Description
A tender and flavorful slow cooker carne asada made with marinated flank steak, infused with citrus and spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice. This hands-off recipe simplifies traditional grilling while delivering bold, authentic flavors.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Seasonings
- 2–3 lbs. flank steak
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the 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
- Season the flank steak: Rub the steak with salt, pepper, and evenly distribute the seasonings over both sides, pressing them in gently.
- (Optional) Sear the steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and sear the steak for about 5 minutes per side until browned, to enhance flavor and appearance.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the seasoned (and optionally seared) flank steak into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Make 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 smooth. Pour this mixture over the steak.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the beef: Remove the cooked flank steak to a cutting board and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Combine and serve: Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, stir to absorb the juices, and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Add fresh chopped cilantro to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Spice it up by adding jalapenos, chipotle chilis, or chipotle chili powder.
- You can also use this marinade for other cuts like skirt steak.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer some of the liquid after cooking to reduce before mixing back into the meat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
