Flaming Fajitas

Flaming Fajitas Recipe from Mexico: Steak, Lime, Garlic, and Onions

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Flaming Fajitas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that is not only delicious but also entertaining to prepare. The sizzling sound and fiery display of flames when the brandy is ignited add an element of excitement to the dining experience. This dish is perfect for a fun and interactive meal with family and friends.

History

Fajitas have a long history that dates back to the ranches of West Texas, where Mexican cowboys known as vaqueros would grill skirt steak over an open flame. The term "fajita" actually comes from the Spanish word "faja," which means belt or sash, referring to the cut of meat used in the dish. Over time, fajitas have evolved to include a variety of ingredients and flavors, with the flaming presentation becoming a popular way to serve this dish in restaurants.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) very lean skirt or bottom-round steak, cut 0.25 inch thick and trimmed of visible fat
1 lime
4 large garlic cloves, pressed through a garlic press
1 to 2 tsp pequin quebrado or crushed red pepper flakes
2 tsp vegetable oil
0.25 cup brandy
4 to 6 (12 inches) flour tortillas
4 to 6 romaine lettuce leaves, cut crosswise into 1 inch strips
salsa, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, and guacamole, for serving with the fajitas, if desired

How to prepare

Cut the steak into 4 to 6 equal-size rectangles.
Pound the steak pieces to flatten them as thin as possible.
Cut the lime in half and squeeze the juice over both sides of each piece of steak.
Stack the steaks on a plate and let them stand for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 250°F (121°C).
Place a large, well-seasoned, cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot (it should smoke).
At the same time, stack the tortillas, wrap them in foil, and place them in the oven along with 4 to 6 dinner plates.
Add the oil to the skillet and quickly sear the meat on both sides.
Add the brandy to the hot skillet.
Flame the meat by touching the brandy with a lighted match and let the flames burn down. (Keep a large piece of foil or a skillet lid nearby in case the flames rise too high. Just cover them until they subside.)
Top the warm tortillas with lettuce and pieces of steak.
Garnish with salsa, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and guacamole, if desired.
To serve, roll each tortilla around the mixture.

Variations

Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of steak for a different protein option.
Add bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the steak thin to ensure quick and even cooking.

- Preheat the skillet until it is very hot to get a nice sear on the meat.

- Be cautious when igniting the brandy to avoid any accidents. Keep a lid or foil nearby to smother the flames if they get too high.

- Serve the fajitas immediately after assembling to enjoy them at their best.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Flaming Fajitas with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and your favorite toppings for a complete and delicious meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Flaming Fajitas is to sear the meat quickly over high heat and ignite the brandy for a dramatic presentation. Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find skirt or bottom-fat steak, you can use flank steak or sirloin as a substitute. You can also use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the steak ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. You can also prepare the toppings and garnishes in advance to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Flaming Fajitas on a sizzling hot skillet for a dramatic presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a colorful and appetizing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Flaming Fajitas pair well with a cold beer, margarita, or a refreshing glass of iced tea. You can also serve them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Flaming Fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fajitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Flaming Fajitas contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Flaming Fajitas contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Flaming Fajitas contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Flaming Fajitas contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Flaming Fajitas are a good source of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (tortillas) and may contain soy (vegetable oil). It can be made gluten-free by using corn tortillas.

Summary

Flaming Fajitas are a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Flaming Fajitas are a flavorful and exciting dish that is perfect for entertaining or a fun family dinner. With a sizzling presentation and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the sizzle and spice of Flaming Fajitas for your next meal!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm summer day in Mexico, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria. She had invited me over for dinner, and I could smell the delicious aromas wafting through the air as soon as I stepped foot into her kitchen.

Maria was a fantastic cook and always knew how to whip up the most mouth-watering dishes. But on this particular night, she was making something I had never seen before - Flaming Fajitas. As she explained the recipe to me, I was mesmerized by the way she combined fresh ingredients and spices to create a sizzling, fiery dish that would leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

As I watched Maria work her magic in the kitchen, I knew I had to learn how to make Flaming Fajitas for myself. So, I asked her if she would be willing to teach me her secret recipe. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed and we spent the rest of the evening cooking and laughing together.

Maria showed me how to marinate the meat in a special blend of spices and citrus juices, how to char the peppers and onions to perfection, and how to flambe the dish with a splash of tequila for that extra kick. As the flames leapt up, I could feel the heat of the fire on my face and knew that this was a recipe that would always hold a special place in my heart.

After that night, I made Flaming Fajitas for every special occasion. Birthdays, holidays, family gatherings - you name it, and I would bring out the sizzling skillet to impress my guests with this fiery dish. Each time I cooked it, I could still hear Maria's voice guiding me through the steps, her laughter echoing in my ears as I created the perfect meal.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, always experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to make my Flaming Fajitas even more delicious. I added a splash of lime here, a sprinkle of cilantro there, until I had perfected the recipe to my own taste.

But no matter how many times I made Flaming Fajitas, nothing could compare to that first time I saw Maria cook them. Her passion for food, her love for cooking, and her generous spirit had inspired me to become the cook I am today.

And so, whenever I make Flaming Fajitas now, I always think of Maria and that warm summer night in Mexico. I can almost hear her laughter, smell the tantalizing aromas, and feel the heat of the flames as they dance across the skillet.

This recipe may have started with Maria, but it has become a part of me. It is a dish that brings people together, creates memories, and satisfies the soul. And I am grateful to have learned it from such a wonderful friend who taught me not just how to cook, but how to love and appreciate the art of creating something truly special.