Tropical Woodfired Steak Tacos with Zesty Guacamole

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that promises bold flavors, smoky aromas, and an unforgettable steak experience: Woodfire Carne Asada with Zesty Mango Guacamole. This isn’t just another grilled meat recipe; it’s a vibrant reinvention of a beloved classic, elevated by a unique tropical marinade and the cutting-edge technology of the Ninja Woodfire Grill.

Carne Asada Tacos and Guacamole. — Flavorful Woodfire Carne Asada Tacos and fresh Mango Guacamole.

Forget the ordinary and get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that combines the best of traditional Mexican flavors with a modern grilling twist. Our Woodfire Carne Asada stands out with its tender, juicy steak infused with a sweet and tangy mango marinade, perfectly seared on the Ninja Woodfire Grill for that irresistible crust and smoky depth. Paired with a refreshingly bright mango guacamole, this meal is destined to become a staple for your taco nights, backyard barbecues, or any occasion craving extraordinary taste.

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Contents

What is Woodfire Carne Asada?
The Ultimate Woodfire Carne Asada Marinade
Why the Ninja Woodfire Grill is a Game Changer
Mastering the Grill: Tips for Perfect Carne Asada
The Zesty Sidekick: Mango Guacamole
Woodfire Carne Asada with Mango Guacamole Recipe
Essential Equipment & Ingredients
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What is Woodfire Carne Asada? A Modern Twist on a Mexican Staple

Carne Asada, literally translating to “grilled meat,” is a culinary cornerstone of Mexican cuisine. This beloved dish typically features thin cuts of beef, most commonly skirt steak or flank steak, marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus juices, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs. The marinated meat is then grilled over high heat, resulting in a tender, flavorful steak with a beautiful char. It’s a dish celebrated for its simplicity, robust flavor, and incredible versatility, often served as the star of tacos, burritos, or as a main course alongside rice and beans.

In this innovative recipe, we honor the traditions of classic carne asada while introducing an exciting new dimension with the Ninja Woodfire Grill. This isn’t your average outdoor grill; it’s a powerhouse that brings together the intense heat of an electric grill with authentic woodfire flavor, all in one compact unit. By utilizing this advanced grilling technology, we’re able to impart a subtle, savory smokiness to the steak that complements the marinade beautifully, taking the “grilled meat” concept to an entirely new level of deliciousness.

Our unique twist doesn’t stop at the grilling method. While many traditional carne asada recipes call for orange juice to provide a citrusy sweetness, we’ve opted for mango juice. This tropical addition infuses the skirt steak with a distinct sweetness and bright, fruity notes that perfectly balance the savory, spicy elements of the marinade. The Ninja Woodfire Grill, with its ability to maintain precise high temperatures on a flat griddle, ensures a superior sear, locking in all the tender, juicy goodness that makes carne asada so irresistibly delicious. This combination of traditional flavors, innovative grilling, and a tropical touch makes our Woodfire Carne Asada a true standout.

The Ultimate Woodfire Carne Asada Marinade: A Symphony of Sweet, Smoky & Tangy

The secret to an exceptional carne asada lies in its marinade, and ours is no exception. This meticulously crafted blend is designed to tenderize the skirt steak while infusing it with layers of complex flavors that are both familiar and exciting. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a marinade that is truly transformative:

Soy Sauce: Provides a rich umami depth, enhancing the savory qualities of the beef and helping to tenderize it.
Mango Juice: This is our unique tropical secret weapon! It adds a delicate sweetness and a fruity tang that beautifully complements the other flavors, giving the carne asada an exotic, juicy twist that traditional versions lack.
Lime Juice & White Vinegar: These acidic components are essential for tenderizing the meat fibers, breaking them down to ensure a melt-in-your-mouth texture. They also provide a vibrant, zesty tang that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Avocado Oil: A neutral, high-smoke-point oil that helps carry the fat-soluble flavors into the meat and promotes an even sear on the grill.
Fresh Cilantro: Offers a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that is quintessential to Mexican cuisine.
Minced Garlic: Eight cloves might sound like a lot, but this generous amount is critical for that bold, pungent garlic flavor that truly defines a great carne asada.
Smoked Paprika & Cumin: These spices bring warmth, earthy depth, and a hint of smoky sweetness, contributing to the classic Mexican flavor profile. The smoked paprika further enhances the woodfire essence from the grill.
Mexican Oregano: Distinct from Mediterranean oregano, Mexican oregano has stronger citrus and earthy notes, adding an authentic and irreplaceable aroma to the marinade.
White Pepper: Adds a subtle, refined peppery kick without the harshness of black pepper, allowing the other flavors to shine.

To achieve maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, it’s crucial to give your skirt steak ample time to soak in this magical concoction. While a minimum of two hours will yield good results, we highly recommend marinating the steak overnight in a gallon freezer bag. The longer the meat bathes in this flavorful blend, the more deeply the juices and spices infuse into every fiber, guaranteeing a truly succulent and flavorful outcome. This extended marination period is a small investment of time that pays off immensely in the final dish.

Why the Ninja Woodfire Grill is a Game Changer for Carne Asada

For any grilling enthusiast, the Ninja Woodfire Grill isn’t just an appliance; it’s an innovation that transforms outdoor cooking. When it comes to preparing thin cuts of meat like skirt steak for carne asada, this grill truly shines. Here’s why it’s the perfect tool for achieving grilling perfection:

Unparalleled High Heat & Quick Preheat: The Ninja Woodfire Grill heats up incredibly fast and maintains consistently high temperatures, which is precisely what you need for skirt steak. High heat is crucial for developing that coveted, deeply browned crust (the Maillard reaction) on the exterior of the steak without overcooking the interior.
The Power of the Flat Griddle: Traditional ribbed grill grates are excellent for char marks, but they can sometimes leave parts of a thin steak unseared. The Ninja Woodfire’s optional flat griddle accessory ensures full, even contact with the entire surface of the meat. This maximized contact means a uniform, crispy crust across the whole steak, locking in juices and maximizing flavor development.
Direct Heat Cooking for Thin Cuts: Skirt steak is thin, meaning it cooks rapidly. Cooking with the lid closed on a traditional grill can sometimes lead to an uneven cook, creating a “gray band” around the edges. The Ninja Woodfire Grill allows for effective direct heat grilling with the lid open. This technique is vital for thin cuts, as it prevents overcooking and ensures the steak cooks hot and fast, resulting in a beautiful medium-rare center with a perfectly seared exterior.
Authentic Woodfire Flavor (Optional, but Amazing!): While this specific recipe for carne asada doesn’t explicitly call for smoking during the main cook (focusing on high-heat grilling), the Ninja Woodfire’s core capability to infuse food with real woodfire flavor is a massive advantage for other recipes or even a quick pre-grill smoke. It delivers that coveted smoky taste that typically requires a much more complex setup, all at the touch of a button.
Precision Temperature Control: Even at high heat, the Ninja Woodfire offers remarkable temperature consistency. This control is vital when cooking delicate cuts like skirt steak, allowing you to achieve the perfect doneness without guesswork.

By leveraging the Ninja Woodfire Grill, you’re not just cooking; you’re orchestrating a symphony of heat, sear, and flavor that transforms humble skirt steak into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. It streamlines the grilling process, making it easier than ever to achieve restaurant-quality results in your own backyard.

Mastering the Grill: Tips for Perfectly Tender Woodfire Carne Asada

Achieving perfectly tender and juicy carne asada requires more than just a great marinade and grill; it also demands specific grilling techniques. Follow these expert tips to ensure your Woodfire Carne Asada is absolutely flawless:

Flip Frequently for Even Cooking: This might go against some traditional grilling advice, but for thin cuts like skirt steak on high heat, frequent flipping is your secret weapon. Instead of letting one side cook for an extended period, flip the steak every 30-60 seconds. This method achieves several things:
- Even Heat Distribution: Prevents one side from getting too hot or drying out.
- Superior Crust Development: Allows both sides to develop a beautiful, even crust without burning.
- Prevents Overcooking: By constantly moving the steak, you minimize the risk of a gray, overcooked exterior and ensure a juicy interior.
Each time you flip, move the steak to a slightly different, hotter part of the griddle to ensure consistent searing. Consider using a grill press or a sturdy spatula to gently press the steak down for maximum contact with the hot griddle, enhancing the crust.
Monitor Internal Temperature: Don’t rely solely on visual cues. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. For a perfect medium-rare, aim to pull the steak off the grill when it reaches 125°F (52°C). Remember, the steak will continue to cook a few degrees more during the resting period.
The Crucial Resting Period: Once your steak reaches the target temperature, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest undisturbed for at least 10 minutes. This step is non-negotiable for juicy steak:
- Juice Redistribution: As meat cooks, its internal juices are pushed towards the center. Resting allows these juices to redistribute evenly throughout the steak. If you cut into it too soon, those delicious juices will spill out, leaving you with dry meat.
- Carryover Cooking: During rest, the steak’s internal temperature will continue to rise by a few degrees (known as carryover cooking), reaching a final medium-rare temperature of approximately 134°F (57°C).
Tent the steak loosely with foil during resting to keep it warm.
Slice Against the Grain: Skirt steak has a very pronounced grain (the direction of the muscle fibers). To ensure maximum tenderness, it is absolutely critical to slice the cooked steak against the grain, or perpendicular to it. Find the lines of the muscle fibers and cut across them at an angle. Slicing with the grain will result in tough, chewy pieces, regardless of how perfectly cooked your steak is. A sharp knife is your best friend here.

By implementing these techniques, you’ll transform your Woodfire Carne Asada from merely good to truly spectacular, guaranteeing tender, flavorful bites every time.

The Zesty Sidekick: Mango Guacamole for a Tropical Pairing

What’s a carne asada feast without the perfect accompaniment? Our Woodfire Carne Asada finds its ideal partner in a vibrant, refreshing, and surprisingly zesty Mango Guacamole. This isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a crucial element that complements the rich, smoky flavors of the steak with its bright, sweet, and tangy profile.

Just like our marinade, the guacamole features a delightful twist: mango juice. This innovative addition infuses the creamy avocado with a subtle tropical sweetness that elevates the entire dish. It’s a fantastic contrast to the savory steak, providing a refreshing counterpoint that cleanses the palate and invites another bite. Beyond the mango juice, our guacamole is built on a foundation of classic ingredients:

Ripe Avocados: The star of the show. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best creamy texture.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of herbaceous freshness.
Diced Tomato: Provides a juicy, slightly acidic counterpoint.
Diced Onion: Offers a sharp, pungent bite that adds depth.
Lime Juice: Essential for brightness, tang, and to prevent the avocados from browning.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.

Preparing this guacamole is straightforward: simply mash your ripe avocados to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth), then stir in the mango juice, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the chopped tomato, diced onion, and cilantro. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed – perhaps a little more lime for zing, or a touch more mango juice for sweetness. This fresh, vibrant guacamole is anything but ordinary, creating a harmonious balance with the bold flavors of the carne asada, making every taco or chip dip an explosion of taste.

Why This Woodfire Carne Asada Recipe is a Must-Try

In a world of countless carne asada recipes, our Woodfire Carne Asada with Mango Guacamole truly distinguishes itself. It’s not just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting an experience that excites the palate and simplifies the cooking process. Here’s what makes this recipe a definite must-try:

Innovative Flavor Profile: The star attraction is undoubtedly the unique mango-infused marinade. This tropical twist moves beyond the expected citrus, offering a sweet, tangy, and subtly exotic flavor that perfectly balances the savory richness of the steak and the smoky depth from the grill. It’s a refreshing departure that makes every bite memorable.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Advantage: This recipe harnesses the full potential of the Ninja Woodfire Grill. The grill’s ability to deliver intense, consistent heat on a flat griddle ensures an unparalleled sear and crust on the thin skirt steak, while its woodfire technology adds a layer of authentic smoky flavor that is difficult to achieve with conventional grills. It streamlines the process, making gourmet grilling accessible and easy.
Perfectly Tender Steak, Every Time: With detailed guidance on marination, frequent flipping, temperature control, and crucial resting and slicing techniques, this recipe guarantees a tender, juicy steak. We demystify the process, ensuring even novice grillers can achieve professional-level results.
Harmonious Pairing: The accompanying mango guacamole isn’t just a side dish; it’s an integral part of the experience. Its sweet and zesty profile beautifully complements the robust, smoky flavors of the carne asada, creating a balanced and exciting meal. This thoughtful pairing elevates the entire dish.
Versatility for Any Occasion: While it’s the ultimate recipe for an epic taco night, this Woodfire Carne Asada is incredibly versatile. Serve it sliced over rice for a hearty meal, folded into burritos, as a protein for vibrant salads, or as a show-stopping main course alongside your favorite grilled vegetables. Its impressive flavor profile makes it suitable for casual family dinners and impressive backyard gatherings alike.

This recipe is more than just instructions; it’s an invitation to explore new flavors and master modern grilling techniques. It promises a dining experience that combines comfort with innovation, leaving you and your guests completely satisfied and eager for the next gathering.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Grilling Game with Woodfire Carne Asada

If you’re ready to transcend ordinary grilling and truly elevate your culinary skills, this Woodfire Carne Asada with Zesty Mango Guacamole recipe is your golden ticket. It’s a symphony of bold flavors, from the unique tropical sweetness of the mango marinade to the irresistible smokiness imparted by the Ninja Woodfire Grill. Each element, from the perfectly seared, tender skirt steak to the vibrant and refreshing guacamole, comes together to create a dish that is not just a meal, but a memorable experience.

Whether you’re planning a lively taco night with friends, a special family dinner, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary outdoor cooking adventure, this recipe delivers on every front. The ease and efficiency of the Ninja Woodfire Grill, combined with our thoughtfully crafted marinade and side dish, ensure that you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results with confidence and flair.

So, ignite your passion for grilling, fire up your Ninja Woodfire, and prepare to savor the best carne asada you’ve ever tasted. Get ready for rave reviews and empty plates!

Woodfire Carne Asada with Mango Guacamole Recipe

Woodfire Carne Asada with Mango Guacamole

This Woodfire Carne Asada recipe delivers bold, smoky flavor using a unique mango marinade and the Ninja Woodfire Grill. With skirt steak grilled to perfection and a twist on traditional guacamole, this recipe is perfect for taco night or any gathering. The high heat of the Ninja Woodfire ensures a perfect sear and juicy interior every time.

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Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
Mexican

Prep Time:

1 day

20 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Resting Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

1 day

45 minutes

Servings:
6

Calories:
1117kcal

Author:
Dad

Equipment

▢
Ninja Woodfire Grill
▢
Ninja Woodfire Flat Top Griddle
▢
Gallon Freezer Bag
▢
Wood Pellets (Optional, for smoke flavor)
▢
Sharp Knife
▢
Cutting Board
▢
Instant-Read Thermometer

Ingredients

For the Woodfire Carne Asada Steak Marinade

▢ 3 lb Skirt Steak
▢ ½ Cup Fresh Chopped Cilantro
▢ ⅓ Cup Soy Sauce
▢ ⅓ Cup Avocado Oil
▢ ½ Cup Mango Juice
▢ ⅓ Cup Lime Juice
▢ 3 tablespoons White Vinegar
▢ 8 Minced Garlic Cloves
▢ 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
▢ 1 tablespoon Cumin
▢ 2 tablespoons Mexican Oregano
▢ 1 teaspoon White Pepper

For the Zesty Mango Guacamole

▢ 3 Large Ripe Avocados
▢ ⅓ Cup Mango Juice
▢ 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice
▢ 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
▢ 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
▢ 1 Ripe Tomato chopped
▢ 3 tablespoons Diced Red Onion
▢ ¼ Cup Fresh Chopped Cilantro

For Serving (Tacos)

▢ 8 Corn Tortillas
▢ Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Preparing the Woodfire Carne Asada Steak

Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients (cilantro, soy sauce, avocado oil, mango juice, lime juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, Mexican oregano, and white pepper) and mix thoroughly. Place the skirt steak into a gallon-sized freezer bag, pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag, pressing out excess air. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but for optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate overnight (8-12 hours).
Setup and Preheat the Ninja Woodfire Grill: Insert the Flat Top griddle accessory into your Ninja Woodfire Grill. Close the lid and set the grill to the “Grill HI” setting. Allow it to fully preheat until it reaches the desired high temperature. For this recipe, we are not utilizing the smoker function, so there’s no need to add wood pellets unless you desire an extra smoky flavor.
Grill the Steak to Perfection: Carefully place the marinated skirt steak onto the hot griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping frequently (every 30-60 seconds) and moving the steak to different hot spots on the griddle to ensure an even, beautiful crust. You can use a grill press or a sturdy spatula to press the steak down gently, maximizing contact with the hot surface for a better sear. Continue grilling and flipping until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare.
Rest the Steak: Once cooked, transfer the steak to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for a full 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and incredibly juicy finished product. The internal temperature will also continue to rise slightly during this time.
Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This is vital for tenderness! Serve immediately with your mango guacamole and warm tortillas. Enjoy!

Making the Zesty Mango Guacamole

Prepare the Avocados: Halve the ripe avocados lengthwise, remove the pits, and scoop the creamy flesh into a large mixing bowl.
Mash the Avocados: Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the avocados to your preferred texture. Some prefer a chunky guacamole, while others like it smoother.
Add Liquids: Pour in the ⅓ cup of mango juice and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Stir well until evenly combined into the mashed avocado. This adds a fantastic sweet and tangy note.
Season: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
Fold in Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in the chopped tomato, diced red onion, and fresh chopped cilantro. Stir until all ingredients are well distributed throughout the guacamole.
Taste and Adjust: Taste your guacamole and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or lime juice to suit your preference.
Serve: Transfer the finished guacamole to a serving bowl. Serve immediately with the Woodfire Carne Asada, warm corn tortillas, or your favorite tortilla chips.

Assembling Your Tacos

Warm Tortillas: Return the Ninja Woodfire Grill to the “Grill HI” setting (or use a comal/skillet). Once preheated, add a tiny amount of oil to the griddle. Place corn tortillas on the hot surface, cooking until they start to bubble and show slight char marks, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
Assemble Tacos: Place a warm tortilla on a plate. Layer with generous slices of the Woodfire Carne Asada. Top with a dollop of zesty mango guacamole. Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the top for an extra burst of flavor, and enjoy your delicious homemade tacos!

Video Tutorial

Nutrition Information (per serving)

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Essential Equipment and Ingredient Links

To help you create this incredible Woodfire Carne Asada at home, here are some of the key tools and unique ingredients that I used:

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Grill & Accessories:

Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL Grill: The star of the show for achieving that perfect sear and smoky flavor.

https://ninjakitchen.pxf.io/k0JNLN
Ninja Woodfire Grill Griddle: Essential for maximizing contact and creating that consistent, beautiful crust on your skirt steak.

https://amzn.to/3S2Dpnd

Key Ingredients:

Pineapple Nectar (for an alternative mango juice flavor profile): If you want to experiment or can’t find mango juice, pineapple nectar can offer a similar tropical sweetness.

https://amzn.to/4egjBFx
Sassy-Q BBQ Rub: A versatile rub that can add an extra layer of flavor to your steak or other grilled dishes.

https://amzn.to/3z5v3VR

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