Chipotle Steak Fajitas recipe
Chipotle Steak Fajitas are a flavorful and vibrant dish that perfectly combines marinated, grilled steak with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Originating from Tex-Mex cuisine, fajitas have evolved into a beloved meal choice for many, allowing for endless customization and adaptation to various tastes. This dish not only offers a delightful mix of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors but also boasts health benefits, thanks to lean protein, fresh vegetables, and the option for whole-grain tortillas.
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for cooking the marinated steak and achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: Used for sautéing the bell peppers and onions until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the marinade and mixing the steak with it.
- Measuring cups and spoons To accurately measure ingredients for the marinade and seasoning.
- Cutting board For slicing the steak, vegetables, and any additional toppings.
- Chef's Knife: A sharp knife for cutting the steak and chopping vegetables.
- Tongs: To easily flip the steak on the grill and toss the vegetables in the skillet.
- Serving Platter: For presenting the assembled fajitas or a variety of toppings for guests to choose from.
- Aluminum Foil (optional): To keep the tortillas warm or wrap the grilled steak to rest after cooking.
Ingredients
- For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) of skirt steak or flank steak
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Fajitas:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- For Serving:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Toppings (optional)
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Steak
- 1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced chipotle peppers, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- 2. Marinate the Steak: Place the skirt or flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- 2. Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the Vegetables: While the steak is marinating, wash and slice the onion and bell peppers into thin strips. This will ensure they cook evenly and fit nicely in the tortillas.
- 3. Grill the Steak
- 1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over high heat. If using a grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- 2. Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (130°F for medium-rare).
- 3. Let it Rest: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- 4. Sauté the Vegetables
- 1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- 2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- 5. Slice the Steak
- Slice the Steak: After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This ensures tenderness with each bite.
- 6. Assemble the Fajitas
- 1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas on the grill for a few seconds on each side, or in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds.
- 2. Layer the Ingredients: On each tortilla, place a few slices of grilled steak and a generous amount of sautéed vegetables.
- 3. Add Toppings: Top with your favorite garnishes such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- 7. Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the assembled fajitas immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade Chipotle Steak Fajitas!
Notes
Recipe Notes
- Marinating Time: For optimal flavor, allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for several hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even further.
- Steak Options: While skirt steak and flank steak are traditional choices for fajitas, you can also use ribeye, sirloin, or even chicken or shrimp as alternatives.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can be great additions or substitutions.
- Tortilla Choices: Both flour and corn tortillas work well. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole grain or low-carb tortillas.
- Toppings Customization: Personalize your fajitas with a variety of toppings such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce. This allows everyone to customize their fajitas according to their taste preferences.
- Storage: Leftover steak and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. Tortillas are best when fresh, so consider warming them just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your fajitas with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu, and keep the sautéed veggies for a hearty filling.