Bistec a la Mexicana is a traditional Mexican dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a flavorful and slightly spicy dish that’s perfect for serving with rice, beans, and tortillas.
Bistec a la Mexicana
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef (sirloin, flank, or round steak)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2-3 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
- If your beef slices are large, cut them into smaller, bite-sized strips.
2. Cook the Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef strips and season with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced onions and cook for another 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine everything.
- Lower the heat to medium and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and create a sauce.
4. Simmer:
- Let the mixture simmer until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- If using, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the dish before serving.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Bistec a la Mexicana with warm corn or flour tortillas.
- Pair it with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
- Add a side of guacamole or fresh salsa for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Meat: You can use other cuts of beef like skirt steak or even chicken breast as a variation.
- Extras: Add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish for added texture and flavor.
This flavorful and easy Bistec a la Mexicana recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy traditional Mexican flavors in a quick, satisfying meal!
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