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DINNER

Nicaraguan Carne Asada with Chimichurri and Gallo Pinto

Experience the vibrant flavors of Nicaragua with this classic Carne Asada, perfectly grilled and served with fresh chimichurri and a hearty side of Gallo Pinto. This dish brings together tender marinated beef, aromatic rice and beans, and a zesty herb sauce for a truly satisfying meal.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Marinate the steak: In a shallow dish, combine the orange juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add the flank steak, ensuring it's fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

02

Prepare the chimichurri: While the steak marinates, finely chop the fresh parsley and cilantro. In a small bowl, combine the chopped herbs, the remaining 1 minced garlic clove, white vinegar, and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

03

Cook the Gallo Pinto: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the cooked black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the cooked white rice and mix well. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice and beans are heated through and slightly toasted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

04

Grill the steak: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, discarding any excess liquid. Grill the steak for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is reached. For an oven finish, place the steak on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F/200°C for 8-12 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

05

Rest and serve: Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips. Serve the sliced carne asada immediately with generous spoonfuls of chimichurri and a side of the warm Gallo Pinto.

About This Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Nicaragua with this classic Carne Asada, perfectly grilled and served with fresh chimichurri and a hearty side of Gallo Pinto. This dish brings together tender marinated beef, aromatic rice and beans, and a zesty herb sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
Nicaraguan Carne Asada with Chimichurri and Gallo Pinto
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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♨

Chef's Tips

For extra flavor in your Gallo Pinto, you can add 1/4 cup of finely diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet before adding the beans and rice. For a spicier chimichurri, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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Easy Substitutions

If flank steak is unavailable, skirt steak or sirloin steak can be used. For a vegetarian option, substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for Gallo Pinto.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover carne asada and Gallo Pinto separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chimichurri can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fried plantains (plátanos maduros), a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette, or a side of crumbled queso fresco. A cold cerveza or a refreshing agua fresca would also pair wonderfully with this meal.

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the steak: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure desired doneness. Not resting the steak: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Over-mixing Gallo Pinto: This can make the rice mushy. Stir gently and only as needed. Using fresh, hot rice for Gallo Pinto: This can lead to a sticky, clumpy texture. Day-old or cooled rice is preferred. Not slicing against the grain: Slicing with the grain will result in chewy meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the chimichurri ahead of time?

Yes, chimichurri can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.

What kind of beans should I use for Gallo Pinto?

Traditionally, black beans are used, but red beans can also be a delicious alternative.

How do I know when the steak is medium-rare?

For medium-rare, the internal temperature of the steak should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C). A meat thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to tender carne asada is proper marination and slicing against the grain. Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and enjoyable. For the Gallo Pinto, using day-old rice helps achieve a better texture, preventing it from becoming mushy. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before cooking.
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