Asada, which translates to “grilled” in Spanish, is a staple of Mexican cuisine, particularly when it comes to tacos. Thinly sliced grilled beef, usually flank steak or skirt steak, is the star of the show in asada tacos. The key to cooking perfect asada is to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. In this article, we will delve into the world of asada and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook the perfect asada for tacos.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to asada, the type of meat you use is crucial. You want a cut that is flavorful, tender, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. The two most popular cuts of meat for asada are flank steak and skirt steak.
Flank Steak
Flank steak is a lean cut of meat that is taken from the belly of the cow. It is a popular choice for asada because it is flavorful, tender, and has a nice texture. Flank steak is also relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of meat.
Skirt Steak
Skirt steak, also known as fajita-style steak, is a cut of meat that is taken from the diaphragm of the cow. It is a bit fattier than flank steak, which makes it more tender and flavorful. Skirt steak is also a popular choice for asada because it has a nice texture and a rich, beefy flavor.
Preparing the Meat
Before you start cooking the asada, you need to prepare the meat. This involves trimming any excess fat, cutting the meat into thin slices, and marinating it in a mixture of spices and herbs.
Trimming Excess Fat
To prepare the meat, start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the steak. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Cutting the Meat into Thin Slices
Once you have trimmed the excess fat, cut the meat into thin slices. You want the slices to be about 1/4 inch thick so that they cook quickly and evenly.
Marinating the Meat
To add flavor to the asada, marinate the meat in a mixture of spices and herbs. A typical marinade for asada includes ingredients such as lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. You can also add other ingredients such as onions, bell peppers, and jalapenos to the marinade for extra flavor.
| Marinade Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lime juice | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onions, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Bell peppers, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Jalapenos, sliced | 1/4 cup |
Cooking the Asada
Now that you have prepared the meat, it’s time to cook the asada. You can cook the asada on a grill or in a skillet on the stovetop.
Grilling the Asada
To grill the asada, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the meat from the marinade and cook it for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking the Asada in a Skillet
To cook the asada in a skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the meat from the marinade and cook it for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Assembling the Tacos
Now that you have cooked the asada, it’s time to assemble the tacos. You will need tortillas, diced onions, diced cilantro, sour cream, and salsa.
Warming the Tortillas
To warm the tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Assembling the Tacos
To assemble the tacos, slice the cooked asada into thin strips and place it onto a warmed tortilla. Top the asada with diced onions, diced cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your asada tacos to the next level:
- Use a cast-iron skillet to cook the asada for a crispy crust on the outside and a juicy interior.
- Add some heat to your asada by incorporating diced jalapenos or serrano peppers into the marinade.
- Use different types of meat such as chicken or pork to mix things up.
- Add some freshness to your tacos by topping them with diced radishes, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of queso fresco.
Conclusion
Cooking the perfect asada for tacos is a matter of using the right cut of meat, preparing it properly, and cooking it to the right level of doneness. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be well on your way to creating delicious asada tacos that will impress your friends and family. Remember to always use fresh ingredients, to not be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, and to always cook with love.
What is Asada and how does it differ from other types of tacos?
Asada, which translates to “grilled” in Spanish, is a type of taco that originated in Mexico. It typically consists of thinly sliced grilled beef, usually flank steak or skirt steak, that is served in a taco shell with various toppings such as onions, cilantro, and salsa. Asada differs from other types of tacos in that it is grilled over an open flame, which gives the meat a unique char and flavor.
The grilling process is what sets Asada apart from other types of tacos, such as carne asada’s cousin, al pastor. Al pastor is also a type of taco, but it is made with marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit, rather than grilled over an open flame. The result is a slightly sweeter and more tender meat, but it lacks the char and smokiness of Asada.
What type of meat is best for Asada?
The best type of meat for Asada is a thinly sliced cut of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. These cuts are ideal because they are lean and have a lot of flavor, which makes them perfect for grilling. Flank steak is a popular choice for Asada because it is relatively inexpensive and has a robust flavor. Skirt steak, on the other hand, is a bit more tender and has a slightly sweeter flavor.
When selecting a cut of meat for Asada, it’s essential to choose one that is thinly sliced. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and quickly, which is important for achieving the perfect char and flavor. It’s also crucial to choose a cut of meat that is fresh and of high quality, as this will affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
How do I prepare the meat for Asada?
To prepare the meat for Asada, start by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the surface of the meat. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming tough. Next, slice the meat against the grain into thin strips. This will make the meat more tender and easier to chew.
Once the meat is sliced, season it with a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices. This will add flavor to the meat and help to tenderize it. Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. After marinating, remove the meat from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
What is the best way to grill the meat for Asada?
The best way to grill the meat for Asada is over high heat, using a grill or grill pan. This will help to achieve a nice char on the outside of the meat, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Preheat the grill to high heat, then add a small amount of oil to the grates to prevent the meat from sticking.
Once the grill is hot, add the meat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, which should be at least 130°F for medium-rare. After cooking, remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
What are some common toppings for Asada tacos?
Some common toppings for Asada tacos include diced onions, chopped cilantro, salsa, and lime wedges. These toppings add flavor and texture to the dish, and help to balance out the richness of the meat. Other popular toppings include diced avocado, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
When it comes to choosing toppings for Asada tacos, the key is to keep it simple. Too many toppings can overpower the flavor of the meat, so it’s best to stick with a few simple ingredients that complement the dish. Experiment with different combinations of toppings to find the one that you enjoy the most.
Can I make Asada tacos in advance?
While it’s possible to make some components of Asada tacos in advance, such as the salsa and toppings, it’s best to cook the meat just before serving. This will ensure that the meat is tender and juicy, and that it has the best flavor.
If you need to make the meat in advance, it’s best to cook it to the desired level of doneness, then let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Store the sliced meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, then reheat it before serving. Keep in mind that the meat may not be as tender and juicy as it would be if it were cooked just before serving.
What are some variations of Asada tacos?
There are many variations of Asada tacos, depending on the region and personal preferences. Some popular variations include using different types of meat, such as chicken or pork, or adding different spices and seasonings to the marinade. Other variations include using different types of tortillas, such as corn or flour, or adding different toppings, such as diced bell peppers or sliced radishes.
One popular variation of Asada tacos is called “carne asada fries,” which features French fries topped with grilled meat, cheese, and salsa. This dish is a twist on traditional Asada tacos, and is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting. Experiment with different variations of Asada tacos to find the one that you enjoy the most.