Chipotle Garlic Guajillo Steak Recipe
This Chipotle Garlic Guajillo Steak Recipe features tender flank steak marinated in a bold blend of guajillo chiles, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. Sear it to perfection for a smoky, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with tacos, rice, or roasted vegetables.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound 454 g flank steak, approximately 1 inch thick
- 4 dried guajillo chiles stems and seeds removed
- 6 cloves garlic peeled
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado or vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare the Guajillo Chiles
- Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo chiles, ensuring most seeds are discarded while leaving a few for additional flavor. If necessary, slice the chiles in half to remove the seeds more efficiently.
- In a small saucepan, submerge the chiles in water and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow them to simmer for 20 minutes, which will soften the chiles and enhance their flavor. Reserve 1 cup of the soaking liquid to be used in the marinade.
Prepare the Marinade
- In a blender, combine the softened guajillo chiles, reserved liquid, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Blend until a smooth consistency is achieved. The marinade should be slightly thick yet pourable.
Marinate the Steak
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Sear the Steak
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado or vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated steak.
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Continue cooking, flipping every 1-2 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F to 140°F (54°C to 60°C) for medium-rare doneness.
Rest and Slice
- Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes, which helps retain its juices and enhances tenderness.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for optimal texture and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the steak warm as a standalone dish or alongside warm tortillas, rice, roasted vegetables, or guacamole for a well-balanced meal.
Notes
This Chipotle Garlic Guajillo Steak Recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided that all seasonings and sauces used are certified gluten-free. To ensure complete gluten-free compliance:
- Confirm that avocado or vegetable oil has no cross-contamination.
- If serving with tortillas, choose certified gluten-free corn tortillas.
- Check the kosher salt or any pre-mixed seasoning for potential gluten additives.