Carne Asada Arrachera - Taco Tuesday - Mexican Food

Summary

In this engaging cooking video, the host shares a quick and flavorful recipe for carne asada tacos using a homemade seasoning blend. The host emphasizes the importance of using quality meats, such as ranchera or skirt steak, and showcases the seasoning process, which includes kosher salt, chili powders, garlic, onion powder, and more. After marinating the meat with lime juice and Worcestershire sauce, the host demonstrates grilling techniques to achieve the perfect sear. The video concludes with the assembly of delicious tacos topped with fresh salsa verde, inviting viewers to explore the full recipe on the channel's website.

Takeaways

• 😀 The seasoning recipe is a quick alternative for carne asada, ideal for those short on time.
• 🌶️ The seasoning includes ingredients like kosher salt, New Mexico and California chili powders, garlic powder, and lemon pepper for flavor.
• 🍋 Lime juice and Worcestershire sauce serve as a binder and enhance the flavor of the meat.
• 🥩 The preferred cuts for carne asada are flank steak or skirt steak for their tenderness and flavor.
• ⏳ A quick marination of about 5 minutes is sufficient when time is limited.
• 🔥 Using mesquite charcoal and adding wood can provide a great smoky flavor to the meat.
• 🔪 It’s important to cut the meat against the grain for tender slices, especially when making tacos.
• 🌮 The cooked carne asada can be used in various dishes, including tacos, burritos, and nachos.
• 🧂 The sodium content of the seasoning can be adjusted based on personal preference.
• 📅 The speaker recommends making carne asada at least once every two weeks for a satisfying meal.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the cooking tutorial?

The main focus is on preparing a quick carne asada seasoning and cooking carne asada tacos.

How long should the wet marinade sit for maximum flavor?

The wet marinade should ideally sit for 24 to 48 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

What are the primary ingredients in the carne asada seasoning?

The primary ingredients include kosher salt, New Mexico chili powder, California chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, lemon pepper, oregano, and ground cumin.

What is the purpose of blending the seasoning ingredients?

Blending the seasoning ingredients helps achieve a uniform texture, especially breaking down coarse ingredients like oregano.

Which cuts of meat does the host recommend for carne asada?

The host recommends using flank steak or skirt steak for optimal flavor and texture.

Why does the host discourage the use of chuck steak?

The host discourages the use of chuck steak because it is tougher and often sold at lower prices, which doesn't match the quality expected for carne asada.

What additional ingredients are suggested for marinating the meat?

The additional ingredients suggested include lime juice and Worcestershire sauce, which serve as flavor enhancers and binders.

What cooking method does the host prefer for carne asada?

The host prefers cooking carne asada over high heat using mesquite charcoal for added flavor.

How does the host suggest serving the cooked carne asada?

The host suggests serving the cooked carne asada in flour tortillas with toppings like salsa verde, avocado sauce, and pico de gallo.

What is the significance of cutting the meat against the grain?

Cutting the meat against the grain ensures tenderness, making it easier to chew.