Imagine a taco, not just any taco, but one that marries the bold flavors of a classic steakhouse with the vibrant spirit of Mexican street food. A taco that’s not only delicious but also a testament to the beautiful fusion of culinary traditions. This is the Elote-Crusted Steak Taco, a dish that celebrates the unexpected and tantalizes the taste buds.
Ingredients:
Grilled Steak Tacos, Corn Elote
Image Source: anotherfoodblogger.com
1.5 pounds flank steak, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 ears of corn, husked and silked
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning
12 corn tortillas, warmed
Your favorite toppings: avocado, pickled onions, radishes, salsa, crema
Preparation Process:
1. Prep the Steak:
Season the flank steak with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
2. Make the Elote Crema:
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Mix well until smooth and creamy.
3. Grill the Corn:
Brush corn with melted butter and sprinkle with Tajín seasoning.
Grill corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
Let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the corn tortillas.
Spread a generous amount of Elote Crema on each tortilla.
Top with thinly sliced steak and grilled corn kernels.
Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, pickled onions, radishes, salsa, or crema.
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
A Cultural Fusion
The Elote-Crusted Steak Taco is a celebration of flavors and cultures. It draws inspiration from the bold, smoky flavors of classic American steakhouse cuisine, and the vibrant, zesty flavors of Mexican street food. The Elote, a beloved Mexican street corn dish, adds a touch of sweetness and spice to the savory steak.
The result is a dish that is both familiar and exotic, a culinary journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the elegant dining rooms of New York City. It’s a dish that proves that the best flavors often come from unexpected places.
