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Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe

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4.2 from 45 reviews

This Instant Pot Carne Asada recipe delivers tender, flavorful flank steak infused with a vibrant blend of spices and a zesty marinade. Utilizing the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking method ensures juicy, well-cooked meat in a fraction of the traditional time, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The recipe features a homemade spice rub and marinade composed of lime and orange juice, garlic, and fresh cilantro, enhancing the steak’s natural flavors. Serve with fresh cilantro or chimichurri sauce for an authentic Mexican-inspired dish.

Ingredients

For the Spice Rub

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin

For the Flank Steak

  • 1 2-pound flank steak
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Marinade

  • ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ packed cup onion slices (half of 1 small onion)

Serving Suggestions (All Optional)

  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Prepared chimichurri sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon cumin thoroughly to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
  2. Season the steak: Generously rub both sides of the 2-pound flank steak with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring the spices are well incorporated into the meat for enhanced flavor.
  3. Brown the steak: Turn on the Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once hot, add the flank steak. If necessary, cut the steak against the grain into two large pieces to fit the pot. Brown the steak for about 6 minutes total, 2-3 minutes per side, until it develops a nice crust.
  4. Add the marinade: Pour ½ cup low-sodium beef broth, ¼ cup lime juice, ¼ cup orange juice, and add 3 minced garlic cloves into the Instant Pot over the browned steak.
  5. Add fresh aromatics: Place ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro and ½ packed cup of onion slices on top of the steak.
  6. Pressure cook the steak: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook function on High Pressure for 20 minutes to achieve a well-done steak. After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
  7. Release pressure and slice: Carefully vent any remaining pressure, open the lid, and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat thinly against the grain at a diagonal angle to maximize tenderness.
  8. Serve: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter, garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired, and accompany with chimichurri sauce or other favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Cook Times may vary depending on the model of your Instant Pot and the thickness of the steak; adjust cooking time between 10-15 minutes for less well-done results. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature before slicing.
  • When cutting flank steak, always slice against the grain – locate the muscle fibers running through the meat and cut perpendicular to them to maximize tenderness.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure your beef broth contains no gluten additives.
  • Keto adaptations: Orange juice and onions contain carbs; to keep very low-carb, omit the orange juice and onions or substitute with extra lime or lemon juice and more broth. This alters flavor slightly but keeps it keto-friendly.