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Best Steak Tacos Recipe

Sharon Brown
Before we embark on our culinary journey into the world of steak tacos, let's talk about what you can sip alongside them. A great drink can elevate any meal, making a simple dinner feel more like a celebration.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 5
Calories 476 kcal

Equipment

  • bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs. rib-eye steak or New York strip preferably well-marbled for maximum flavor
  • 2 tsp minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 3 Tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 ½ tsp smoked ancho chili powder
  • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tsp agave nectar
  • 4 tsp canola oil divided

Instructions
 

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

  • Start by combining the minced garlic, ground cumin, lime juice, black pepper, smoked ancho chili powder, olive oil, sea salt, and agave nectar in a bowl. Mix well to form a marinade.
  • Once combined, coat the rib-eye or New York strip in the marinade, ensuring it's fully covered. Let it sit for at least two hours but ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
  • This will help the flavors work their magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill or Skillet

  • When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully if you don’t have a grill. You want that intense heat to sear the steak perfectly.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

  • Add two teaspoons of canola oil to the hot grill or skillet. Place your marinated steak in and let it sear without moving it for about 4-6 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness.
  • Flip it over and repeat on the other side. For medium-rare, aim for a nice internal temperature of about 135°F.

Step 4: Rest the Steak

  • Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

  • After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Meanwhile, warm your tortillas by placing them on a hot skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they're pliable.
  • Assemble your tacos by layering the sliced steak on the tortillas, then top with diced onions, avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

Here are a few insider tips to ensure your steak tacos are top-notch:
  • Let It Rest: Never skip the resting step. It’s the key to juicy steak.
  • Adjust Spice Level: If you're a fan of heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
  • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the steak as it cooks; overcooked steak can become tough.
  • Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar for gatherings. Let guests build their own tacos with various toppings.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, ripe avocados, and fresh lime juice make all the difference in flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 476kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 26gFat: 40.1gSaturated Fat: 14.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.8gCholesterol: 98mgSodium: 643mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 17mg
Keyword Best Steak Tacos Recipe
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