grates or racks to scrub, and any drippings or marinade can be easily managed in the skillet. Simply wash the skillet, and you’re done!

5. Indoor Cooking:

Not everyone has access to an outdoor grill or enjoys grilling in unfavorable weather conditions. By cooking carne asada in a skillet, you can enjoy this delicious dish indoors, regardless of the weather.

6. Intimate Cooking Experience:

Cooking carne asada in a skillet allows you to have a more hands-on experience with the meat. You can easily monitor the cooking process, adjust the seasoning as needed, and achieve a deep, rich flavor profile.

7. Economical:

Cooking carne asada in a skillet requires minimal equipment and ingredients, making it an economical choice. You can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Overall, using a skillet to cook chopped carne asada offers numerous benefits, including enhanced flavors, quick and convenient cooking, versatility, easy cleanup, indoor cooking options, an intimate cooking experience, and economic advantages.

Ingredients for Chopped Carne Asada

To cook chopped carne asada in a skillet, you will need:

1 pound of flank steak

2 tablespoons of olive oil

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of ground cumin

1 teaspoon of chili powder

1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1 lime, juiced

1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup of red onion, finely diced

Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese

Note: You can adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When it comes to cooking chopped carne asada in a skillet, the cut of meat you choose is crucial. Different cuts of beef have different textures and flavors, so it’s important to select one that is suitable for cooking in a skillet.

Tender Cuts

Tender cuts of beef are ideal for cooking in a skillet as they require less time to cook and are naturally juicy and flavorful. Some popular tender cuts that work well for chopped carne asada include:

  • Ribeye
  • New York strip
  • Tenderloin
  • Sirloin

These cuts are known for their tenderness and will give your chopped carne asada a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Lean Cuts

If you prefer a leaner option, there are several cuts of beef that are lower in fat but still work well for chopped carne asada. These lean cuts include:

  • Flank steak
  • Skirt steak
  • Top round

While these cuts may not be as tender as the previously mentioned ones, they are still great choices for cooking in a skillet and will provide a tasty and healthier alternative.

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When selecting your cut of meat, look for marbling, which refers to the thin lines of fat running throughout the muscle. A good amount of marbling will enhance the juiciness and flavor of your chopped carne asada.

Remember that the key to cooking delicious chopped carne asada is to choose a cut of meat that suits your preferences and ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. So whether you opt for a tender cut or a lean one, the right choice of meat will make all the difference in your skillet-cooked carne asada.

Other Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 pounds of carne asada, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced

Preparing the Marinade

To make the marinade for your chopped carne asada, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons of orange juice
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir well to mix the ingredients together.

Step 2: Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir again until all the ingredients are well combined.

Marinating the Meat

Step 3: Place the chopped carne asada in a glass dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is fully submerged. If using a zip-top bag, seal it tightly to prevent any leaks.

Step 4: Refrigerate the marinating meat for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it tender and flavorful.

Note: You can also marinate the meat in a large resealable plastic bag. Just make sure to place it in a dish to catch any potential leaks during marinating.

Gathering the Marinade Ingredients

To make a delicious marinated carne asada, you will need to gather the following ingredients:

1. Meat:

Choose about 1 pound of thinly sliced beef steak, such as flank or skirt steak. This type of meat is perfect for carne asada as it offers great tenderness and flavor.

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2. Citrus juice:

You will need the juice of 2 limes and 1 orange. The acidity from the citrus fruits will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with a tangy taste.

3. Garlic:

Mince 4 cloves of fresh garlic to add a robust and aromatic flavor to the marinade.

4. Seasonings:

Combine 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of salt to create a flavorful spice blend for the marinade.

5. Oil:

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help distribute the flavors and prevent the meat from sticking to the skillet while cooking.

6. Optional ingredients:

If you prefer a spicier marinade, you can include 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced. Additionally, you can add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a hint of umami flavor.

Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, you are ready to proceed to the next step of marinating the meat.

Q&A

What is the recipe for chopped carne asada?

The recipe for chopped carne asada typically includes steak, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and olive oil.

How do I cook chopped carne asada in a skillet?

To cook chopped carne asada in a skillet, start by heating olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated and chopped carne asada to the skillet and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.

What type of steak should I use for chopped carne asada?

Skirt steak is the most commonly used cut of beef for chopped carne asada. It is a flavorful and tender cut that works well in this dish.

Can I marinate the carne asada overnight?

Yes, marinating the carne asada overnight will help to infuse it with more flavor. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator while it marinates.

What are some serving suggestions for chopped carne asada?

Chopped carne asada can be served in a variety of ways. Some popular options include tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or on top of a salad. You can also serve it with rice, beans, and tortillas for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

What is carne asada?

Carne asada is a Mexican dish made from thinly sliced or chopped marinated beef, typically cooked on a grill or skillet. It is usually served as a main course or used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.

Can I cook chopped carne asada in a skillet?

Yes, you can cook chopped carne asada in a skillet. To do so, heat some oil in the skillet, add the chopped carne asada, and cook it over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through.