Mexican Bistec Ranchero

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Bistec Ranchero is a beloved Mexican dish that combines thinly sliced beef with fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices, creating a flavorful, rustic meal. It’s a dish with deep roots in Mexican cooking, known for its simplicity, savoriness, and ease of preparation. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin, ribeye, or similar cuts work well)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 medium white onion, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Tortillas (corn or flour), warmed, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef with salt, pepper, and a bit of cumin. The beef slices should be very thin, almost like fajita strips, so they cook quickly.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Beef: Add the seasoned beef to the skillet, cooking until browned on both sides. This should take about 5-6 minutes. You want the beef to develop a bit of crust but remain tender.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Jalapeño: Add the diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeño to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and form a light sauce. Season with more salt, pepper, and the remaining cumin and oregano. Lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and squeeze lime juice over the bistec. Serve with warm tortillas and additional lime wedges on the side.

Serving Tips:

Serve the Bistec Ranchero with a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, or even guacamole. The sauce-soaked beef is perfect for wrapping in tortillas for a taco-style meal or enjoying with rice.

This dish is not only comforting but also flexible. You can make it spicier with more jalapeño, or add a bit of bell pepper for extra flavor. Enjoy your homemade taste of Mexico!

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