Mexican Carne Asada with Citrus Marinade on Arteflame

Introduction

Grilling carne asada on the Arteflame enhances the flavors through high-heat searing and even cooking. By marinating the steak in citrus and spices, then searing it at 1,000°F before finishing on the griddle cooktop, you achieve unmatched tenderness and juiciness. Pair it with your favorite sides and toppings for an authentic Mexican feast.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank steak (or skirt steak)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn or flour tortillas (for serving)
• Sliced onions and bell peppers (optional, for grilling alongside)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place them in the center of the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper napkins and let the fire build up.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes to reach 1,000°F at the center grate.

Step 2: Marinate the steak

1. In a large bowl, mix lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped cilantro.
2. Add the steak, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Sear the steak

1. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated steak on the center grill grate.
2. Sear it for about 1-2 minutes per side at 1,000°F to lock in the juices.

Step 4: Reverse-sear the steak

1. Move the steak to the Arteflame griddle cooktop to continue cooking to your desired doneness.
2. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, removing the steak when it’s about 15°F below the target temperature.

Step 5: Grill your sides

1. While the steak is resting, place onions and peppers on the griddle cooktop.
2. Grill until softened and slightly charred.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
2. Serve with warm tortillas and grilled vegetables.
3. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Tips

• For ultra-juicy steak, always let it rest for five minutes after grilling.
• Use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the most vibrant flavor.
• Keep tortillas warm by placing them on the outer edge of the Arteflame griddle cooktop.

Variations

1. Spicy Carne Asada: Add an extra teaspoon of chili powder and cayenne for a spicier kick.
2. Garlic-Lovers Carne Asada: Double the garlic in the marinade for an intense garlicky flavor.
3. Tequila-Lime Carne Asada: Add a splash of tequila to the marinade for a smoky citrus twist.
4. Herb-Infused Carne Asada: Add fresh thyme and oregano to the marinade for an herby variation.
5. Sweet & Smoky Carne Asada: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey and extra smoked paprika for a sweet-smoky balance.

Best Pairings

• Mexican-style street corn (elote)
• Grilled jalapeños for extra heat
• Fresh guacamole and salsa
• Refried beans or Mexican rice
• A cold Mexican beer or margarita

Conclusion

Grilling carne asada on the Arteflame enhances the flavors through high-heat searing and even cooking. By marinating the steak in citrus and spices, then searing it at 1,000°F before finishing on the griddle cooktop, you achieve unmatched tenderness and juiciness. Pair it with your favorite sides and toppings for an authentic Mexican feast.