Carne asada is grilled and sliced beef, usually chuck steak, though skirt steak or flank steak can also be used. It is usually marinated then grilled or seared to impart a charred flavor. Carne asada can be served on its own or as an ingredient in other dishes.
The term carne asada translates literally to "grilled meat"; the English-style dish "roast beef" is called by its English name in Spanish, so that each dish has a distinctive name. The term carne asada is used in Mexico and Central America and refers to the style of grilled meat in those countries. In South America, the term used for grilled meat is asado and it has a different style and preparation.