If you’re craving something vibrant and incredibly flavorful, look no further than our beloved Slow Cooker Carne Asada! This dish is all about letting the slow cooker do the hard work while you dream of the tender, juicy bites infused with fresh citrus and herbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does the magic, locking in the flavors of the marinade while you enjoy your day.
- Bursting with Flavor: Citrusy notes from orange and lime give a bright punch that complements the smokiness of the spices perfectly.
- Versatile Dish: This carne asada is perfect for tacos, salads, bowls, or simply served with a side of rice.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering of friends, this dish is always a hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Carne Asada lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each spice plays a delightful role in building up the dish’s complex taste profile, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Flank Steak: The star of the show, it’s lean and full of flavor, perfect for shredding after slow cooking.
- Orange Juice: Adds a hint of sweetness while tenderizing the meat with its natural acidity.
- Garlic: Infuses the meat with robust aromatic depth. Don’t skimp on it!
- Lime Juice: Balances the richness with a zesty kick. Freshly squeezed is always best.
- Chili Powder: Gives a gentle heat that makes the dish truly authentic.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Slow Cooker Carne Asada! This recipe is versatile and can be easily tailored to fit different tastes, allowing you to explore new flavor territories or dietary preferences.
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapenos or chipotle chilis to ramp up the heat and spice level.
- Herbal Boost: Toss in fresh cilantro or parsley for a refreshing herbal burst before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Carne Asada
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Begin by seasoning the flank steak generously with salt and pepper. To enhance the flavors, a quick sear on both sides not only browns the meat but seals in the seasoning, creating a mouthwatering crust.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a measuring cup, whisk together the garlic, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, and all the spices. This vibrant mix is the backbone of the dish, bringing together sweet, tangy, and spicy elements.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Steak
Place the steak in your slow cooker and pour the marinade over, ensuring every inch of the meat is soaked with these aromatic flavors. Cook on LOW for 8 hours, allowing the meat to tenderize beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Carne Asada
- Flavor Maximization: Let the steak marinate overnight in the fridge for an even more astounding flavor profile.
- Juicy Consistency: Always shred the meat against the grain to maintain its tenderness and juiciness.
- Homemade Marinade: Don’t skip the orange and lime juices—they tenderize the steak marvelously.
- Meat Selection: Flank steak works wonderfully, but skirt steak is a fantastic alternative if you’re after a slightly richer taste.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Carne Asada
Garnishes
This carne asada shines with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a few slices of avocado. For a splash of color, diced tomatoes or a few spoonfuls of cotija cheese enhance its appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your carne asada with warm tortillas or a side of cilantro lime rice. Black beans or a fresh corn salad also make fantastic companions, adding nutrients and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a vibrant touch, serve your carne asada on a large platter surrounded by lime wedges and colorful veggies. Or, create individual bowls with rice and beans as the base, crowned with your delicious carne.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be a lifesaver! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ready to revive a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
For long-term storage, freeze the carne asada in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the carne asada gently in a pan over low heat, or use a microwave. Add a splash of broth or lime juice to maintain the succulent texture.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, while flank steak is traditional, you can substitute with skirt steak or chuck roast. Each offers a unique texture but equally delightful flavor.
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Is it necessary to sear the steak first?
Searing isn’t essential but highly recommended for creating a rich, caramelized crust that infuses the dish with depth.
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How can I adjust the heat level?
Increase or decrease the chili powder according to your preferences. Adding fresh jalapeños or omitting them altogether can further control the heat.
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What can I use instead of orange juice?
Pineapple juice is a great alternative. It provides the necessary acidity and sweetness to tenderize the meat efficiently.
Final Thoughts
I’m sure you’ll enjoy making this Slow Cooker Carne Asada as much as your family and friends will love eating it. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, with a dash of creativity, can transform into a heartwarming meal. Give it a try, and let the rich, savory aromas fill your home!
Print
Slow Cooker Carne Asada Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Slow Cooker Carne Asada is a flavorful, tender Mexican-style beef dish perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls. Marinated with citrus, garlic, and spices, the steak is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in juicy, easy-to-shred meat with bold flavors. Easy to prepare and stress-free, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2–3 lbs. flank steak
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper
Marinade
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Season the flank steak with salt and pepper, then pat in the spices to evenly coat the meat for enhanced flavor.
- (Optional) Sear the steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the flank steak on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side, to add depth of flavor and texture.
- Load the slow cooker: Place the seasoned (and optionally seared) flank steak into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Prepare the marinade: In a measuring cup, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meat in the slow cooker.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the beef: Remove the cooked flank steak onto a cutting board and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Combine and serve: Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker to soak up the juices, stir well, and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Add fresh cilantro to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Spice it up by adding jalapenos or chipotle chili powder.
- Use this shredded beef in tacos, burritos, or as a protein topping for salads.
- For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle chilis.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup shredded meat
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
