Carne Asada Fries: A Flavorful Fusion of Mexican and American

Carne asada fries are a delicious and indulgent dish that has gained immense popularity in recent years, particularly in Southern California and other regions with a strong Mexican influence. This mouthwatering creation combines crispy French fries topped with marinated grilled steak, melted cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and a variety of other toppings. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that perfectly blends the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of American fast food. In this article, we will explore the origins of carne asada fries, the key ingredients, and a step-by-step guide to making this delectable dish at home.

The Origins of Carne Asada Fries

Carne asada, which translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish, is a traditional Mexican dish made from marinated and grilled beef, typically flank or skirt steak. It is often served with tortillas, rice, beans, and various salsas. The concept of carne asada fries is believed to have originated in California, where Mexican and American culinary traditions intersect.

The dish is thought to have been popularized in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in San Diego, where it became a staple in local taco shops and food trucks. Over time, carne asada fries have evolved, with many variations emerging that incorporate different toppings and flavors. Today, they are enjoyed by food lovers across the United States and beyond, often served as a late-night snack or a hearty meal.

Key Ingredients

1. French Fries: The base of the dish, French fries can be homemade or store-bought. For the best results, opt for thick-cut fries or steak fries that can hold up to the toppings.
2. Carne Asada: The star of the dish, carne asada is typically made from marinated flank or skirt steak. The marinade usually includes ingredients like lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and spices, which infuse the meat with flavor.
3. Cheese: Shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, is melted over the fries and carne asada, adding creaminess and richness to the dish.
4. Guacamole: Fresh guacamole adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. It can be made from ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
5. Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the carne asada and cheese.
6. Salsa: Fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds a refreshing element to the dish. It typically includes diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
7. Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños can be added as a topping.

How to Make Carne Asada Fries

• 1 pound flank or skirt steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups French fries (homemade or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
• 1 cup guacamole
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup salsa or pico de gallo
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Marinate the Steak: Place the flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Cook the French Fries

1. Prepare the Fries: If using frozen fries, follow the package instructions for cooking. If making homemade fries, cut potatoes into thick strips, soak them in water for about 30 minutes, then pat dry and fry or bake until golden and crispy.
2. Keep Warm: Once cooked, keep the fries warm in a low oven while you prepare the carne asada.

3. Grill the Carne Asada

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is recommended). 3. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.

4. Assemble the Dish

1. Layer the Fries: On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a base layer with the hot French fries.
2. Add Carne Asada: Evenly distribute the sliced carne asada over the fries, ensuring each fry gets a generous portion of meat.
3. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the carne asada. If desired, you can place the assembled fries under a broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese further.
4. Top with Toppings: Add dollops of guacamole and sour cream on top of the cheese and carne asada. Then, spoon over the salsa or pico de gallo for a fresh burst of flavor. If you like it spicy, add sliced jalapeños.
5. Garnish: For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for freshness and color.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Dig In: Serve the carne asada fries immediately while they are hot and crispy. This dish is perfect for sharing, but you might find it hard to resist keeping it all to yourself!
2. Pairing Suggestions: Carne asada fries can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a refreshing drink like horchata, agua fresca, or a cold beer.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Fish and Fries