Carne Asada Fries

Carne Asada Fries are a delectable fusion of crispy French fries topped with flavorful carne asada, melted cheese, and a variety of savory toppings. This dish, which originated in San Diego, California, has become a favorite in Mexican-American cuisine. Here's a comprehensive recipe to recreate this indulgent treat at home:

Ingredients:

For the Carne Asada:

• 1 pound flank or skirt steak

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Fries:

• 1 bag (28 ounces) frozen French fries or homemade fries

• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

Toppings:

• Guacamole

• Sour cream

• Pico de gallo or salsa

• Sliced jalapeños

• Chopped fresh cilantro

• Diced red onions

• Lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Steak:

o In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro.

o Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is well-coated.

o Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Cook the Fries:

o Prepare the French fries according to package instructions or your preferred homemade method until they are golden and crispy.

o Once cooked, spread the fries evenly on a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet.

3. Cook the Carne Asada:

o Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

o Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.

o Grill or sear the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

o Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces.

4. Assemble the Dish:

o Preheat your oven's broiler.

o Distribute the sliced carne asada evenly over the prepared fries.

o Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

o Place the platter under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Add Toppings and Serve:

o Remove from the oven and immediately top with dollops of guacamole and sour cream.

o Add pico de gallo or salsa, sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, and chopped cilantro as desired.

o Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Additional Tips:

• Steak Selection: Flank or skirt steak is ideal for carne asada due to its rich flavor and tenderness when properly marinated and sliced against the grain.

• Marination: Allowing the steak to marinate for several hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.

• Cheese Options: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like queso fresco or a Mexican cheese blend.

• Serving Suggestions: Carne Asada Fries are best enjoyed immediately to maintain the crispiness of the fries and the juiciness of the steak.

This recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in as a hearty meal.

Jenna Denise Site
Carne Asada Fries