Carne Asada Burrito Bowls

Who doesn’t love a delicious burrito bowl? They’re vibrant, satisfying, and full of flavor. Carne Asada Burrito Bowls take this beloved dish to the next level by featuring tender strips of marinated steak, seasoned rice, and a medley of toppings that create a fiesta of textures and flavors. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or hosting a casual get-together, these bowls are sure to impress.

The Upside of Carne Asada Burrito Bowls

Carne Asada Burrito Bowls are not only versatile but also incredibly easy to customize. You have the freedom to mix and match your favorite toppings and ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table gets exactly what they love. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to incorporate lean protein and fresh veggies into your meal. The combination of juicy carne asada, fluffy rice, and zesty toppings creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make your Carne Asada Burrito Bowls, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup orange juice (bottled is fine)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (bottled is fine)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (bottled is fine)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (bottled is fine)
• 2 cloves garlic (pressed or diced)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle chili pepper or 1 teaspoon finely chopped canned chipotle pepper (optional)
• 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro (chopped, about 3/4-1 cup very loosely packed)
• 1 1/2 pounds skirt, flank, or flap steak
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain or extra-long-grain rice
• 1 lime (zested and juiced, keep juice and zest separated)
• 1 tablespoon (14g) butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped loosely packed cilantro (divided)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained)
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded Mexican-blend cheese
• 1 large tomato (diced)
• 1/2 cup guacamole
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Appliances & Accessories

To whip up these delightful bowls, you will need a few essential appliances and accessories:

• Grill or Skillet: For cooking the carne asada to perfection.
• Rice Cooker: A great tool for perfectly cooked rice.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the steak and mixing toppings.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of ingredients.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and steak.

Carne Asada Burrito Bowls, Made Easy

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on creating your Carne Asada Burrito Bowls!

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and ground chipotle (if using). Whisk until well blended.

Add the steak to the marinade, ensuring it’s completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the steak marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice with chicken broth, lime zest, and butter. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions. If you don’t have a rice cooker, follow the package instructions for stove-top cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Once cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

While the steak is resting, prepare your toppings. In separate bowls, have black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, guacamole, and sour cream ready for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, start with a generous scoop of the cooked rice. Top with sliced carne asada, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese. Add a dollop of guacamole and sour cream to finish. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Seasonal Spins

Carne Asada Burrito Bowls are incredibly adaptable. Here are a few seasonal spins to switch things up:

• In the summer, add fresh pico de gallo and avocado slices for a refreshing twist.
• During the fall, incorporate roasted sweet potatoes and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for added nutrition and flavor.
• In the winter, use sautéed bell peppers and onions for a warm, comforting addition.
• In spring, toss in some fresh, grilled asparagus or zucchini for a vibrant touch.

Little Things that Matter

Every detail counts when creating the perfect Carne Asada Burrito Bowls. Here are some little things to keep in mind:

• Let the steak marinate for at least an hour; this enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients, especially for toppings like tomatoes and cilantro, for the best taste.
• Don’t skip the resting time for the steak; it allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder or chipotle chili.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), here’s how to store and reheat:

• Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the steak and rice in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Top with fresh toppings after reheating to maintain their texture and flavor.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken for the steak in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the steak with grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. You can also add extra beans for protein.

What can I serve with Carne Asada Burrito Bowls?

These bowls are great on their own, but you can serve them with tortilla chips and salsa or a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal.

Can I make the rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rice a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serve with These

• Guacamole
• Fresh Salsa
• Crispy Tortilla Chips
• Green Salad

Bring It Home

Creating Carne Asada Burrito Bowls is a delightful culinary adventure that brings together a symphony of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering with friends, or a meal prep for the week ahead. The beauty of these bowls lies in their versatility, allowing you to express your creativity with ingredients and toppings.

In the end, Carne Asada Burrito Bowls are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors, a canvas for your favorite ingredients, and a dish that invites everyone to the table. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!