Smoky Espresso Rubbed Flank Steak Fajitas
Tender, smoky flank steak kissed with a hint of espresso mingles with colorful bell peppers and onions for a fiesta of flavors.
Total: 40 minPrep: 20 minCook: 20 minServes 4Difficulty: Medium⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1/4 cup espresso grounds
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 8 flour tortillas, warmed
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Steps
- 1 In a small bowl, mix espresso grounds, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne to form the rub.
- 2 Rub the mixture all over the flank steak, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- 3 Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- 4 Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- 5 While the steak rests, grill the bell peppers and onions until softened and marked by the grill, about 5 minutes.
- 6 Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- 7 Serve the steak and veggies wrapped in warm tortillas, garnished with cilantro.
Equipment
- Grill
- Cast-iron skillet (optional)
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Variations
- For a milder kick, reduce the cayenne pepper.
- Substitute flank steak with skirt steak for a similar texture.
Substitutions
- Use coffee powder if espresso grounds are unavailable.
- Corn tortillas can replace flour for a gluten-free option.
Pairings
- Pairs well with Mexican rice and refried beans.
- A crisp lager complements the smoky, rich steak.
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
30g carbohydrates
Protein:
35g protein
Fiber:
4g fiber
Sugar:
8g sugar
Sodium:
500mg sodium
Tips
- For a smokier flavor, use a mix of instant and coarse espresso grounds.
- If grilling isn't an option, a cast-iron skillet works wonders indoors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of guacamole and fresh salsa.
- A wedge of lime on the side adds a refreshing zing.
FAQ
Can I prepare the steak rub ahead of time?
Absolutely! Rub the steak and let it marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.