Quick and Easy Steak Picado Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a dinner rut, making the same meals week after week? Well, have no fear because I have a recipe that will spice up your dinner routine! Today, I’ll be sharing with you my mouth-watering steak picado recipe that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Originating from Southern California, steak picado, also known as bistec picado or carne picada, is a Mexican version of chopped steak. This dish is made with tender and juicy steak pieces that are simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with an array of peppers, onions, and spices. It’s the perfect combination of savory and spicy that will satisfy any craving.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on warm tortillas or on a bed of rice with a side of refried or pinto beans. It’s also a great addition to taco shells or as a filling for a casserole dish. The possibilities are endless!
But what I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for the busiest of abuelitas. You can cook it on the stovetop in a large skillet, in a crockpot, or in an Instant Pot. Plus, it’s a great recipe for meal prepping as the flavors only get better the next day.
So let’s get started with the ingredient list and step-by-step instructions for this delicious meal that’s sure to become a part of your family cookbook. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Have you ever tasted a dish that made your taste buds sing and dance? Well, get ready to experience just that with my steak picado recipe. Let me tell you why you’re going to love this dish.
First of all, it’s a great recipe for meat-lovers who enjoy the taste of succulent beef. Made with either sirloin or round steak, the steak picado meat is cooked to perfection and infused with spices like chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper, which make the flavors burst in your mouth.
Another reason why you’ll love this recipe is the abundance of vegetables that go into it. With green bell peppers, poblano peppers, jalapeno peppers, and even banana peppers, the dish packs a punch of vitamins and minerals that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
And let’s not forget about the tomato sauce, made with fresh tomatoes, garlic cloves, and vegetable broth. The sauce is the heart of the dish, and it brings all the flavors together in one harmonious symphony. The combination of the tomato sauce and the steak picado meat is what makes this dish stand out from other Mexican dishes.
But what truly makes this recipe a great addition to your dinner routine is its versatility. You can serve it on warm flour tortillas, on a bed of rice, or even as a filling for a taco shell. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends and family, as everyone can customize it to their liking. Plus, with variations like carne asada and carne picado, you can try different takes on the recipe.
In conclusion, my steak picado recipe is a great recipe for meat-lovers, vegetable enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. The combination of tender steak pieces, a flavorful tomato sauce, and an abundance of vegetables make this dish a winner. So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredient List
When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for my steak picado recipe:
- Beef steak: To make steak picado, you can use either sirloin or round steak. I recommend getting a pound of beef from your local grocery store.
- Vegetables: Green bell peppers, poblano peppers, jalapeno peppers, banana peppers, and red onions all contribute to the delicious taste of the dish. The vegetables add a range of textures and flavors to the dish, making it both hearty and healthy.
- Tomato sauce: A great tomato sauce is the foundation of this recipe. You’ll need fresh tomatoes, garlic cloves, and vegetable broth to create a rich, savory sauce.
- Spices: To give the dish some kick, you’ll need chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Olive oil: To cook the steak and vegetables, you’ll need a little bit of oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Make sure to follow the step-by-step instructions closely to ensure the perfect steak picado. With these ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
The Recipe How-To
Cooking steak picado may seem intimidating, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time! Here are the step-by-step instructions for making my steak picado recipe:
- Prep the ingredients: Start by dicing the vegetables and mincing the garlic. Cut the beef into small pieces, about the size of a taco filling.
- Brown the beef: Heat up some oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Saute the vegetables: Add a little bit more oil to the same skillet and heat it up over medium heat. Add the vegetables and saute until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Add the beef back to the skillet: Once the vegetables are done, add the beef back to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the tomato sauce and spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Lower the heat to a low boil and let the mixture simmer for about 45-60 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the steak picado is done, you can serve it with warm tortillas, a side of rice, and refried or black beans. Garnish with some cilantro, sour cream, or hot sauce, if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious steak picado that’s sure to please. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great addition to any family cookbook. So, get cooking and enjoy a delicious meal!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about steak picado is its versatility. You can mix and match different ingredients and still end up with a delicious meal. Here are some variations you can try to make your steak picado recipe even more exciting:
- Spicy steak picado: Add some diced jalapeno or serrano peppers to the mix for an extra kick of heat.
- Green steak picado: Swap out the tomato sauce for tomatillo sauce and add some diced poblano or banana peppers for a green version of the dish.
- Carne asada-style steak picado: Use top sirloin or top round steak instead of sirloin steak, and marinate the beef in red wine and lime juice before cooking for a Mexican version of the dish.
- Ground beef steak picado: If you can’t find sirloin steak, you can use minced meat instead for a different texture.
- Slow-cooker steak picado: Follow the same steps as the stovetop version but cook it in a crockpot for a long time for a more tender meat.
These variations are just a few examples of how you can customize your steak picado recipe. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own. This dish is a great addition to any meal, whether you’re serving it in a taco shell, casserole dish or as a main entree with sides.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serving and pairing suggestions can make or break a meal, and steak picado is no exception. Here are some delicious options to complement this hearty and flavorful dish:
- Warm tortillas: A classic option that never fails. Warm up some flour tortillas on a skillet or in the oven and use them to wrap the steak picado for a traditional taco experience.
- Side of rice and beans: Serve the steak picado over a bed of rice and with a side of refried pinto or black beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Fresh vegetables: Green bell peppers, sliced onions, fresh tomatoes, and avocado are all great options to add some freshness and texture to the dish.
- Hot sauce: If you like a little heat, try serving the steak picado with your favorite hot sauce. Jalapeno or chipotle-based sauces are excellent choices.
- Mexican crema: A dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream on top of the steak picado can balance out the flavors and provide a creamy, cooling contrast to the spices.
- Wine: Red wine is a perfect complement to steak picado. A full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish.
- Beer: A cold beer is a great way to wash down the spiciness of the dish. A light lager or ale will pair nicely with the flavors of the steak picado.
- Salad: If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette can be a refreshing and healthy addition to the meal.
These serving and pairing suggestions are just a few ideas to get you started. Remember to have fun with it and experiment with your own combinations. A great side dish or drink can elevate a good meal to a great one.
Storing and Reheating Options
Storing and reheating steak picado can be a bit tricky, but with a little care and attention, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish for days to come. Here are some tips to help you store and reheat your leftovers:
- Refrigerating leftovers: If you have any leftover steak picado, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The steak picado will keep well for up to four days.
- Freezing leftovers: If you want to store your steak picado for longer, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. The dish will keep well for up to three months.
- Reheating in the microwave: To reheat the steak picado in the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Make sure to stir the dish every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
- Reheating on the stovetop: To reheat the steak picado on the stovetop, add a little bit of oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the steak picado and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Reheating in the oven: To reheat the steak picado in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F. Transfer the steak picado to a casserole dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serving leftovers: Once reheated, you can enjoy the steak picado in the same ways as before. It can be served with warm tortillas, over rice and beans, or as a taco filling.
- Don’t forget to add fresh toppings: If you’re reheating the steak picado, be sure to add fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, or fresh lime juice to give the dish a burst of flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking: When reheating steak picado, be careful not to overcook it, as this can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your leftover steak picado is just as delicious as the first time around.
Chef’s Tips
To ensure that your steak picado turns out perfectly, there are a few tips that you should keep in mind. These tips will help you to cook the meat evenly and to maximize the flavor of the dish. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right cut of beef: Using a top sirloin or top round steak is ideal for this recipe as they are flavorful and tender.
- Cut the meat properly: Cut the steak pieces into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcook the meat: Be careful not to overcook the steak, as this can make it tough and dry.
- Season the meat well: Use a good amount of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder to ensure the meat is flavorful.
- Use fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic, tomatoes, and peppers to maximize the flavor of the dish.
- Cook the vegetables separately: Saute the vegetables in a separate pan and then combine them with the steak pieces to ensure they are cooked properly.
- Add the tomato sauce last: Adding the tomato sauce towards the end of the cooking process will ensure that it doesn’t become too thick or overcooked.
- Let the meat rest: Letting the steak rest for a few minutes before serving will help the juices redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Serve with warm tortillas: Warm tortillas are the perfect accompaniment to this delicious meal.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite ingredients or to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste.
FAQ
What is Picados?
“Picados” are small pieces or diced ingredients, usually used in Mexican cuisine as a preparation technique for meats or vegetables.
What is the difference between carne picada and carne asada?
“Carne picada” is minced or finely chopped meat, while “carne asada” is a grilled or barbecued meat dish. The main difference is in the preparation method, with carne picada being more finely chopped and usually cooked in a sauce or stew.
How many calories are in a steak picado?
The number of calories in a steak picado can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size. Generally, it is a high-protein and high-fat meal that can be relatively high in calories, but can be made more healthy by adjusting the ingredients used or portion sizes.
How to sear a steak on stove?
To sear a steak on a stove, first preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, and add a little bit of oil to the pan. Place the steak in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Is carne picada the same as fajita meat?
While carne picada and fajita meat are both forms of beef that are commonly used in Mexican cuisine, they are not the same thing. Carne picada is more finely chopped or minced than fajita meat, which is typically cut into long strips or slices.
What is picado technique?
The picado technique involves finely chopping or dicing ingredients, usually meats or vegetables, in order to cook them more quickly and evenly. This technique is commonly used in Mexican and other Latin American cuisines, and can be used to prepare dishes such as steak picado, chicken picado, or vegetable picado.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, steak picado is an amazing and versatile recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its mix of tender beef steak, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that’s packed with flavor and is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes, and serve it with different sides and sauces depending on your preferences. And with a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to whip up this dish in no time.
If you’re looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that will please everyone, then steak picado is definitely worth a try. So head to your nearest grocery store and stock up on the ingredients, and get ready to make this amazing dish a part of your family cookbook. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Steak Picado Recipe
Equipment
- large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak sliced into small pieces
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 white onion sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 2 fresh tomatoes diced
- 1 poblano pepper diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper diced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Add the sliced sirloin steak to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, diced poblano pepper, diced jalapeño pepper, and sliced green bell pepper to the skillet.
- Cook the vegetables until they are soft and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced fresh tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
- Stir the ingredients until they are well combined.
- Add the cooked steak back to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour the vegetable broth and tomato sauce over the steak and vegetables.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the Steak Picado with warm tortillas, rice, or refried beans.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness of the recipe by adding or removing the jalapeño pepper.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
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Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.