Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb of carne seca (dried beef)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, soak the carne seca in water for 2-3 hours to rehydrate it. Drain and rinse the beef.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the rehydrated carne seca to the skillet and sprinkle with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is heated through.
5. Warm the flour tortillas in a separate skillet or in the microwave.
6. Serve the carne seca fajitas on the warm tortillas and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 2-3 hours for soaking the carne seca, 15 minutes for slicing the vegetables and mincing garlic
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for cooking the vegetables and beef
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Carne seca can be substituted with beef or chicken
- Bell peppers can be substituted with other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini
Variations:
- Add sliced jalapenos for a spicier version
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to rehydrate the carne seca before cooking to ensure it is tender and flavorful
- Use tongs to easily flip and stir the beef and vegetables in the skillet
- Serve with lime wedges for added flavor
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover carne seca fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, microwave the fajitas for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the fajitas on a large platter with the toppings arranged in separate bowls for a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor and color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Spanish rice and beans for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Spanish rice and beans
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Black bean and corn salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the beef is tough, it may not have been rehydrated long enough. Soak for an additional hour and try again.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the beef to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food History:
- Carne seca is a traditional Mexican method of preserving beef by drying it in the sun or air.
Flavor Profiles:
- The carne seca fajitas have a savory and slightly smoky flavor with a hint of spice from the chili powder and cumin.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing and delicious pairing.
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Region: Mexican