Tex-Mex Carne Asada is a tantalizing dish that fuses the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the succulent tenderness of Cuban and Caribbean influences, resulting in a mouthwatering culinary experience that’s perfect for those cozy winter evenings or busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary yet easy to prepare. With a total preparation time of just 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a mere 10 minutes of hands-on preparation, this recipe offers a delightful balance between convenience and indulgence, making it a cherished addition to your repertoire of meat-based dishes.
To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 3/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried Mexican oregano
- 4-5 pounds of sirloin tip roast
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 onions
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons of dry sherry
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bell peppers
Begin by preparing the flavorful marinade for the meat. In a mortar or heavy bowl, combine the garlic, salt, ground cumin, and dried Mexican oregano, then mash them together until they form a fragrant paste. Blend in the red wine vinegar and lemon juice, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This vibrant marinade serves as the heart and soul of the dish, infusing the meat with layers of complexity and depth that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
Next, it’s time to prepare the meat for marination. Score the sirloin tip roast with deep cuts in a cross-hatch pattern to allow the flavors of the marinade to penetrate deeply into the meat. Rub the spice blend generously over the entire surface of the meat, ensuring that it seeps into the cuts for maximum flavor infusion. Allow the meat to marinate in this tantalizing spice blend for 1 to 4 hours, allowing ample time for the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a tender and succulent final dish.
As the meat marinates, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit in preparation for the roasting process. Once the meat has marinated sufficiently, drain the excess marinade and reserve it for later use. Coat the marinated meat in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess to ensure a crisp and golden exterior during the roasting process.
In a roasting pan set over medium heat on the stove, heat the extra virgin olive oil and sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent, releasing their sweet and savory aroma into the air. Add the floured meat to the pan and brown it on all sides, locking in its juices and creating a rich caramelized crust that will enhance its flavor profile.
With the meat beautifully browned, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients to the roasting pan, including the reserved marinade, dry sherry, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and roasted bell peppers. These aromatic additions not only infuse the meat with additional layers of flavor but also create a luscious sauce that will elevate the dish to new heights of culinary excellence.
Cover the roasting pan and transfer it to the preheated oven, allowing the meat to roast for 2 hours at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, basting it occasionally and turning it over several times to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor development. If the meat begins to stick or the marinade becomes too low, add a mixture of three parts water to one part wine to the pan to prevent burning and maintain moisture levels.
After 2 hours of slow roasting, remove the meat from the pan and slice it into thick, succulent portions that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Return the sliced meat to the oven and roast it for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness and tenderness.
Before serving, be sure to check the sauce for seasoning and adjust it to your taste preferences. For a refined presentation, strain the sauce and serve it drizzled over the sliced meat, allowing its rich flavors to complement and enhance the dish’s overall appeal.
With its bold flavors, tender texture, and aromatic sauce, Tex-Mex Carne Asada is sure to become a favorite among family and friends alike, earning rave reviews and leaving everyone craving for more. So why wait? Embrace the culinary adventure and treat yourself to the unforgettable experience of savoring this delectable dish today!
