Cuban-style Carne Asada Tacos

Ingredients

While the original Mexican Carne Asada Tacos are typically seasoned with Mexican spices and served with salsa and guacamole, this Cuban adaptation infuses the dish with Cuban flavors. The marinade incorporates Cuban spices like cumin and oregano, and the tacos are garnished with tangy pickled onions and a zesty lime crema, adding a distinct Cuban flair. We alse have the original recipe for Carne asada tacos, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) flank steak 1.5 lbs (680g) flank steak
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) orange juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) orange juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
• 8 small corn tortillas 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup (235ml) pickled onions 1 cup (235ml) pickled onions
• 1/2 cup (120ml) lime crema 1/2 cup (120ml) lime crema
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the steak is well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
4. 4.
   Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
5. 5.
   Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or stovetop until pliable.
6. 6.
   Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of grilled steak on each tortilla. Top with pickled onions, a drizzle of lime crema, and fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve the Cuban-style Carne Asada Tacos immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flank steak — For a tender and juicy result, make sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain after grilling.
• Pickled onions — Prepare the pickled onions in advance to allow the flavors to develop. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Lime crema — To make the lime crema, simply mix lime juice and zest with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Adjust the tanginess to your preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled steak before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the steak on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce to the tacos.
• Serve the tacos with a side of black beans and rice for a complete Cuban meal experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-style Carne Asada Tacos on a platter, allowing your guests to build their own tacos. Provide extra lime crema and pickled onions on the side for those who want to add more flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled steak slices neatly on the tortillas and top them with vibrant pickled onions. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve the tacos on a colorful plate or a wooden board to enhance the visual appeal.