SPICE ADVICE: CARNE ASADA RUB

Back with another Alyse Baca original: Carne Asada Rub. Featuring earthy, citrusy, and slightly spicy flavors, this blend brings a kick of jalapeño, cumin, and lime juice to marinades and sauces, perfect for steak tacos or sizzling fajitas!

This blend was created to replicate the fresh flavors of Mexican Carne Asada - which translates to roasted meat. The flavors associated with more traditional Carne Asada dishes involve notes of citrus, jalapeño, and garlic. In effort to match the authentic flavors found in those dishes, we added some unique ingredients like orange juice and lime juice powder, which add bright notes reminiscent of the fresh citrus used in a traditional carne asada marinade. We also added air-dried jalapeño and jalapeño powder—an essential ingredient native to Mexico (accounting for 30% of Mexico's chile production!)

While there are certain flavors that are generally found in most Carne Asada dishes, Carne Asada refers to the actual cooking method. The meat is often cooked over charcoal, but other heat sources can be used. The main goal of the dish is to capture a deep caramelization from whatever marinade or rub is used to season the meat with, while elevating notes of smokiness from the char. Carne Asada is often associated with tacos here in the United States, but the meat can also be served on a bed of rice and beans.

Spicewalla’s Carne Asada Rub can be used to create a beautifully balanced marinade for whatever meat you’re planning on grilling or roasting. Sprinkle some over your fave roasted veggies, or throw a pinch into a salad dressing or sauce!

Looking for more Carne Asada inspo? Check out our recipe for Carne Asada Tacos here!