Juicy Puerto Rican Steakhouse Secrets

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Puerto Rican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a testament to the island’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. At its heart lies a love for bold spices, fresh ingredients, and hearty meals. One such dish that embodies this spirit is the classic Puerto Rican beef steak. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be elevated to new heights with a few creative twists.

Ingredients:

2 pounds flank steak, trimmed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

    • Bistec Encebollado
    Bistec Encebollado

    Image Source: kitchengidget.com

    Preparation:

    1. Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the flank steak and massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring even coverage. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
    2. Sear the Steak: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the excess. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a deep crust forms.
    3. Create the Sauce: Pour the red wine, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano into the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
    4. Finish the Steak: Return the seared steak to the skillet and baste it with the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
    5. Serve: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Pour the sauce over the steak and serve immediately.

    Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating time)

    Serving Ideas:

    Tropical Twist: Serve the steak with a side of tostones (fried green plantains) and a tropical fruit salsa.

  • Caribbean Fusion: Pair the steak with a side of rice and beans and a spicy mango chutney.
  • Classic Comfort: Serve the steak with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

    • This recipe is a fusion of flavors, drawing inspiration from both Puerto Rican and international cuisines. The bold spices and rich sauce pay homage to the island’s culinary heritage, while the steak’s versatility allows for endless possibilities. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by both seasoned home cooks and culinary novices alike.