Here’s a classic Mexican Bistec Ranchero — tender, flavorful steak simmered in a spicy tomato-pepper sauce 🍅🌶️🥩
Mexican Bistec Ranchero
Ingredients (4 servings)
-
1½ lbs beef steak (flank, sirloin, or round), about ½-inch thick
-
2 tbsp vegetable oil
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
1 medium onion, sliced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
-
2 jalapeños or serrano peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)
-
1 tsp ground cumin
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
½ cup beef or chicken broth
-
Optional garnish: chopped cilantro and lime wedges
Instructions
-
Prep the steak
-
Season beef with salt and pepper.
-
Pat dry for better browning.
-
-
Sear the steak
-
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Sear steak 2–3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked.
-
Remove steak and set aside.
-
-
Make the ranchero sauce
-
In the same skillet, sauté onions until soft.
-
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
-
Stir in tomatoes, peppers, cumin, and oregano.
-
Simmer 5–7 minutes until tomatoes break down slightly.
-
-
Simmer the steak
-
Return steak to skillet.
-
Add broth and simmer 10–15 minutes, spooning sauce over steak occasionally.
-
Steak should be tender and coated in sauce.
-
-
Serve
-
Slice or serve whole.
-
Garnish with cilantro and lime.
-
Serve with rice, beans, or warm tortillas.
-
Tips & Variations
-
🌶️ Adjust peppers for desired heat.
-
🍅 Blend tomatoes for a smoother sauce if preferred.
-
🥩 Marinate steak in lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor.
-
🧅 Add bell peppers for a slightly sweeter, colorful sauce.
If you want, I can also give you:
-
Quick weeknight skillet version
-
Slow-cooker tender version
-
Bistec Ranchero with potatoes
Do you want me to make one of those?