Home Flavors: Carne Asada Hondureña

As I reflect on the past, the familiar warmth of family get-togethers and the cozy feeling of home come rushing back with every taste of this traditional Honduran meal. The mouthwatering scent of grilled beef blends perfectly with the sweetness of crispy fried plantains and the creamy delight of fresh queso fresco. A side of well-seasoned black beans pairs wonderfully with bright slices of avocado and grilled tomatoes, all beautifully arranged on a lush banana leaf. This is more than just a meal—it’s a heartfelt journey through memory, a delightful reminder of my roots and the shared happiness that comes from gathering around a sturdy wooden table, just as abuela always did.

This past Saturday, I embarked on a delicious and sentimental journey back to my roots with Carne Asada Hondureña, featuring grilled beef, fried plantains, black beans, and fresh queso fresco. It’s Honduras week for me until this Saturday, a special time to celebrate and relish the rich tastes of my homeland. As I savored this traditional dish, I was overwhelmed with fond memories of family gatherings and the vibrant culture that has shaped my life. Here’s to celebrating my beautiful country with every bite!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef strips (flank steak or skirt steak)

• 4 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced

• 1 cup black beans, cooked

• 1 cup white queso fresco, crumbled

• 2 avocados, sliced

• 2 tomatoes, sliced and grilled

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Banana leaves for serving (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

• Lime wedges for serving

For Marinade:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beef strips, mix well, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Grill the Beef and Chorizo: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated beef strips for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking. Grill or fry chorizo slices until crispy and cooked through. Set aside.

3. Fry the Plantains: In the same skillet, add a bit of oil and fry the plantain slices until golden and caramelized on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

4. Prepare the Vegetables: Grill tomato slices until slightly charred. Arrange black beans, avocado slices, and queso fresco on the serving plate.

5. Assemble the Dish: Place a banana leaf on a serving platter if using. Arrange the grilled beef, chorizo, plantains, black beans, avocado, grilled tomatoes, and queso fresco on the platter.

6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lime wedges. Serve with tortillas or rice if desired.

Enjoy this comforting and nostalgic meal, bringing the flavors of a traditional Honduran Carne Asada Hondureña with chorizo to your table!

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