How to Make Delicious Traeger Carne Asada

This blog post from Traeger Grills details a flavorful recipe for grilled carne asada skirt steak. The steak is marinated in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper. After marinating, it is seasoned with Traeger Prime Rib Rub and cooked using a pellet grill. The recipe includes steps for smoking the steak at a low temperature and then searing it at a high temperature for a perfect medium-rare finish. The steak is then rested before slicing against the grain and serving.

Citrus-Infused Carne Asada Skirt Steak

When it comes to grilling, achieving a balance between robust flavors and tender textures can transform a meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Enter the citrus-infused carne asada skirt steak, a recipe designed to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your grill game. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that each bite is bursting with vibrant flavors and succulent tenderness.

The Marinade: A Symphony of Citrus and Spice

The secret to an exceptional carne asada lies in the marinade. Combining the juices of oranges, lemons, and limes creates a tangy base that not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a zesty brightness. Minced garlic and chopped fresh cilantro add depth and freshness, while a minced jalapeño provides a subtle kick. Ground cumin introduces a warm, earthy note, and a quarter cup of olive oil binds these flavors together. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Ingredients:

• Juice of 3 oranges
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 minced jalapeño with seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparing the Skirt Steak

Select a high-quality skirt steak, about 2 pounds, ensuring it has good marbling for flavor. Trim any excess fat before placing the steak in a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.

Steps:

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk well to dissolve the salt.
2. Trim excess fat from the steak and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
3. Discard the marinade and season the steak with Traeger Prime Rib Rub, letting it rest for 30 minutes.

Smoking and Searing: The Two-Step Grilling Process

For optimal flavor, use a pellet grill like the Traeger. Preheat the grill to 225°F, utilizing the Super Smoke setting if available. Place the steak directly on the grill grates, close the lid, and smoke for 45 minutes. This slow-smoking process allows the steak to absorb a rich, smoky flavor.

Once smoked, remove the steak and increase the grill temperature to 450°F. Sear the steak for about 2 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. This high-heat searing locks in juices and creates a delectable crust.

Steps:

1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F and smoke the steak for 45 minutes.
2. Increase the grill temperature to 450°F and sear the steak for 2 minutes per side.

Finishing Touches: Rest and Slice

After searing, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Slice the steak against the grain to achieve tender, bite-sized pieces perfect for tacos, fajitas, or nachos.

Final Steps:

1. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
2. Slice against the grain and serve.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ll create a carne asada skirt steak that is not only bursting with citrus and garlic flavors but also perfectly tender and juicy. Whether you’re making tacos, fajitas, or simply enjoying the steak on its own, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up your grill and get ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level with this exceptional carne asada skirt steak recipe.