Steak Gorditas: A Flavorful Mexican Street Food
Gorditas, meaning "little fat ones" in Spanish, are a beloved Mexican street food. These delightful pockets of corn dough are typically filled with a variety of savory ingredients, making them a versatile and satisfying meal. This recipe focuses on a classic combination: tender, flavorful steak. Let's dive into the world of steak gorditas!
Understanding Gorditas
Gorditas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering a delicious and portable way to enjoy various fillings. The corn dough, or masa harina, is the foundation of these treats. It's mixed with water to form a pliable dough that is then shaped and cooked. The result is a slightly thick, soft, and slightly chewy tortilla that perfectly complements the fillings.
Ingredients
For the Gorditas:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Steak Filling:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions
Preparing the Gorditas
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together masa harina, warm water, and salt until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Shape the Gorditas: Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
- Flatten and Cook: Place a dough ball between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently flatten it into a thick disc, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Peel off the plastic wrap and cook the gordita on a hot griddle or skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
Preparing the Steak Filling
- Cook the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook until browned on all sides.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Season: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Gorditas
- Slice the Gorditas: Cut each cooked gordita in half horizontally to create a pocket.
- Fill with Steak: Generously fill each gordita pocket with the prepared steak and vegetable mixture.
- Add Toppings: Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, and salsa.
Tips for Perfect Steak Gorditas
- For extra flavor, marinate the flank steak in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic before cooking.
- To prevent the gorditas from sticking to the griddle, lightly grease the cooking surface before cooking.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as shredded chicken, carnitas, or refried beans.
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the steak filling.
- Serve steak gorditas with a side of guacamole and chips for a complete meal.
Steak gorditas offer a delicious and satisfying taste of Mexico. With their crispy exterior and tender filling, they are a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. By following these simple steps and incorporating your favorite toppings, you can create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
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