Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada

Introduction

I recently made Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The marinated flank steak grilled to perfection paired beautifully with the crispy corn tostadas and fresh toppings. The combination of flavors and textures—juicy meat, creamy guacamole, and zesty lime—created a fiesta on our plates. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and I loved how easy they were to prepare. Everyone enjoyed customizing their own tostadas with their favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients

For the Carne Asada:

• 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

For the Tostadas:

• 8-10 corn tostada shells
• 2 cups guacamole (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños (optional for spice)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Carne Asada:
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Prepare the Steak:
   Place the flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for more flavor.
3. Cook the Carne Asada:
   Preheat a grill or skillet over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill or cook the steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
4. Rest and Slice the Steak:
   Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice against the grain into thin strips.
5. Assemble the Tostadas:
   Lay the tostada shells on a serving platter. Top each tostada with a generous amount of sliced carne asada. Add guacamole on top of the steak, followed by a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema.
6. Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle with diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if using.
7. Serve:
   Serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada! 🌮🥳

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8-10 tostadas
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal (varies with toppings)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)

How to Serve

• Serve the tostadas immediately after assembling for maximum crispiness.
• Provide lime wedges for a zesty squeeze over the top.
• Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their tostadas:
• Toppings: Guacamole, sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños.
• Sides: Refried beans, Mexican rice, or a fresh salad.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak or skirt steak works best for carne asada due to its flavor and tenderness.
2. Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the steak overnight, but a minimum of 1 hour is acceptable.
3. Grill Marks: If using a grill, ensure it’s preheated to achieve nice grill marks and enhance flavor.
4. Cutting Technique: Always slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.
5. Homemade Guacamole: For a fresh twist, make your guacamole by mashing ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and diced onions.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace carne asada with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a hearty vegetarian tostada.
• Different Meats: Try using chicken or pork, marinated in similar spices for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Carne Asada: Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Salsa Toppings: Use different types of salsas, like mango salsa or corn salsa, for a fruity twist.
• Cheesy Tostadas: Top with shredded cheese and melt it under a broiler for a cheesy variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Complementary Dishes: Serve with traditional Mexican sides like elote (Mexican street corn) or a vibrant black bean salad.
• Drinks: Pair with refreshing beverages like agua fresca, horchata, or a classic margarita.
• Presentation: Arrange the tostadas on a colorful platter for a festive look at gatherings.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover carne asada can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Tostada Shells: Store tostada shells in a cool, dry place to maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated carne asada for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat cooked carne asada on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cut of meat for carne asada?

• Yes, you can use sirloin or ribeye steak, but adjust cooking times as needed.

1. How spicy are these tostadas?

• The spiciness can be adjusted based on the jalapeños used. Omit them for a milder version.

1. Can I prepare these tostadas in advance?

• You can prep the carne asada and toppings ahead of time but assemble the tostadas just before serving to keep them crispy.

1. What should I do with leftover carne asada?

• Leftover carne asada can be used in tacos, burritos, or salads.

1. How do I make the carne asada less salty?

• Reduce the amount of salt in the marinade and ensure the steak is not over-seasoned during cooking.

1. What can I substitute for lime juice?

• You can use lemon juice as a substitute, although it will alter the flavor slightly.

1. Can I grill the tostada shells?

• Yes, lightly grilling tostada shells can add a nice smoky flavor.

1. What is the best way to slice the steak?

• Always slice against the grain to ensure each bite is tender.

1. Can I use store-bought guacamole?

• Absolutely! Store-bought guacamole is a convenient option, especially for quick meals.

1. Are tostadas gluten-free?

• Yes, corn tostadas are typically gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.

Conclusion

Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada are a fantastic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. With marinated carne asada, fresh toppings, and crispy tostada shells, this meal is not only delicious but also fun to assemble. Perfect for gatherings, casual family dinners, or any occasion that calls for something special, these tostadas are sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, invite friends or family, and enjoy a wonderful culinary experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine!

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