Lupe Tortilla’s Beef Fajita recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex right to our kitchen. Known for its bold spices and tender, juicy beef, this dish perfectly captures the essence of a classic fajita that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether we’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients
To bring the authentic Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita experience to our table, we focus on fresh, bold ingredients that highlight the dish’s vibrant Tex-Mex roots. Below are the essential components categorized for easy preparation.
Beef and Marinade Ingredients
For tender, flavorful beef, we select quality cuts and prepare a marinade that infuses every bite with rich, smoky goodness.
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
Vegetables and Fajita Fillings
Crisp, colorful vegetables add texture and balance to our beef fajitas, creating a harmonious plate.
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
Seasonings and Spices
These bold spices deliver the classic Tex-Mex flavor profile characteristic of Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas.
| Seasoning | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Sides and Garnishes
To complete our fajita feast, we select sides and garnishes that complement the main flavors and add freshness.
- Flour tortillas, warmed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures consistent cooking results and makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet:
We use a cast iron skillet to achieve that ideal sear on the flank steak and to caramelize the bell peppers and onions properly. Its excellent heat retention helps develop bold flavors crucial to the fajita’s signature taste.
- Mixing Bowls:
At least two bowls are needed — one for marinating the beef and another for tossing the vegetables with seasoning and oil. Choose bowls large enough to evenly coat the ingredients.
- Tongs:
Use sturdy tongs to flip the steak and vegetables safely while cooking. They offer control without piercing the meat, preserving juices and tenderness.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife:
Precise slicing of the flank steak against the grain and cutting vegetables into even strips helps ensure uniform cooking and enhances presentation.
- Cutting Board:
A stable cutting board is essential for safe and efficient slicing. Choose one that is easy to clean and has a non-slip surface.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups:
Accurate measurement of spices, citrus juices, and oils guarantees the perfect balance of flavors in the marinade and seasoning mix.
- Serving Platter or Warmed Tortilla Warmer:
Present fajitas hot and fresh by using a warmed serving platter or tortilla warmer to keep everything ready-to-eat.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Searing steak and sautéing vegetables |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and seasoning |
| Tongs | Safely turning steak and veggies |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Even slicing of meat and vegetables |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Precise measurement of ingredients |
| Serving Platter/Warmth Holder | Keeping fajitas warm and ready to serve |
By having these tools on hand, we set ourselves up for success in creating the authentic and delicious Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas that everyone will love.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas, careful preparation ensures vibrant flavors and perfect textures. Let’s break down the essential steps for prepping the beef, slicing the vegetables, and making the marinade to maximize the dish’s authentic Tex-Mex taste.
Preparing the Beef
Start with 1.5 to 2 pounds of flank steak, the preferred cut for its flavor and tenderness when sliced thin across the grain. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a better sear. Trim off any visible fat or silver skin to prevent toughness.
Important: Slice the flank steak against the grain after cooking to keep the beef tender. For now, leave it whole to marinate and cook evenly.
Slicing the Vegetables
Use fresh vegetables to brighten the dish. We need:
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one green for color contrast)
- 1 large yellow onion
- Optional 1 jalapeño for heat (remove seeds for milder spice)
Slice the bell peppers into thin, even strips about ¼ inch wide to match the beef’s size. Cut the onion similarly in thin wedges that will caramelize quickly and blend seamlessly with the meat. If using jalapeño, slice thin rings or dice finely depending on your heat preference.
Making the Marinade
The marinade is the heart of the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe, designed to infuse bold flavor and tenderize the meat. We combine citrus, umami, and spices for that classic Tex-Mex profile.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lime juice | ½ cup | Adds bright acidity |
| Fresh orange juice | ¼ cup | Balances with natural sweetness |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup | Helps coat and tenderize beef |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves | Use fresh for pungency |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adds depth and umami |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | Enhances savory flavors |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon | Key Tex-Mex spice |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Earthy warmth |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky aroma |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | Balances all flavors |
| Cayenne pepper | ⅛ teaspoon | Optional heat |
How to prepare the marinade:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together all liquid ingredients: lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, Worcestershire, and soy sauce.
- Add minced garlic, then whisk in all dried spices and salt until fully combined.
- Place the prepared flank steak into a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, ensuring complete coverage.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour up to 4 hours for best flavor infusion and tenderization.
“A well-marinated flank steak is the secret behind tender juicy fajitas with authentic flavor.”
This prep work sets the stage for a perfectly balanced and delicious Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe.
Marinating the Beef
To bring out the authentic Tex-Mex flavor in our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe we begin with a robust marinating process. This step is essential for tenderizing the flank steak while infusing it with a vibrant blend of spices and citrus notes.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lime juice | ¼ cup | Adds bright acidity and tenderizes |
| Fresh orange juice | ¼ cup | Provides sweetness and depth |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Carries flavors and promotes browning |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves | Aromatic pungency |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds umami and complexity |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | Enhances savory notes |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon | Classic Tex-Mex spice warmth |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Earthy, smoky flavor |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle smokiness |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | Balances and amplifies flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Mild heat and depth |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Provides a spicy kick (optional) |
Mix the ingredients vigorously to combine the citrus juices with the oil and spices forming a smooth marinade.
Step 2: Coat the Flank Steak
- Trim excess fat from the flank steak for even marinating.
- Place the steak into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak ensuring even coverage on all surfaces.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly.
Step 3: Let the Flavors Infuse
“Marinating is the key to achieving that tender juicy steak bursting with Tex-Mex zest.“
- Refrigerate the steak for at least 2 hours, ideally 4 to 6 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
- Turn or flip the steak occasionally to redistribute the marinade.
Step 4: Bring to Room Temperature Before Cooking
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking.
- This helps it cook evenly and sear properly.
By following these marinating steps carefully we guarantee the core of our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe is seasoned to perfection delivering moist tender meat with bold layered flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Mastering the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe relies on precise steps for cooking the beef, sautéing the vegetables, and warming the tortillas. Let’s dive into each phase to capture the authentic Tex-Mex flavors perfectly.
Cooking the Beef
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to smoke slightly.
- Remove the flank steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to promote an even sear.
- Lightly oil the skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Place the steak in the hot skillet. Do not move it for about 4 to 5 minutes to create a caramelized crust.
- Flip the steak and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. For medium-rare aim for 130°F internal temperature.
- Remove the steak and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for tender results.
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions along with optional jalapeño for heat.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, salt, and black pepper for flavor enhancement.
- Stir frequently and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still retain some crunch.
- Remove from heat and keep warm with a lid.
Warming the Tortillas
- Preheat a clean cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place each flour tortilla flat on the pan for 20 to 30 seconds per side.
- Wrap warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel or a tortilla warmer to maintain softness and heat.
- Serve immediately along with steak, vegetables, and garnishes like sour cream, avocado, cilantro, cheese, and lime wedges.
| Step | Temp/Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Steak | Medium-high, 4-5 min/side | Rest 10 min, slice against grain |
| Sautéing Vegetables | Medium-high, 6-8 min | Add spices during sautéing |
| Warming Tortillas | Medium, 20-30 sec/side | Keep warm wrapped in towel |
Assembling the Beef Fajitas
Once the flank steak and vegetables are cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas for a vibrant Tex-Mex experience. Follow these step-by-step instructions to layer flavors and textures beautifully.
- Warm the Tortillas Thoroughly
Use a clean pan or a tortilla warmer to warm your flour tortillas until soft and pliable. This step is essential to prevent tearing and to allow the tortillas to stretch around the fajita fillings effortlessly.
- Slice the Flank Steak Against the Grain
After resting the steak for 5-10 minutes, slice it thinly against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and juicy. Thin, diagonal slices will maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Create a Bed of Sautéed Vegetables
Spoon a generous amount of the sautéed bell peppers and onions onto the center of each tortilla. The vibrant colors and slight crunch add both appeal and texture.
- Layer the Beef Slices
Arrange the sliced flank steak over the vegetables. Let the natural juices mingle with the peppers and onions, enhancing every bite with savory richness.
- Add Fresh and Creamy Toppings
Garnish with fresh cilantro, cool sour cream, creamy avocado slices, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. These toppings balance the bold spices with freshness and creaminess.
- Finish with a Squeeze of Lime
Always offer lime wedges on the side and squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled fajitas just before eating for a zesty brightness that elevates every flavor.
Beef Fajita Assembly Checklist
| Step | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Tortilla warming | Soft and pliable |
| Steak slicing | Thin, against the grain |
| Vegetable layer | Bell peppers and onions, warm |
| Beef placement | Juicy steak slices, atop vegetables |
| Toppings | Cilantro, sour cream, avocado, cheese |
| Final touch | Fresh lime juice squeeze |
By carefully layering the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita components, we make sure every bite bursts with vibrant flavor, perfect texture, and mouthwatering aroma.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe, serving it with carefully chosen sides and garnishes elevates the experience. Here are our top recommendations to create a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Warm Tortillas: The Essential Base
- Warm flour tortillas on a skillet or in a tortilla warmer until soft and pliable. This helps them hold the juicy beef and sautéed vegetables without tearing.
- For added flavor, lightly brush tortillas with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder before warming.
Classic Toppings That Compliment Every Bite
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the rich beef flavor.
- Sour cream: Balances the spices with creamy coolness.
- Sliced avocado or guacamole: Offers a smooth and buttery texture.
- Shredded cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for that gooey melt.
- Lime wedges: An indispensable garnish; a fresh squeeze brightens and accentuates the fajita’s bold seasoning.
Side Dishes That Complete the Feast
Pairing the fajitas with traditional Tex-Mex sides rounds out the meal perfectly:
| Side Dish | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices | Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro |
| Refried Beans | Creamy and rich pinto or black beans mashed and seasoned | Top with crumbled queso fresco |
| Grilled Corn | Corn on the cob brushed with butter, chili powder, and lime juice | Serve on the side or slice off the cob as a salad |
| Fresh Salsa | Pico de gallo or roasted tomato salsa | Offer in bowls for extra dipping |
Build Your Fajita the Right Way
- Lay a warmed tortilla flat.
- Spoon a generous layer of sautéed peppers and onions.
- Add thin slices of tender marinated flank steak.
- Sprinkle cheese if desired.
- Top with sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for that zesty kick.
Beverage Pairings to Energize the Meal
- A cold Mexican lager or light beer complements the spices perfectly.
- For non-alcoholic options, fresh Hibiscus iced tea or a traditional Agua fresca brightens the palate.
“Serving is about enhancing every element of our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas — soft tortillas, tender steak, colorful veggies, and bold garnishes. Together they create a fiesta of flavors in every bite.”
By combining these serving suggestions we ensure our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe shines on your table ready for sharing and savoring.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe with minimal effort on busy days, we recommend these make-ahead and storage strategies that preserve the dish’s signature bold flavors and tender texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Marinate the beef in advance. Prepare the marinade and soak the flank steak for 4 to 6 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator to maximize flavor infusion and tenderness.
- Chop the vegetables ahead. Slice bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Mix the fajita seasoning blend. Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper in one container for quick seasoning.
“Marinating the beef overnight creates deeper flavor profiles and a juicy steak every time.”
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated flank steak | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours before cooking | Ensure steak is fully submerged in marinade |
| Cooked beef fajita | Airtight container in fridge | 3 to 4 days | Slice after resting, store separately from vegetables |
| Sautéed vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 3 days | Cool completely before refrigerating |
| Tortillas | Wrapped in foil or plastic | 2 to 3 days at room temperature or fridge | Warm before serving for best texture |
Reheating Tips
- Beef: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep meat moist.
- Vegetables: Warm in the same skillet for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through, preserving their slight crunch.
- Tortillas: Wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or warm individually in a hot skillet.
Freezing Options
If you plan on freezing the components, follow these guidelines:
- Cooked beef and veggies: Cool completely. Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, remove excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tortillas: Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
| Freezing Storage Recommendations | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked beef and sautéed vegetables | Up to 3 months | Freeze in portions for easy meal prep |
| Flour tortillas | Up to 3 months | Avoid refreezing once thawed |
“Proper storage protects the fajita’s authentic Tex-Mex taste and texture, allowing us to enjoy the dish anytime.”
By strategizing make-ahead work and proper storage techniques, we guarantee your Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe stays fresh and flavorful throughout the week.
Conclusion
Bringing together bold spices tender beef and fresh vibrant vegetables makes this Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe a standout choice for any occasion. With simple prep and straightforward cooking steps we can enjoy authentic Tex-Mex flavors right at home.
The flexibility to prepare components ahead and customize toppings means these fajitas fit perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing taste. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering these fajitas deliver consistently satisfying results.
By following the tips and techniques shared we’re set to create a flavorful memorable meal that everyone will love. Let’s fire up the skillet and savor the deliciousness of homemade beef fajitas anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lupe Tortilla’s Beef Fajita recipe unique?
Lupe Tortilla’s Beef Fajita recipe stands out for its bold Tex-Mex flavors, a well-balanced marinade with citrus and spices, and tender flank steak. The use of fresh vegetables and classic seasonings creates an authentic and vibrant fajita experience.
How long should I marinate the flank steak for best results?
For the best tenderness and flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 2 hours. Ideally, marinate it for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the marinade to deeply penetrate the meat.
What ingredients are essential for the marinade?
The key marinade ingredients include fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper.
What equipment do I need to make these beef fajitas?
Essential equipment includes a cast iron skillet for searing, mixing bowls for marinating, sturdy tongs for flipping, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for chopping, measuring spoons and cups, and a tortilla warmer or serving platter.
How should I cook the flank steak for fajitas?
Preheat a cast iron skillet, pat the steak dry, then sear it for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
What vegetables should I use for Lupe Tortilla’s fajitas?
Use colorful bell peppers and onions as the main vegetables. You can add jalapeños if you want extra heat. Slice them evenly to cook perfectly.
How do I assemble the beef fajitas?
Warm the flour tortillas first, create a bed of sautéed veggies, add thinly sliced flank steak, then top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
What are good side dishes to serve with these fajitas?
Traditional Tex-Mex sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled corn, and fresh salsa pair perfectly. Cold Mexican lager or hibiscus iced tea are great beverage options.
Can I prepare these fajitas in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the beef and chop vegetables ahead of time. Store marinated beef, cooked steak, and sautéed veggies properly in the fridge or freezer for easy meal prep.
How do I reheat fajitas without drying them out?
Reheat steak and vegetables gently in a skillet with a little oil or cover them in foil in the oven. Warm tortillas separately to keep them soft and fresh.