When it comes to family - friendly recipes, few things can beat the allure of a well - crafted steak dish. In this article, we're going to explore the wonderful world of flank steak fajita burritos, a recipe that is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Let's start with the star of the show: the flank steak. Flank steak is a lean, flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It has a distinct grain that runs through the meat, which means it needs to be sliced against the grain when serving to ensure tenderness. This cut is also relatively affordable compared to some other premium steaks, making it a great option for feeding a crowd.
To begin our fajita burrito adventure, we first need to marinate the flank steak. The marinade is what gives the steak its incredible flavor. You can create a simple yet effective marinade using ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Start with a base of olive oil, which helps to keep the steak moist during cooking and also acts as a carrier for the other flavors. Add some freshly squeezed lime juice. The acidity of the lime not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a bright, citrusy note. A couple of cloves of minced garlic will bring a savory depth, and a teaspoon of chili powder will introduce a bit of heat and smokiness.
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all the marinade ingredients in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Place the flank steak in the marinade, making sure it is well - coated on all sides. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for even more flavor, you can leave it overnight. The longer the marinating time, the more the flavors will penetrate the meat.
While the steak is marinating, it's time to prepare the other components of the fajita burrito. Start with the vegetables. You'll need some bell peppers and onions. Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, such as red, green, and yellow, and each color has its own unique flavor profile. Red peppers are the sweetest, while green peppers have a more slightly bitter and fresh taste. Slice the bell peppers and onions into thin strips. Heat a large skillet over medium - high heat and add a little bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced vegetables and sauté them until they are tender - crisp. Season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
Now, it's time to cook the steak. Preheat your grill or a heavy - bottomed skillet over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps to ensure a nice sear on the outside of the steak. Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet and cook for about 4 - 5 minutes per side for medium - rare, depending on the thickness of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium - rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
While the steak is resting, warm up some flour tortillas. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side, or you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds. This makes the tortillas more pliable and easier to roll.
To assemble the fajita burritos, start by slicing the rested flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Place a few strips of steak, along with some of the sautéed vegetables, in the center of a warm tortilla. You can also add some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a gooey and delicious touch. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Then, fold the bottom of the tortilla over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it up tightly to form a burrito.
The beauty of these flank steak fajita burritos is that they are highly customizable. If you're not a fan of sour cream, you can use guacamole instead. You can also add other toppings like salsa, pickled jalapeños, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce. For a healthier option, you can use whole - wheat tortillas or even lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas.
In conclusion, this flank steak fajita burrito recipe is a winner. It combines the rich, savory flavor of flank steak with the fresh, vibrant flavors of vegetables and a variety of toppings. It's easy to make, affordable, and most importantly, it's a dish that the whole family will love. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, give these fajita burritos a try. Your taste buds and your family will thank you!
