Chinese-style Carne Asada Tacos

Ingredients

While the original Mexican Carne Asada Tacos feature traditional Mexican seasonings and ingredients, this Chinese adaptation incorporates Chinese spices and flavors. The marinade is infused with soy sauce, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder, giving the beef a distinct Asian twist. Additionally, the toppings and garnishes are modified to include Chinese vegetables and sauces, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Carne asada tacos, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) flank steak 500g (1.1 lb) flank steak
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 8 small flour tortillas 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup julienned carrots 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced scallions 1/2 cup sliced scallions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Sriracha sauce, for serving Sriracha sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 6g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
4. 4.
   Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
5. 5.
   Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or on the grill for a few seconds on each side.
6. 6.
   Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of grilled steak on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, julienned carrots, sliced scallions, and chopped cilantro.
7. 7.
   Drizzle with Sriracha sauce for an extra kick of heat.
8. 8.
   Serve the Chinese-style Carne Asada Tacos immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flank steak — For tender and juicy results, make sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain after grilling.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can create a substitute by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the steak overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of Chinese chili flakes or a few drops of chili oil to the marinade.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced cucumbers, bean sprouts, or pickled radishes for added crunch and freshness.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the steak on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• To make it a complete meal, serve the Chinese-style Carne Asada Tacos with a side of steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Carne Asada Tacos on a platter, allowing your guests to assemble their own tacos. Provide extra Sriracha sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat. Pair the tacos with a refreshing cucumber and mint salad to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced grilled steak, colorful vegetables, and vibrant garnishes neatly on the tortillas. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a pop of green. Serve the tacos on a wooden board or a colorful plate to enhance the visual appeal.