Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are a delightful treat for any occasion. These tacos bring together the rich flavors of seared skirt steak, zesty chipotle sauce, and crunchy roasted cabbage slaw, all wrapped in warm charred tortillas. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe guarantees satisfaction for meat lovers and flavor enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of chipotle sauce and roasted vegetables creates a robust taste that excites the palate.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, making these tacos is simple and quick, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the toppings or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Sharing: With approximately 12 tacos in this recipe, they are ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
• Nutritious Choices: The inclusion of fresh vegetables and lean meat makes these tacos a healthy option without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw. Below are essential tools that will help you create this delicious dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Sheet pan
• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving a perfect sear on the steak while retaining heat effectively.
• Sheet pan: Great for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring they caramelize beautifully.
• Food processor: Makes blending the chipotle sauce quick and easy for a smooth texture.

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Ingredients

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw serve 4 (approximately 12 tacos). Here’s what you will need:

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 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

• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 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 temperature is perfect for roasting vegetables until tender and caramelized.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

• Place halved peppers and red onion wedges onto a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
• Arrange them cut-side down on the sheet pan.
• Roast for 35–40 minutes until tender. On another sheet pan, toss the sliced cabbage with olive oil, season with salt, and roast for an additional 25–30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Steak

Pat dry the skirt steak and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps achieve an even cook.

Step 4: Make the Chipotle Sauce

In a food processor, combine orange juice, orange zest, chipotle peppers with adobo sauce, and honey. Process until smooth. While blending, slowly add neutral oil to emulsify it. Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Combine Vegetables and Sauce

Once roasted vegetables have cooled slightly:
* Peel skins off peppers.
* Thinly slice red pepper, chop poblano pepper finely, and roughly chop red onion.
* In a mixing bowl, combine all chopped vegetables with green onions and half a cup of chipotle sauce. Toss well.

Step 6: Sear the Steak

Heat enough neutral oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to coat its bottom. Season skirt steak generously with salt:
* Sear each side for about 3–5 minutes or until desired doneness is reached.
* Transfer steak to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To assemble:
* Use charred tortillas as your base.
* Start with roasted cabbage slaw on the bottom followed by slices of steak.
* Drizzle some chipotle sauce over top then sprinkle 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

Steak tacos with chipotle sauce and roasted cabbage slaw are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a meal at home, these tacos offer versatility in presentation and flavor.

Fresh Garnishes

• Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor that complements the chipotle sauce beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos enhances their zestiness.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds crunch and freshness.
• Avocado Crema: A creamy avocado sauce can balance the spice from the chipotle sauce.

Crunchy Additions

• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes provide an appealing crunch and slight peppery flavor.
• Pickled Jalapeños: Adding pickled jalapeños gives your tacos a tangy kick that pairs well with the steak.

Serving Style

• Taco Bar Setup: Create a taco bar where guests can customize their tacos with various toppings, sauces, and garnishes.
• Family-Style Platter: Serve all components on a large platter for guests to assemble their own tacos at the table.

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

Perfecting steak tacos involves attention to detail in both cooking and assembly. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Marinade Choice: Marinating the skirt steak for a few hours enhances its flavor. Use citrus juices or spices for added depth.
• Proper Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak. This creates a beautiful sear and locks in juices.
• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain for tender bites. This makes each piece easier to chew.
• Char Your Tortillas: Charring tortillas adds a smoky flavor and prevents them from tearing when filled.
• Balance Flavors: Ensure there’s a good balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy elements in your chipotle sauce for optimal taste.
• Serve Immediately: Assemble tacos just before serving to keep them warm and crispy for maximum enjoyment.

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

Pairing side dishes with steak tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Spanish Rice: A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the richness of the tacos perfectly.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans are nutritious and add protein, making them an excellent taco accompaniment.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with lime dressing gives sweetness and crunch, balancing out the spicy flavors of your meal.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness that pairs well with crunchy textures in your tacos.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide color and additional flavors, making your plate visually appealing.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer or snack before digging into the main event.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for success.

• Overcooking the Steak: Ensure you monitor the cooking time carefully. Searing for too long can lead to tough steak. Aim for medium-rare to preserve juiciness.
• Ignoring the Marinade: Failing to marinate your steak can result in bland flavor. Allow the steak to sit with spices or marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or stale vegetables will diminish the dish’s taste. Always choose fresh cabbage and peppers for a vibrant slaw.
• Not Charring the Tortillas: Skipping the charring step can make tortillas less flavorful. A quick char over an open flame adds a smoky depth that enhances your tacos.
• Rushing the Assembly: Assembling too quickly may cause tacos to fall apart. Take time to layer ingredients properly for better structure and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover steak tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Place assembled tacos in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30 seconds intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place tacos in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats instead of steak?

Yes! You can easily substitute skirt steak with chicken, turkey, or even lamb, depending on your preference.

How do I make the chipotle sauce spicier?

To enhance the spice levels, add more chipotle peppers from the adobo sauce or include some cayenne pepper into your blended mixture.

Is it possible to make these tacos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the steak with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh, and maintain all other components as is.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different toppings like avocado or salsa. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious taco night!