Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw

How to make Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw

Flank steak tacos are a perfect dish for gatherings and casual dinners. The tender and flavorful steak, combined with a crunchy slaw, creates a delightful meal that is both easy to make and satisfying. Let’s delve into making these delicious tacos.

Ingredients

To make Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds flank steak
• 1 tablespoon ginger (peeled and chopped)
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (not lite)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 lime
• 1 cup coarsely chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup coarsely chopped Fuji apple
• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup matchstick-cut cucumber (2–3 Persian/Salad or 1 English cucumber)
• 1 cup coarsely chopped cilantro (1 bunch—stems and leaves; measure before chopping)
• 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons mayo (I love Hellman’s/Best Foods)
• 2-1/4 teaspoons Sriracha
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 limes
• Salt and pepper
• Flour tortillas (street-taco-sized, plus cooking spray)
• Cilantro (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Steak: Start by removing the flank steak from its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel. If the steak is wider than 4 inches, cut it in half lengthwise. Slice the steak into thin strips against the grain and place the pieces in a large plastic bag.

2. Make the Marinade: In a powerful food processor or blender, combine all the marinade ingredients, including the ginger, soy sauce, light brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Pulse until the ingredients are well mixed into a thick paste. Pour this marinade over the steak in the plastic bag and seal it tightly, removing excess air. Massage the marinade into the steak and refrigerate for at least an hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.

3. Prepare the Sauce: While the steak marinates, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients together. This includes more lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, toasted sesame oil, Sriracha, and mayo. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and store it in the fridge for later.

4. Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine all the slaw ingredients: shredded cabbage, matchstick carrots, cucumbers, chopped cilantro, and chopped Fuji apple. Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice and use tongs to gently toss everything together until well combined. Toss a few more times right before serving.

5. Cook the Steak: Take the steak out of the fridge 15–20 minutes before you cook it. Preheat a large nonstick pan over high heat for about 1–2 minutes without adding any oil. Cook the steak in batches. Use tongs to grab some of the marinated steak and add it to the hot pan, making sure it’s in a single layer. You should hear a loud sizzle if the pan is hot enough. Let the steak cook for about 2–3 minutes until lightly browned, then flip it and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the beef is cooked through, and the marinade has caramelized. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and cover it with foil. Repeat the process until all the steak is cooked.

6. Warm the Tortillas: While the steak is cooking, warm or slightly char your flour tortillas.

7. Assemble the Tacos: Once everything is ready, take the warm tortillas and fill them with cooked beef, slaw, and plenty of sauce. Enjoy immediately!

Why You’ll Love This Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw

Flank steak tacos with slaw are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender, marinated steak pairs perfectly with the crisp and refreshing slaw. The sauce adds an extra layer of creaminess and spice that elevates the dish to another level. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick and Easy: The preparation is straightforward, and the marinating process can be done in advance, making dinner time stress-free.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients in the slaw as per your preference.
• Flavorful: The marinade and slaw bring a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Nutrients Benefits

Flank steak is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Here are some benefits of the key ingredients in this dish:

• Flank Steak: Rich in protein, iron, and zinc, flank steak is beneficial for muscle strengthening and energy.
• Cabbage: Loaded with vitamins C and K, cabbage also supports a healthy immune system and digestion.
• Carrots: High in beta-carotene and fiber, carrots are excellent for eye health and digestive function.
• Cilantro: This herb not only adds flavor but is also a source of antioxidants and dietary fiber.

What to Serve With Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw

Flank steak tacos pair wonderfully with several sides. Here are a few suggestions to complement your meal:

• Mexican Rice: A side of Mexican rice can add texture and absorb the flavors of your tacos.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are a perfect accompaniment for a hearty meal.
• Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole balances the crunch of the slaw beautifully.
• Salsa: A good salsa adds freshness and a zesty kick.

How to Store Flank Steak Tacos with Slaw

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their quality:

• Steak: Place cooked steak in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Slaw: Store slaw in a separate container to keep it crisp. It can last about 2-3 days in the fridge.
• Tortillas: Store unused tortillas in their packaging or a sealed bag to prevent them from drying out.

When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the steak and serve with fresh slaw and tortillas for a quick meal.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t Rush the Marinade: Allow adequate time for marination. Even a short marination adds flavor, but an overnight soak is best.
• Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness in each bite.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking the meat in batches ensures that it browns properly and doesn’t steam.

Variations

Feel free to mix things up! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

• Protein Swap: Replace flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or even grilled vegetables for a different protein source.
• Different Slaw: Experiment with different vegetables like radishes, bell peppers, or even a creamy coleslaw.
• Tortilla Options: Try corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use the marinade for chicken or pork?
   Yes! The marinade works well for chicken and pork, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the slaw a day in advance, just keep it covered in the fridge.

3. What if I don’t have flank steak?
   You can substitute it with skirt steak, sirloin, or other cuts of beef that are suitable for quick cooking.

Flank steak tacos with slaw make a fulfilling meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. With easy preparation and delicious results, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!

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