Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary skirt steak into a culinary masterpiece bursting with zesty citrus and fiery spice. This Mexican-inspired recipe isn't just another boring meat dish—it's a flavor journey that will transport your palate to a vibrant street food experience. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever marinating techniques, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb skirt steak
- Juice of 2 limes
- Juice of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the skirt steak. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the juice of 2 limes and 1 orange. This citrus base will add a refreshing tang to the meat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the citrus juice mixture. The olive oil will help to tenderize the steak and impart a rich flavor.
- Next, incorporate 2 cloves of minced garlic into the marinade. Garlic will enhance the overall flavor profile, adding depth and aroma.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of chili powder. This will give the marinade a spicy kick, complementing the citrus flavors beautifully.
- Season the marinade with salt to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your preference.
- Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the garlic and chili powder are evenly distributed throughout the marinade.
- Place the skirt steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. The citrus juice will tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor.
- When ready to cook, preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove the skirt steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade.
- Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more well-done.
- Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- After resting, slice the skirt steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure tenderness in each bite.
- Serve the spicy citrus marinated skirt steak with your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or tortillas, and enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the steak sit for 1-2 hours will dramatically enhance the flavor penetration.
- Temperature Matters: Always let your steak come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a more consistent cook.
- Slicing Technique: Always slice against the grain to guarantee maximum tenderness. This breaks up the muscle fibers and makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Heat Control: For a perfect medium-rare, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) before resting.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your steak incredibly juicy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 336kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
