Carne Asada Street Tacos and Mexican Rice

464706322_945193707630110_5640317604597393640_n 464447522_122179265924124410_5357298513461988505_n I asked my mother-in-law, Susan, what she would like for game day food on election night. She wants tacos and I usually do whatever she wants. So I guess we’re having tacos. Vote early and vote often. Carne Asada Street Tacos and Mexican Rice For the Carne Asada Marinade:1 lb. flank or skirt steak1/4 cup orange juice1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)2 tbsp soy sauce2 tbsp olive oil2 cloves garlic, minced1 jalapeño, minced1/4 cup chopped cilantroKosher salt and fresh-ground pepper, to taste For the Tacos:Corn tortillasGuacamole (for topping)Pico de Gallo (for topping)Lime wedges (for serving) Step 1: Marinate the Carne AsadaPrepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and pepper.Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for best flavor.Step 2: Cook the Carne AsadaGrill or Pan-Sear: Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill or sear the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.Rest and Slice: Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into small, bite-sized pieces.Step 3: Assemble the TacosWarm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet or grill for a few seconds on each side until they’re warm and pliable.Build the Tacos: Place a portion of the sliced carne asada on each tortilla. Top with a spoonful of guacamole and Pico de Gallo.Serve: Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and serve with additional lime wedges on the side. Mexican Rice My Way 2 cups rice4 cups water3 ounces tomato sauceKosher salt and fresh-ground pepper, to taste1/2 teaspoon garlic salt1 teaspoon Tajin Mexican seasoning1 teaspoon Knorr chicken bouillon1/2 teaspoon ground cumin1 handful of cilantro, no stems2 sprigs green onion, chopped2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1. Brown the Rice:In a cooking pan, preferably one with a lid that fits perfectly, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and brown it well, stirring frequently to ensure even browning.2. Add Tomato Sauce:Once the rice is browned, stir in the tomato sauce, ensuring all the rice is coated evenly.3. Add Water and Seasonings:Add the 4 cups of water to the pan, followed by the salt and pepper, garlic salt, Knorr chicken bouillon, ground cumin, and Tajin. Add the chopped green onion as well. Stir to combine.4. Cook the Rice:Bring the mixture to a boil, then taste and adjust the salt if needed. Add a handful of cilantro on top. Cover the pan with foil and place the lid on top. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20 minutes. Do not uncover the pan during this time.5. Let it Rest:After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 10 minutes.