Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion. Bursting with flavor, these tacos feature tender skirt steak, a smoky chipotle sauce, and a refreshing roasted cabbage slaw. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: The combination of chipotle sauce and roasted vegetables creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Serve these tacos as a main dish or as part of a taco bar for entertaining guests.
• Colorful presentation: The vibrant colors of the slaw and toppings make for an eye-catching plate.
• Customizable ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Sheet pan
• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention for searing the skirt steak perfectly.
• Sheet pan: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring they caramelize beautifully.
• Food processor: Makes blending the chipotle sauce effortless and results in a smooth texture.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw, gather the following ingredients:

For the Steak and Slaw

• 1 ½ lbs skirt steak
• 1 lb purple cabbage, cored + thinly sliced
• 1 large red pepper, halved + seeded
• 1 large poblano pepper, halved + seeded
• 1 red onion, cored + cut into ½” wedges
• olive oil
• kosher salt
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced

For the Tortillas and Toppings

• 12 tortillas, charred over an open flame
• 6 oz queso fresco, crumbled

For the Chipotle Sauce

• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tsp orange zest
• (7oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• ¾ cup neutral oil (such as safflower)

How to Make Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

1. Place the halved peppers and red onion wedges onto a sheet pan.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Arrange them cut-side down.
3. Roast for 35-40 minutes until tender.
4. On another sheet pan, toss the cabbage with olive oil and season with salt. Spread into an even layer.
5. Roast the cabbage for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.

Step 3: Prepare the Skirt Steak

1. Pat the skirt steak dry and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Chipotle Sauce

1. In a food processor, combine orange juice, orange zest, chipotle peppers (with adobo sauce), and honey.
2. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, stream in neutral oil.
4. Season with salt to taste and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Vegetables

1. Allow roasted vegetables to cool slightly.
2. Peel skins off the peppers; slice red pepper thinly and chop poblano pepper finely.
3. Roughly chop red onion and combine all in a mixing bowl along with green onions and ½ cup of chipotle sauce.

Step 6: Sear the Steak

1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat; add enough neutral oil to coat bottom.
2. Generously season skirt steak with salt.
3. Sear steak in batches for about 3-5 minutes per side until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Transfer steak to a cutting board; cover loosely with foil for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 7: Assemble Tacos

In each charred tortilla, place roasted slaw on the bottom followed by sliced steak, drizzle with chipotle sauce, and top with crumbled queso fresco.

Enjoy your flavorful Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw!

How to Serve Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Serving steak tacos with chipotle sauce and roasted cabbage slaw can be a delightful experience for family and friends. Here are some creative ways to elevate your serving experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the tacos for a fresh, herbal flavor.
• Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt – A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess to balance the spicy chipotle sauce.

Assembly Suggestions

• Layered Presentation – Stack your tacos on a colorful platter for an attractive display.
• Taco Bar Style – Set up a taco bar with all ingredients laid out, letting guests customize their own tacos.

Drinks Pairing

• Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca – A refreshing drink that complements the flavors of the tacos perfectly.
• Iced Tea with Mint – The slight sweetness of iced tea balances out the heat from the chipotle sauce.

How to Perfect Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Perfecting steak tacos requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t be shy with salt and pepper while seasoning your steak; it enhances the meat’s natural flavors.
• Resting Time is Key – Allow the steak to rest after cooking; this helps retain its juices for more tender bites.
• Quality Tortillas – Use fresh corn tortillas for an authentic taste; char them directly over flame for added flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level – If you prefer less heat, use fewer chipotle peppers in your sauce or mix in some creamy avocado.

Best Side Dishes for Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

Pairing side dishes with steak tacos adds variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this main dish beautifully.

1. Mexican Rice – A flavorful side that pairs well with tacos, often made with tomatoes and spices.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add richness and protein, making them a hearty accompaniment.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
4. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun appetizer option.
5. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole brings a cooling effect against the spicy taco flavors.
6. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad packed with beans, corn, and lime dressing is a nutritious choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial for juicy tacos. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Keep an eye on roasting times. Overcooked veggies become mushy and lose their vibrant flavor. Aim for tender yet crisp vegetables.

• Neglecting Flavor Seasoning: Season each component well. A pinch of salt can elevate the flavors in both the slaw and the steak, making your tacos truly delicious.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Bringing ingredients like steak and tortillas to room temperature before cooking helps achieve better texture and flavor in your tacos.

• Not Toasting Tortillas: Toasting tortillas adds a lovely char and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; warm them over an open flame for a smoky taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover steak tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep slaw separate to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Make sure sauce is well-contained to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place tacos on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat tacos on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes. Cover with a damp paper towel for moisture retention.

• Stovetop: Sear tacos in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes per side until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for steak tacos?

Skirt steak is ideal due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. It’s perfect for quick cooking methods like searing.

Can I make chipotle sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chipotle sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using.

How can I customize my roasted cabbage slaw?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or radishes, or even fruits like mango for sweetness. Adjust seasonings based on your taste!

What can I substitute if I don’t have queso fresco?

Try crumbled feta cheese or even creamy avocado slices if you’re looking for a dairy-free option while still achieving that creamy texture.

How do I make these tacos spicy?

To add more heat, include extra chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into your taco filling or top with sliced jalapeños before serving.

Final Thoughts

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Sauce & Roasted Cabbage Slaw are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that anyone can enjoy. The combination of juicy steak, smoky sauce, and crunchy slaw makes these tacos versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or additional spices!