If you’ve ever dabbled in cooking or tried your hand at grilling, you may have come across Flank Steak and Carne Asada. Both are popular cuts of meat, but are they the same thing? Let’s take a closer look at Flank Steak and Carne Asada to understand the differences between the two.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of a cow. It’s long, flat, and has a grainy texture that runs parallel to the length of the steak. Flank steak is commonly used in Mexican and Asian cuisine and is known for its rich flavor.

How to cook Flank Steak?

Flank steak is best cooked using high-heat methods such as grilling, broiling, or pan-searing. It’s important to marinate flank steak before cooking it to add flavor and tenderize the meat. If cooked properly, flank steak can be deliciously juicy and tender.

  • Marinate flank steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Preheat grill or pan on high heat.
  • Cook flank steak for 4-6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare.

What is Carne Asada?

Carne Asada translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish. It’s a popular dish in Mexican cuisine that features beef that’s been marinated in citrus juice, garlic, chilies, and cilantro. The marinade helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with bold flavors.

How to make Carne Asada?

To make carne asada, you’ll need:

  • 2 pounds of flank steak
  • 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves and stems
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, cumin powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the flank steak to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
  3. Preheat grill on high heat.
  4. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard excess marinade. Grill the steak for about five minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare.
  5. Serve sliced thinly against the grain with tortillas or rice.

  6. The Difference Between Flank Steak and Carne Asada?

    While both Flank Steak and Carne Asada come from the same cut of beef- Flank; they are two different things. Flank steak is a cut of meat that’s used in various cuisines around the world. On the other hand, Carne Asada is a dish that features flank steak that’s been marinated in citrus juices and grilled.

    In conclusion, Flank Steak is not the same as Carne Asada, but they are related. Flank Steak is a cut of beef that’s used in various dishes, while Carne Asada is a specific dish that features Flank Steak. Whether you’re cooking flank steak on the grill or making Carne Asada, make sure to marinate it well for maximum flavor and tenderness.