Carne Asada Fries: The Ultimate Guide to This Delicious Mexican Dish

Carne Asada Fries are a delightful fusion of flavors that have captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers everywhere. This mouthwatering dish combines crispy French fries topped with marinated grilled steak, fresh guacamole, tangy salsa, and a drizzle of creamy cheese sauce. Originating from the vibrant culinary scene of Southern California, Carne Asada Fries have become a beloved staple in Mexican-American cuisine, often enjoyed as a late-night snack or a hearty meal.

What I love most about Carne Asada Fries is their incredible taste and texture. The contrast between the crunchy fries and the tender, juicy carne asada creates a satisfying experience that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the convenience of this dish makes it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, Carne Asada Fries are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

• 2 large russet potatoes
• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup guacamole
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup pico de gallo or diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)

Preparing the Fries

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your fries get nice and crispy. 2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel. 3. **Cut the Potatoes**: Slice the potatoes into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also cut them into wedges if you prefer a different shape. 4. **Soak the Potatoes**: To achieve that perfect crispiness, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch. 5. **Season the Potatoes**: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a towel. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. 6. **Bake the Fries**: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Preparing the Carne Asada

7. **Marinate the Steak**: While the fries are baking, let’s prepare the carne asada. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the flank or skirt steak. Drizzle with olive oil and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor. 8. **Cook the Steak**: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. 9. **Rest the Steak**: Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender. 10. **Slice the Steak**: After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew.

Assembling the Carne Asada Fries

11. **Layer the Fries**: Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and place them on a large serving platter or a baking sheet. 12. **Add the Cheese**: While the fries are still hot, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. The heat from the fries will melt the cheese beautifully. 13. **Top with Carne Asada**: Next, layer the sliced carne asada over the cheesy fries. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite has a bit of that delicious steak. 14. **Add Toppings**: Now it’s time to add the fun toppings! Spoon dollops of guacamole and sour cream over the carne asada. Then, sprinkle the pico de gallo or diced tomatoes on top for a fresh burst of flavor. 15. **Garnish**: Finish off your carne asada fries with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños on top.

Serving Suggestions

16. **Serve Immediately**: Carne asada fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the fries are still crispy and the cheese is melty. Serve them with extra guacamole and sour cream on the side for dipping. 17. **Pair with Drinks**: These fries pair wonderfully with a cold beverage. Consider serving them with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer to complement the flavors. 18. **Leftovers**: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them

Conclusion:

In summary, these Carne Asada Fries are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game or impress guests at their next gathering. The combination of crispy fries, savory marinated steak, and a medley of toppings creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you choose to serve them as a hearty appetizer, a fun party dish, or even as a satisfying meal on their own, these fries are sure to be a hit. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can add guacamole, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of chipotle sauce for an extra kick. If you’re looking for variations, consider swapping out the carne asada for grilled chicken or shrimp, or even going vegetarian with sautéed peppers and onions. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so versatile. I encourage you to give this Carne Asada Fries recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how you customized it to make it your own! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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