Carne asada huarache
Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, hearty textures, and authentic Mexican tradition?
Carne asada huarache is just that—a delicious, oval-shaped masa base topped with tender grilled steak, refried beans, fresh lettuce, tangy cheese, and zesty salsa. Originating from Mexico City, this dish gets its name from its resemblance to a “huarache” sandal.
The combination of smoky, marinated carne asada and the thick, chewy masa creates an irresistible bite.
Whether enjoyed as street food or homemade comfort, carne asada huarache is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, authentic Mexican flavors.
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What is in a huarache?
Carne asada huarache
Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, hearty textures, and authentic Mexican tradition?
Carne asada huarache is just that—a delicious, oval-shaped masa base topped with tender grilled steak, refried beans, fresh lettuce, tangy cheese, and zesty salsa. Originating from Mexico City, this dish gets its name from its resemblance to a “huarache” sandal.
The combination of smoky, marinated carne asada and the thick, chewy masa creates an irresistible bite. Whether enjoyed as street food or homemade comfort, carne asada huarache is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, authentic Mexican flavors.
What is steak huarache?
Carne asada huarache
Steak huarache is a delicious Mexican dish featuring a thick, oval-shaped masa (corn dough) base topped with grilled steak (carne asada) and a variety of flavorful ingredients.
The masa is hand-formed, cooked on a comal (griddle), and often filled with refried beans for extra richness.
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The star of this dish is the carne asada, which is marinated in citrus, garlic, and spices before being grilled to perfection. The steak is then sliced and layered over the huarache, adding a smoky, tender bite.
Traditional toppings include lettuce or cabbage, crumbled queso fresco, Mexican crema, avocado slices, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. To enhance the flavor, it is finished with a drizzle of red or green salsa, adding the perfect amount of spice and tang.
Steak huarache is a hearty, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mexican street food, blending bold flavors with a comforting masa base.
What does huarache mean in Mexican?
Carne asada huarache
In Mexican culture, the word “huarache” has two meanings. Traditionally, it refers to a type of handmade leather sandal worn by indigenous people in Mexico. The name comes from the Purépecha word kwarachi, meaning sandal.
In Mexican cuisine, huarache is also the name of a delicious dish that gets its name from its resemblance to the long, oval shape of the traditional sandal. A huarache in food is a thick masa (corn dough) base, hand-shaped and cooked on a griddle, then topped with refried beans, meat, cheese, crema, lettuce, and salsa. The combination of a slightly crispy exterior and soft interior makes it a favorite among street food lovers.
Whether referring to footwear or food, huaraches are deeply rooted in Mexican tradition. The dish, much like the sandal, represents Mexican craftsmanship and heritage, bringing people together through culture and cuisine.
What is Carne asada huarache?
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Carne asada huarache
Carne asada huarache is a flavorful Mexican dish that combines a thick, oval-shaped masa (corn dough) base with grilled, marinated steak (carne asada) and fresh toppings. The name “huarache” comes from its resemblance to the traditional Mexican sandal of the same name.
The masa is hand-shaped, cooked on a comal (griddle), and often filled with refried beans for extra richness. Tender carne asada, marinated with citrus, garlic, and spices, is grilled to perfection and sliced before being placed on top. Traditional toppings include lettuce or cabbage, crumbled queso fresco, Mexican crema, avocado slices, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. A drizzle of red or green salsa enhances the flavor with a touch of heat.
This dish is a staple of Mexican street food, offering a delicious balance of textures and bold flavors. Carne asada huarache is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for anyone craving an authentic Mexican meal.
Is carne asada a cheap cut of meat?
Carne asada is typically made from flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin, which are affordable cuts compared to premium steaks like ribeye or filet mignon.
These cuts are lean, fibrous, and flavorful, making them perfect for grilling after marination. While flank and skirt steak were once considered cheap, their popularity in Mexican and Latin American cuisine has increased demand, raising prices.
However, they remain cost-effective because they offer great flavor without requiring expensive seasoning or preparation.
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For budget-friendly carne asada, some opt for sirloin, chuck steak, or thin-cut round steak, which are more affordable but still flavorful when marinated properly.
The key is to use citrus-based marinades to tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy and delicious result.
Overall, while carne asada may not be the cheapest cut, it is still an economical choice for grilling, offering high-quality taste at a reasonable price.
Carne Asada Huarache Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| For the Huarache Base: | |
| Masa harina (corn flour) | 2 cups |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Refried beans | ½ cup |
| Oil (for cooking) | As needed |
| For the Carne Asada: | |
| Skirt or flank steak | 1 lb |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| Orange juice | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Toppings: | |
| Queso fresco (crumbled) | ½ cup |
| Mexican crema | ¼ cup |
| Shredded lettuce or cabbage | 1 cup |
| Diced onions | ¼ cup |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1 |
| Red or green salsa | To taste |
Instructions
- Prepare the Carne Asada: Marinate the steak with lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. Grill or pan-sear until cooked to preference. Slice thinly.
- Make the Huarache Base: Mix masa harina, salt, and warm water to form a dough. Shape into oval huaraches, press refried beans inside, and flatten.
- Cook the Huaraches: Heat oil in a skillet and cook each huarache for about 3 minutes per side until golden and firm.
- Assemble: Top each huarache with carne asada, lettuce, queso fresco, crema, onions, cilantro, avocado, and salsa.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Carne Asada Huarache Ingredients
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Huarache Base | Masa harina (corn flour) | 2 cups |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups | |
| Salt | ½ tsp | |
| Refried beans | ½ cup | |
| Oil (for cooking) | As needed | |
| Carne Asada | Skirt or flank steak | 1 lb |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | |
| Orange juice | 2 tbsp | |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | |
| Oil | 1 tbsp | |
| Toppings | Queso fresco (crumbled) | ½ cup |
| Mexican crema | ¼ cup | |
| Shredded lettuce or cabbage | 1 cup | |
| Diced onions | ¼ cup | |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | ¼ cup | |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1 | |
| Red or green salsa | To taste |
Carne Asada Huarache Calories Breakdown
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| Component | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Huarache Base | ||
| Masa harina (corn flour) | 2 cups | 880 |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups | 0 |
| Refried beans | ½ cup | 114 |
| Oil (for cooking) | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Carne Asada | ||
| Skirt or flank steak | 1 lb | 640 |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Orange juice | 2 tbsp | 12 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 |
| Oil (for marinating) | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Toppings | ||
| Queso fresco (crumbled) | ½ cup | 200 |
| Mexican crema | ¼ cup | 100 |
| Shredded lettuce or cabbage | 1 cup | 10 |
| Diced onions | ¼ cup | 16 |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup | 1 |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1 | 234 |
| Red or green salsa | 2 tbsp | 10 |
| Total Calories (Approx.) | Per Serving (1 Huarache with toppings) | 850-950 kcal |
Calorie count may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient choices.
What is the meaning of birria?
Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Jalisco. The word “birria” means “exquisite, savory dish” in Mexican Spanish and is often associated with something delicious and well-seasoned. It is a slow-cooked, spiced stew typically made with goat, beef, lamb, or pork, simmered in a rich, flavorful broth infused with dried chilies, garlic, cumin, bay leaves, and other spices.
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Originally, birria was prepared with goat meat, but today, beef birria is more common, especially in the United States. The dish is known for its deep red color, achieved by using guajillo and ancho chilies.
Birria is traditionally served in two ways: as a stew with tortillas or as birria tacos (quesabirria), where the meat is shredded, stuffed into tortillas with cheese, and griddled to crispy perfection.
Birria has gained worldwide popularity for its bold flavors, rich broth, and tender, juicy meat.
What is the taste of carne asada huarache
Carne asada huarache offers a bold, savory, and satisfying taste experience with a balance of textures and flavors.
The grilled carne asada brings a smoky, slightly charred flavor, enhanced by citrusy marinade notes from lime and orange juice, along with hints of garlic, cumin, and pepper. The meat is tender and juicy, providing a rich, beefy taste.
The huarache base, made from thick masa, has a mild corn flavor with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, chewy center. The layer of refried beans adds a creamy, earthy element, complementing the carne asada’s robust flavor.
Fresh toppings like crisp lettuce or cabbage, tangy queso fresco, smooth crema, and spicy salsa create a perfect contrast of textures and flavors—cool, creamy, and zesty against the warmth of the meat and masa. Each bite delivers a harmonious mix of smokiness, richness, freshness, and spice, making it a deeply satisfying Mexican dish.
7 Steps to make Carne asada huarache
1. Prepare the Carne Asada Marinade
To achieve tender, flavorful meat, marinate the steak in a blend of lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and a bit of oil. The citrus juices help tenderize the meat while the spices enhance its natural flavors. Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best taste, leave it in the refrigerator for 2–4 hours. This allows the flavors to fully absorb.
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Using skirt or flank steak works best, as these cuts are known for their rich beefy flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. Make sure to turn the meat occasionally while marinating so all sides are coated. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
For extra flavor, you can also add chopped cilantro, Worcestershire sauce, or a touch of chili powder to the marinade. Once marinated, set the meat aside while you prepare the huarache base.
2. Make the Huarache Dough
The huarache base is made using masa harina (corn flour), warm water, and salt. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of masa harina with ½ teaspoon of salt, then gradually add 1¼ cups of warm water, kneading the mixture into a smooth dough. The consistency should be soft but not sticky, similar to fresh tortilla dough.
Once the dough is ready, divide it into equal portions, rolling each piece into a ball. Then, shape each portion into an oval shape, about ¼-inch thick and 6–8 inches long. Huaraches are thicker and larger than tortillas, giving them a hearty texture.
To add more flavor, spread a thin layer of refried beans in the center of each huarache before flattening it. This helps bind the masa together while adding a creamy and earthy taste. Set the prepared huaraches aside while heating the cooking surface.
3. Cook the Huarache Base
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with a small amount of oil. Place the shaped huaraches onto the hot surface and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust.
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As the huarache cooks, it will slightly puff up, and the edges will firm up while remaining soft inside. The refried beans inside add moisture, preventing the masa from drying out. If the huarache starts cracking or feels too dry, lightly brush it with a bit of water while cooking.
For extra crispiness, some people prefer to deep-fry the huaraches, but pan-cooking them keeps them soft and slightly crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm while preparing the carne asada.
4. Cook the Carne Asada
Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Remove the marinated steak from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
Place the steak on the hot grill or pan and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preferred doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C). The steak should develop a charred crust while staying juicy inside.
Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Slice the carne asada against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.
5. Assemble the Huarache
Place the cooked huarache base on a serving plate and spread a thin layer of warm refried beans on top. This helps hold the toppings in place while adding extra flavor.
Next, lay the sliced carne asada over the huarache, distributing it evenly so each bite gets a mix of masa and meat. The juicy, smoky steak contrasts beautifully with the soft, slightly crisp huarache.
At this point, you can drizzle a small amount of Mexican crema for a creamy touch or melted cheese for extra richness. Some people also like to add a few slices of avocado for a buttery flavor.
6. Add Toppings and Garnishes
To enhance the flavors, top the carne asada huarache with a variety of fresh and vibrant garnishes. Some essential toppings include:
- Queso fresco (crumbled cheese): Adds a mild, slightly salty taste.
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage: Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Diced onions & fresh cilantro: Bring brightness and herbaceous notes.
- Avocado slices: Offer a smooth, creamy texture.
- Salsa (red or green): Adds spice and acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.
Feel free to customize your toppings based on personal preference. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce over the top. The combination of textures, colors, and flavors makes this dish visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once assembled, serve the carne asada huarache immediately while warm. The contrast between the charred carne asada, the soft yet crispy huarache, and the fresh toppings makes every bite flavorful and satisfying.
For a complete meal, pair it with Mexican rice, charro beans, or a cold drink like horchata or agua fresca. Carne asada huaraches can be eaten with a fork and knife or folded slightly to enjoy like an open-faced taco.
If making for a group, allow guests to customize their own huaraches with their preferred toppings. The dish is perfect for casual dinners, gatherings, or special occasions, bringing an authentic taste of Mexican street food to your table. Enjoy!
Related faq’s
1. What is a carne asada huarache?
A carne asada huarache is a Mexican dish consisting of a thick, oval-shaped masa base topped with refried beans, grilled carne asada (marinated steak), fresh toppings, and salsa. The masa is slightly crispy on the outside but soft inside, making it the perfect foundation for the flavorful meat and toppings. It is often compared to a thick tortilla but has a unique shape and texture, making it a popular Mexican street food option.
2. What kind of meat is used for carne asada huarache?
The best cuts of meat for carne asada are flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin, as they are flavorful and cook well on a grill or skillet. The steak is typically marinated in lime juice, garlic, cumin, and spices before being grilled to perfection. Once cooked, it is thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness and placed on top of the huarache base.
3. What does a huarache taste like?
A huarache has a mild, slightly sweet corn flavor from the masa dough, similar to a thick tortilla or sopes. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside remains soft and chewy. When topped with carne asada, beans, and salsa, it offers a rich, smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavor, creating a balanced and satisfying bite.
4. What toppings go on carne asada huarache?
Common toppings for carne asada huarache include:
- Queso fresco (crumbled Mexican cheese)
- Mexican crema (similar to sour cream)
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Diced onions and cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Red or green salsa
These toppings add freshness, creaminess, and a bit of spice to balance the richness of the meat and masa.
5. Is carne asada huarache spicy?
By itself, carne asada huarache is not very spicy, but you can adjust the spice level by adding hot salsa, jalapeños, or chili powder. If you prefer a mild version, use a creamy avocado sauce or mild tomato salsa instead of spicy toppings.
6. Can carne asada huarache be made gluten-free?
Yes! Traditional huaraches are made from masa harina, which is naturally gluten-free. However, it’s essential to check that the masa harina is certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten sensitivity. Also, make sure that the seasonings, refried beans, and toppings do not contain hidden gluten ingredients.
7. How is carne asada huarache different from a tostada or sope?
A huarache is larger and oval-shaped, while a tostada is a thin, crispy, round tortilla and a sope is smaller, thicker, and round with raised edges. Huaraches have a chewier texture due to their thickness and usually include a layer of refried beans inside the masa, whereas sopes and tostadas are often topped with beans instead.
Conclusion
Carne asada huarache is a delicious and satisfying Mexican dish that combines a crispy-yet-soft masa base with flavorful grilled steak and fresh toppings. Its unique texture and rich flavors make it a standout choice for those who love authentic Mexican cuisine.
Whether enjoyed with spicy salsa, creamy cheese, or fresh avocado, it offers a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors. Easy to customize and naturally gluten-free, carne asada huarache is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. Try making it at home and enjoy a true Mexican street food experience!