Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an explosive culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Latin America! These Strip Steaks are not just a meal; they're a flavor-packed experience that combines bold spices, perfect searing techniques, and that irresistible Latin American flair that will make your dinner guests wonder if you've secretly trained with a professional chef. Prepare to unlock a recipe that's so simple yet so stunning, it'll become your new go-to dish for impressing everyone at the table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 strip steaks
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Remove strip steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a spice rub.
- Generously coat both sides of the steaks with the spice mixture, pressing the seasonings gently into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
- Carefully place seasoned steaks in the hot pan, allowing them to sear without moving for 3-4 minutes to develop a rich, golden-brown crust.
- Flip steaks and cook an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Remove steaks from heat and let rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice against the grain and serve with fresh lime wedges to enhance the Latin American flavor profile.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your steaks sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a more consistent cook.
- Moisture Management: Thoroughly pat your steaks dry before seasoning. This critical step helps create that beautiful, crispy exterior when searing.
- Spice Blend Matters: Toast your spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing to enhance their aromatic qualities and deepen the flavor profile.
- Pan Selection: Use a heavy cast-iron skillet or grill pan for the best heat retention and most even searing.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to maintain high pan temperature and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your steaks rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Lime is Your Friend: The fresh lime wedges aren't just a garnish – they cut through the richness of the steak and brighten the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
