Cast-Iron Seared Flank Steak Tacos

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"Cast-Iron Seared Flank Steak Tacos feature marinated and seared flank steak served in warm tortillas with tangy red cabbage slaw and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a vibrant and satisfying fusion of flavors."
-- @hecooksco

Recipe Description

Cast-Iron Seared Flank Steak Tacos embody a culinary celebration that brings together a rich tapestry of flavors and textures, expertly layered to create a dish that is as satisfying as it is vibrant. The star of the show, flank steak, is marinated in a zesty concoction of citrus juices, soy sauce, Worcestershire, and a blend of spices that penetrate deep into the meat, infusing it with complexity and a hint of smokiness. This marinated steak is then seared in a hot cast-iron skillet to achieve a perfectly caramelized crust while maintaining a tender and juicy interior, which is essential for the perfect bite. The marinade is composed thoughtfully, using lime and orange juices for their brightness and incorporating the rinds to deepen the citrus undertones without overpowering the steak’s natural flavor. Adding paprika, chili powder, and brown sugar introduces a sweet heat that caramelizes beautifully when seared, offering a robust, bold, and inviting flavor profile. Freshly chopped cilantro adds a final herbal touch to the marinade, bridging the various flavors with fresh, clean notes. Accompanying the steak is a tangy red cabbage slaw; a crunchy, vibrant counterpart that contrasts the richness of the meat. This slaw combines thinly sliced red cabbage with fresh tomatoes and green onions, dressed in a homemade vinaigrette of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey, further enhanced with a touch of Dijon mustard and lime juice. This slaw is not just a side but a crucial component that brings brightness and acidity, balancing each taco with its crisp texture and refreshing sharpness. The assembly of these tacos is an art in itself. It begins with a drizzle of homemade cheese sauce – a rich blend of melted cheese, milk, and a hint of chili powder- adding a creamy decadence that melds the layers of flavors together beautifully. Then, a generous portion of succulent, seared flank steak is layered upon the cheese sauce, followed by a hearty scoop of zesty slaw. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro over the top adds a final note of freshness, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and adding another layer of flavor. Cast-Iron Seared Flank Steak Tacos are a feast for the senses. Each element, from the marinated and seared steak to the tangy slaw and velvety cheese sauce, works harmoniously to deliver a profoundly satisfying taco experience. Whether enjoyed in a casual setting or as part of a festive taco night, these tacos will impress and delight anyone lucky to try them. They are ideal for any gathering, promising to transport your taste buds with their bold flavors and dynamic textures, making every bite a celebration of what makes tacos so universally loved.
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  • Recipe Card
Prep time 24hrs
Cook time 30mins
Serves or Makes: 4

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Cast-Iron Seared Flank Steak

  • 3 pounds flank steak
  • 4 cloves of smashed garlic
  • 2 juiced limes
  • 1 juiced orange
  • 1 large quartered onion
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro

ingredients

For the Tangy Red Cabbage Slaw

  • 3 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onion
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

ingredients

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste salt and ground black pepper

ingredients

For the Tacos

  • 12 flour tortillas
  • 1 cut into wedges lime
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro

Method

  • Step 1

    Marinate the Steak: Combine lime juice, orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, ground black pepper, paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, and cilantro. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or dish, pour the marinade over it, add the orange rinds, lime rinds, garlic, and onion, and refrigerate it overnight.

  • Step 2

    Prepare the Red Cabbage Slaw: Toss red cabbage, tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions in a large bowl. Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, lime juice, salt, and ground pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  • Step 3

    Sear the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, and pat it dry with paper towels (to ensure proper searing). Let it rest outside the fridge for 30 minutes to come to room temperature. Once at room temperature, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking, and then slice it against the grain into thin strips.

  • Step 4

    Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in the flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually add 1 cup of milk, stirring until thickened. Then, lower the heat and blend in the shredded cheese and paprika until smooth. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness with additional milk if necessary.

  • Step 5

    Warm the Tortillas: Heat each tortilla in a dry skillet or directly over a flame until warm and pliable.

  • Step 6

    Assemble the Tacos: Lay warm tortillas on a serving plate, drizzle with creamy cheese sauce, add slices of the seared flank steak, top generously with tangy red cabbage slaw, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrus kick.

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