Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a dish that truly embodies the spirit of this vibrant holiday: the Carne Asada Burrito! I remember my first September 16th after moving to a new town; the air was thick with the scent of grilled meats and the sound of mariachi music. It made me realize how much food is at the heart of a good Mexican Independence Day celebration. This recipe is my go-to for recreating that festive feeling at home. It’s packed with juicy grilled steak, flavorful rice, creamy beans, and all the fixings, making it the perfect answer to how to celebrate Mexican Independence Day with delicious, homemade flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Carne Asada Burritos
These burritos are a guaranteed hit for your September 16th festivities. They offer an incredible explosion of flavor, with tender, marinated steak and all your favorite fresh fillings. Plus, they’re surprisingly quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy hosts. You’ll love how budget-friendly they are, especially when feeding a crowd. Incorporating these into your Mexican Independence Day traditions is easy, as they’re a crowd-pleaser for all ages. They also offer a healthier option compared to many other festive dishes, making them a perfect fit for your Mexican Independence Day traditions and a delicious way to honor the holiday.
Ingredients for the Perfect Carne Asada Burrito
Gathering these ingredients is the first step toward a fantastic Mexican Independence Day food ideas spread! You’ll need:
- 1½ lbs flank or skirt steak – for that classic grilled flavor
- ¼ cup orange juice – adds a touch of sweetness and helps tenderize
- ¼ cup lime juice – for a bright, zesty kick
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – binds the marinade and adds richness
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – the backbone of aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – these spices create that signature smoky, savory profile
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas – warmed, these are the perfect vessel
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 1½ cups cooked black or pinto beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup pico de gallo or fresh salsa
- 1 cup guacamole
- ½ cup sour cream – optional, for creaminess
How to Make Carne Asada Burritos for Mexican Independence Day
Whipping up these delicious carne asada burritos is a fantastic way to bring everyone together for a memorable Mexican Independence Day celebration. Get ready to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas!
- Step 1: First things first, let’s get that grill ready! Preheat your grill or a grill pan to a high heat. While the grill heats up, prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup orange juice, ¼ cup lime juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. The aroma of these spices together is already hinting at the deliciousness to come!
- Step 2: Place your 1½ lbs flank or skirt steak into the marinade, making sure to turn it to coat every inch. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your steak will be – a key component for successful Mexican Independence Day activities.
- Step 3: Once marinated, remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’re looking for that perfect char and your desired doneness. The sizzling sound and smoky smell are telltale signs you’re on the right track!
- Step 4: After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This is crucial for keeping the juices locked inside. Then, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Step 5: While the steak rests, warm your 4 large flour tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat, or even carefully over a low flame on a gas burner, until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to roll without tearing – a little detail that makes a big difference in your overall Mexican Independence Day activities.
- Step 6: Now for the fun part – assembling the burritos! Lay a warm tortilla flat. Layer in the center with 2 cups cooked Mexican rice, 1½ cups cooked black or pinto beans, 1 cup shredded cheese, your perfectly sliced carne asada, 1 cup pico de gallo, 1 cup guacamole, and a dollop of ½ cup sour cream if you like.
- Step 7: To wrap, fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom, tucking in all that delicious filling. This final step in your Mexican Independence Day activities seals in all the flavors. Serve them immediately, or wrap them in foil to keep them warm for your guests.
Pro Tips for Authentic Carne Asada Burritos
Elevate your Mexican Independence Day party planning with these insider tips for the most delicious carne asada burritos:
- Don’t skip the resting period for the steak; it’s crucial for juiciness.
- Warm your tortillas properly – this makes all the difference in preventing tears and ensuring a good roll.
- Taste and adjust the marinade before adding the steak; a little extra lime or salt can personalize the flavor.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling over charcoal if possible.
What’s the secret to perfect Carne Asada?
The real magic in perfect carne asada lies in the marinade and the cut of meat. Using a combination of citrus (like lime and orange juice) tenderizes the steak, while spices like cumin and chili powder build depth. This recipe is a fantastic starting point for authentic Mexican Independence Day recipes.
Can I make Carne Asada Burrito components ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! You can marinate the steak the day before. Cooked rice and beans can also be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just assemble and grill (or reheat) components right before serving to ensure the best quality for your Mexican Independence Day events.
How do I avoid common mistakes when making Carne Asada Burritos?
A common pitfall is overcooking the steak, which leads to dryness. Also, avoid overfilling the burritos, as this makes them difficult to roll. For a successful Mexican Independence Day cultural celebration, remember to slice the steak thinly against the grain after it rests!
Best Ways to Serve Carne Asada Burritos
These hearty Carne Asada Burritos are a meal in themselves, but serving them with a few complementary sides really elevates your Mexican Independence Day food ideas. For a truly authentic experience, I love pairing them with a fresh, crisp side salad or some traditional Mexican street corn, also known as esquites. A small bowl of extra pico de gallo or a spicy salsa roja on the side is always a welcome addition for those who like an extra kick. You could also serve them alongside some simple seasoned black beans or cilantro-lime rice if you didn’t include them inside. These pairings make for a complete and festive meal, perfect for celebrating. For more festive ideas, check out these appetizers.
Nutrition Facts for Carne Asada Burritos
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for these delicious Carne Asada Burritos, perfect for your Mexican Independence Day feast:
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your Mexican Independence Day celebration.
How to Store and Reheat Carne Asada Burritos
Properly storing and reheating these delicious Carne Asada Burritos is key to enjoying them throughout your Mexican Independence Day festivities. Once the burritos have cooled down completely – this is important to prevent condensation – wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn, a crucial part of adopting good Mexican Independence Day holiday traditions. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for a single burrito is in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier exterior, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of your Mexican Independence Day celebration even days later. If you’re looking for more dessert options, consider these desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Asada Burritos for Mexican Independence Day
Got questions about making these amazing burritos for your big day? I’ve got you covered!
What is the true meaning of Mexican Independence Day?
Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16th, commemorates the moment Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang his church bell in 1810, calling for rebellion against Spanish rule. It’s a powerful day of national pride and remembrance, a true Mexican Independence Day meaning that we can honor with delicious food and community. Learn more about the history of Mexican Independence Day.
Can I use a different type of meat for these burritos?
While carne asada (grilled steak) is traditional and delicious, you can certainly experiment! Shredded chicken or pork carnitas also work wonderfully in burritos and can add a different flavor profile to your Mexican Independence Day celebration.
How do I make these burritos spicier for a more festive feel?
To add some heat, consider incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers into your pico de gallo, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. This is a great way to amp up the excitement for your Mexican Independence Day festive activities!
What sides pair well with Carne Asada Burritos for a party?
For a complete spread that really embraces the spirit of a Mexican Independence Day cultural celebration, I love serving these burritos with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, a fresh corn salad, or even some tortilla chips with guacamole and salsa. These additions make the meal truly special. For a sweet finish, try these pumpkin cobbler recipes.
Variations of Carne Asada Burritos for Your Celebration
Looking to customize these Carne Asada Burritos for your specific guests or preferences? These variations are perfect for adding a unique flair to your Mexican Independence Day festive activities!
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the steak for grilled portobello mushrooms marinated in the same spices, or use seasoned black beans as the base. For a vegan burrito, skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Spicy Fiesta Burrito: Amp up the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the marinade and pico de gallo. A dash of chipotle powder in the marinade also brings a smoky heat that’s perfect for a lively celebration.
- Baja-Style Burrito: For a lighter, fresher take, consider a Baja-style burrito. Use grilled fish or shrimp instead of steak, and top with a creamy cabbage slaw and a lime crema instead of cheese and sour cream.
- Sheet Pan Carne Asada: If grilling isn’t an option, you can achieve delicious results by roasting the marinated steak on a sheet pan in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, then slicing it.
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day Gloriously
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with this delicious Carne Asada Burrito. This recipe features tender grilled steak, seasoned rice, beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and guacamole wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. It’s a perfect, flavorful dish for your Mexican Independence Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs flank or skirt steak
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 1½ cups cooked black or pinto beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup pico de gallo or fresh salsa
- 1 cup guacamole
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place steak in the marinade, turning to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to high heat.
- Remove steak from marinade and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- Rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a low flame until pliable.
- To assemble each burrito, layer rice, beans, cheese, sliced steak, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream in the center of the tortilla.
- Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling.
- Serve immediately, or wrap in foil to keep warm.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour.
- Ensure tortillas are warm and pliable before assembling to prevent tearing.
- This burrito is best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A