Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are a delightful combination of tender steak, smoky chipotle sauce, and vibrant roasted cabbage slaw, all wrapped in charred corn tortillas. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The unique flavors and textures will impress your guests and satisfy your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: Enjoy the rich taste of skirt steak, complemented by the smoky notes of chipotle and the crunchiness of cabbage.
• Quick preparation: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this meal in no time!
• Versatile ingredients: Customize your tacos with your favorite toppings or add extra vegetables for a fresh twist.
• Great for sharing: These tacos are ideal for parties or family gatherings, allowing everyone to build their own delicious creation.
• Healthy option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, these tacos make a wholesome meal choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your culinary experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Sheet pans
• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Excellent heat retention allows for perfect searing of the steak.
• Food processor: Makes blending chipotle sauce quick and easy, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Sheet pans: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly without overcrowding.

Ingredients

servings: 4 (approximately 12 tacos)

For the Steak

• 1 ½ lbs skirt steak
• kosher salt

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 1 lb purple cabbage, cored + thinly sliced
• 1 large red pepper, halved + seeded
• 1 large poblano pepper, halved + seeded
• 1 red onion, cored + cut into ½” wedges
• olive oil

For the Cabbage Slaw

• 4 green onions, thinly sliced

For the Chipotle Sauce

• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1 (7oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• ¾ cup neutral oil (such as safflower)

For Assembly

• 12 tortillas, charred over an open flame
• 6 oz queso fresco, crumbled

How to Make Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures that your vegetables roast perfectly while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

1. Place the halved peppers and red onion wedges onto a sheet pan.
2. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Arrange cut-side down.
3. Roast for 35-40 minutes until tender.
4. On another sheet pan, toss the sliced cabbage with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
5. Spread it into an even layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.

Step 3: Prepare the Steak

Pat the skirt steak dry and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

Step 4: Make the Chipotle Sauce

In a food processor, combine:
– Freshly squeezed orange juice
– Orange zest
– Chipotle peppers (with adobo sauce)
– Honey

Process until smooth. With the processor running, stream in neutral oil until combined. Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Cool & Combine Vegetables

Once roasted, allow vegetables to cool slightly. Peel skins off peppers:
1. Thinly slice red peppers.
2. Finely chop poblano peppers.
3. Roughly chop red onion.

Combine all vegetables in a mixing bowl along with green onions and ½ cup of chipotle sauce; toss to mix well.

Step 6: Cook the Steak

Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add enough neutral oil to coat bottom of skillet.
2. Generously season skirt steak with salt.
3. Sear steak in batches for about 3-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
4. Transfer cooked steak to a cutting board; cover loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into bite-sized pieces.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

In charred tortillas, layer:
1. A generous portion of roasted cabbage slaw on bottom.
2. A few slices of seasoned steak on top.
3. Drizzle additional chipotle sauce over each taco.
4. Finish with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco.

Enjoy your flavorful Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw!

How to Serve Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Serving steak tacos can be a fun and interactive experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your taco night and impress your guests.

Taco Bar

• Create a DIY taco bar where everyone can build their own tacos. Offer various toppings like cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado for added flavor.

Garnishes

• Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a garnish. Their freshness complements the smoky chipotle sauce beautifully.

Salsas

• Add a variety of salsas such as mango salsa or pico de gallo. These add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your tacos.

Drinks

• Pair your steak tacos with refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade or iced tea. These drinks balance the heat from the chipotle sauce.

Extra Sauces

• Serve additional sauces on the side, such as sour cream or guacamole. These creamy options can help tone down the spice for those who prefer milder flavors.

How to Perfect Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Perfecting steak tacos requires some attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Choose the right cut: Use skirt steak for its tenderness and flavor, perfect for quick cooking and slicing.
• Marinate ahead: Consider marinating the steak in spices or citrus juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance its taste.
• Rest the meat: Allow the cooked steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and ensures a moist bite.
• Use fresh tortillas: Opt for freshly made corn tortillas if possible for better texture and flavor. Char them lightly over an open flame for extra smokiness.
• Balance flavors: Ensure your slaw has a mix of crunch, sweetness, and acidity. This contrast will elevate the overall dish.
• Adjust spice level: Modify the amount of chipotle peppers based on your heat preference. Taste test as you blend for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Pairing side dishes with steak tacos enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob coated in lime, chili powder, mayonnaise, and cheese makes a flavorful side.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty option that pairs well with tacos, adding protein and fiber.
3. Guacamole: A classic avocado dip is perfect for scooping or spreading on tacos, providing creaminess and richness.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime offers a refreshing side that balances spicy flavors.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make a perfect appetizer before diving into your tacos.
6. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies grilled to perfection adds color and nutrition to your meal while complementing taco flavors.
7. Black Bean Salad: A chilled black bean salad with corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing is nutritious and adds a vibrant touch.
8. Pickled Red Onions: Tangy pickled red onions provide sharpness that cuts through richness, enhancing each bite of your tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not letting the steak rest: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial. This step lets the juices redistribute, making for a juicier taco. Don’t skip this!

• Overcooking the peppers and onions: If you roast the vegetables too long, they may become mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove them when tender and caramelized.

• Skipping seasoning: Properly seasoning every component, especially the steak, enhances flavor. Don’t be shy with salt and spices!

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before cooking, especially the steak. This helps achieve better searing and flavor.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality tortillas make a significant difference in taste. Always opt for fresh when possible!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover steak tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sauce separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Freeze assembled tacos wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without toppings like queso fresco.

Reheating Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat tacos on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-60 seconds or until warm, but be cautious as this can make tortillas chewy.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw.

Can I use a different type of meat for these tacos?

Yes! You can substitute skirt steak with chicken, turkey, or even lamb for different flavors.

How can I customize my Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro to enhance your tacos’ flavor profile!

What’s the best way to prepare the cabbage slaw?

Make sure to slice the cabbage thinly and season it lightly before mixing it with other veggies for added texture and crunch.

How spicy is the chipotle sauce?

The spiciness of the chipotle sauce can vary based on your preference. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers used if you prefer less heat.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Absolutely! Just ensure they’re properly wrapped before freezing for optimal storage.

Final Thoughts

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different proteins or toppings according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!