Bistec Ranchero Steak Ranchero Recipe

Name: Bistec Ranchero Steak Ranchero Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean sirloin steak (sliced thinly against the grain); 2 garlic cloves (crushed or finely minced); 3 Roma tomatoes (roughly chopped); ½ cup rich tomato sauce (preferably low-sodium); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped (for a vibrant finish)); 1 jalapeño pepper (deseeded and finely chopped); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your favorite vegetable oil); ½ teaspoon ground cumin for a warm (earthy flavor); 2 medium potatoes (diced into bite-sized chunks); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness; ½ onion (sliced into thin half-moons); 1 poblano pepper (finely diced (or substitute with a mild yellow chile))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When I first encountered Bistec Ranchero, I was instantly captivated by its rich flavors and comforting essence. Growing up, meals were always a gathering point for family and friends.

This dish became a staple during Sunday dinners, where laughter and delicious food intertwined. Let me take you on a flavorful journey through this recipe, diving into the heart of what makes Bistec Ranchero so special.

You’ll Also Like These Recipes

What is Bistec Ranchero?

At its core, Bistec Ranchero is a traditional Mexican dish featuring thinly sliced beef, often served in a savory tomato sauce with spices. The term “Ranchero” refers to the rustic style of cooking associated with the countryside, emphasizing simple yet hearty flavors.

A great Bistec Ranchero showcases tender beef complemented by fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant experience for your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Bistec Ranchero Recipe

You might be wondering, “What sets this recipe apart?” Imagine a tender steak, harmoniously paired with a zesty tomato sauce and a hint of spice. Each bite tells a story, evoking memories of joyful gatherings.

The ingredients are straightforward yet come together to create magic. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, you will find joy in crafting this dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can adjust the heat level to suit your taste or incorporate your favorite sides.

The Ingredients

Before we embark on our culinary adventure, let’s gather our star players. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound lean sirloin steak, sliced thinly against the grain
2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely minced
3 Roma tomatoes, roughly chopped
½ cup rich tomato sauce (preferably low-sodium)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for a vibrant finish)
1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (or your favorite vegetable oil)
½ teaspoon ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor
2 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized chunks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
½ onion, sliced into thin half-moons
1 poblano pepper, finely diced (or substitute with a mild yellow chile)

These ingredients blend together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also reflective of traditional cooking methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Slice the sirloin steak thinly against the grain, which will help tenderize the meat. Chop the tomatoes, onions, and both peppers. You want everything ready to go before you start cooking. Trust me, this will streamline the process and keep your cooking journey enjoyable.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to emerge. The sizzling sound is music to the ears!

Step 3: Cooking the Beef

Next, push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the sliced beef to the center. Season generously with salt, pepper, and cumin. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the beef to be browned but not overcooked—nobody enjoys a tough bite!

Step 4: Adding Tomatoes and Sauce

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped tomatoes and the tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the flavors to mingle. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, you can chop the cilantro and get ready for the next step.

Step 5: Preparing the Potatoes

In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. These starchy gems will lend substance to the dish.

Step 6: Adding the Peppers

Return to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Add the diced jalapeño and poblano peppers, stirring to incorporate. These will add a wonderful heat and depth of flavor.

Step 7: Combining Everything

Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the beef mixture. Allow everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes, giving time for the sauce to thicken and the flavors to deepen. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serving

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh finish. Serve hot, perhaps with some warm tortillas or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking is an art, and like any artist, having a few tricks up your sleeve can elevate your dish. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavors significantly. Try to pick ripe tomatoes, firm peppers, and fresh herbs.
Marinate Your Steak: For extra tenderness, marinate the steak in lime juice and garlic for an hour before cooking.
Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, keep the seeds in the jalapeño. For a milder version, remove them entirely.
Experiment with Accompaniments: Serve with rice, beans, or even a fresh salad. Each pairing brings a new dimension to the meal.
Leftovers are Gold: This dish tastes even better the next day. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition Information

Let’s talk nutrition! This Bistec Ranchero is not just delicious; it offers a hearty dose of protein along with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Here’s a brief breakdown per serving:

Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 32g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g

The balance of nutrients makes this a satisfying meal choice, especially after a long day.

Can I Store Bistec Ranchero?

Absolutely! This dish stores wonderfully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, just add a splash of water to keep it from drying out. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What Can I Serve with Bistec Ranchero?

Pairing this dish with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are a few great options:

Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the hearty sauce.
Mexican Rice: A classic pairing that complements the spice.
Refried Beans: Creamy beans add a satisfying texture.
Guacamole: Creamy and refreshing, it balances the heat of the dish.
Fresh Salad: A crisp salad offers a light contrast to the rich flavors.

Delicious Bistec Ranchero Steak Ranchero

Variations

When it comes to cooking, creativity knows no bounds. Here are some variations you can try with Bistec Ranchero:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the steak with sliced portobello mushrooms or a mix of hearty vegetables. This keeps the essence of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.
Add Cheese: Top your finished dish with crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese. It adds a creamy element that balances the spices beautifully.
Pineapple Salsa: Serving the dish with a zesty pineapple salsa can add a refreshing and sweet twist. Combine diced pineapple with red onion and cilantro for a delightful contrast.
Different Cuts of Meat: While sirloin is traditional, you can use flank steak, skirt steak, or even pork. Each choice brings a unique flavor profile.
Make it One-Pan: For easier clean-up, cook everything in one skillet from the start. Add diced potatoes early on to allow them to soften alongside the beef.

Bistec Ranchero Steak Ranchero Recipe

Content Editor

When I first encountered Bistec Ranchero, I was instantly captivated by its rich flavors and comforting essence. Growing up, meals were always a gathering point for family and friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Skillet, Pot

Ingredients

1 pound lean sirloin steak sliced thinly against the grain
2 garlic cloves crushed or finely minced
3 Roma tomatoes roughly chopped
½ cup rich tomato sauce preferably low-sodium
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (for a vibrant finish)
1 jalapeño pepper deseeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil or your favorite vegetable oil
½ teaspoon ground cumin for a warm earthy flavor
2 medium potatoes diced into bite-sized chunks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
½ onion sliced into thin half-moons
1 poblano pepper finely diced (or substitute with a mild yellow chile)