Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that's ready in minutes? Look no further than Bistec a la Mexicana! This classic Mexican recipe is a delightful dance of tender steak, juicy tomatoes, vibrant onions, and spicy peppers. It's the perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a fantastic showcase of homemade cooking at its finest. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Tortillas or rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sizzle the Steak
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Add the steak to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Stir in the bell pepper and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes more, until slightly softened.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Return the steak to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak is cooked to your liking and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with warm tortillas or rice. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a delightful brightness.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Marinate the steak in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and oregano for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with your favorite sides, such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.
- Leftovers are a bonus: This dish tastes even better the next day!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Bistec a la Mexicana recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious food. It's a healthy meal option that's quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious and easy dish, and don't forget to share your culinary creations with us!