California-Style Carne Asada on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Savor the bold flavors of California-style carne asada, perfectly grilled on the Arteflame grill. This recipe locks in the juices with a 1,000F sear on the center grill grate before bringing it to the perfect doneness on the surrounding flat cooktop. Whether served as tacos or a main dish, this carne asada is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank steak
• Juice of 4 limes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Flour or corn tortillas (for tacos, optional)
• Salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire heat the grill for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and jalapeño.
2. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

1. Once the grill is ready, place the steak on the center grill grate.
2. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until a caramelized crust forms.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the steak to the flat cooktop griddle around the center grate.
2. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare (remove at 115°F as it will continue to cook off the grill).
3. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Slice the steak thinly.
2. Warm tortillas on the flat cooktop if serving as tacos.
3. Serve with salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

Tips

• Always rest the meat after grilling to keep it juicy.
• Use butter instead of oil for richer flavor.
• Grill vegetables like onions and bell peppers on the flat cooktop for extra toppings.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle Carne Asada: Add 2 teaspoons of chipotle powder or adobo sauce to the marinade for a smoky heat.
2. Garlic and Herb Carne Asada: Incorporate fresh rosemary and thyme into the marinade for a herbaceous twist.
3. Sweet and Spicy Carne Asada: Mix in honey or agave nectar to balance heat with a touch of sweetness.
4. Mexican Beer-Marinated Carne Asada: Replace half the lime juice with a dark Mexican beer for infused malt flavor.
5. Pineapple-Infused Carne Asada: Add fresh pineapple juice to tenderize and give a tropical hint.

Conclusion

Grilling carne asada on the Arteflame grill provides unmatched flavor with a perfect sear and juicy tenderness. Whether for tacos or a plated dish, this recipe will become a favorite at any cookout.

Best Pairings

• Grilled street corn with cotija cheese
• Refried or black beans
• Chilled margaritas or Mexican-style lager
• Fresh pico de gallo