Steak Picado: A Bold and Flavorful Mexican Classic

Steak picado, which translates roughly to "minced or chopped steak," is a traditional Mexican dish known for its savory and slightly spicy flavor. It typically features thinly sliced or cubed steak cooked in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The dish is often seasoned with garlic, cumin, chili powder, and other spices, creating a robust and deeply satisfying flavor.

Whether served over rice, wrapped in warm tortillas, or paired with beans, picado steak is a versatile dish that adapts easily to personal preferences. It's the ultimate example of comfort food that's both simple and sophisticated.

The History of Steak Picado

While the origins of steak picado are hard to pinpoint, its components highlight the fusion of indigenous Mexican ingredients with European influences. The use of beef became more prominent after the Spanish introduced cattle to the Americas.

Tomatoes, peppers, and spices have long been staples in Mexican cooking, making this dish a natural evolution of the country's culinary traditions.Steak picado is not just a dish; it reflects Mexican home-cooking culture. Families often prepare it for gatherings, using recipes passed down through generations. Its adaptability to different tastes and ingredient availability has made it a favorite in Mexican households and beyond.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of steak picado lies in its simplicity. Here are the primary ingredients you'll need to make this dish:

Steak

1. Cut: Skirt steak, flank steak, or sirloin are popular choices due to their tenderness and flavor. The meat is typically sliced thin or cubed for quick cooking.
2. Preparation: Marinating the steak in lime juice, garlic, and spices enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Vegetables

1. Bell Peppers: These add sweetness and color to the dish.
2. Onions: Essential for a rich, aromatic base.
3. Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they form the backbone of the sauce.
4. Jalapeños or Serranos: Adjust based on your heat tolerance for a spicy kick.

Spices and Aromatics

1. Garlic: Freshly minced for depth of flavor.
2. Cumin and Chili Powder: Add earthiness and warmth.
3. Oregano: A touch of herbal brightness.
4. Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional Additions

1. Potatoes: Diced potatoes can make the dish heartier.
2. Carrots or Zucchini: These are excellent for added nutrition and texture.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Steak: Thinly slice or cube the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Mince the garlic and slice any additional vegetables you plan to include.
3. Marinate the Meat (Optional): Combine lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder in a bowl. Toss the steak in the marinade and rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil.
2. Sear the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
3. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add more oil, if necessary, in the same skillet and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the bell peppers, jalapeños, and any additional vegetables. Cook until slightly softened.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they form a sauce-like consistency. If using canned tomatoes, include the juices for extra flavor.
2. Add spices such as cumin, chili powder, and oregano—season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the seared steak to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce and vegetables.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the steak picado hot over a bed of rice, with warm tortillas on the side, or alongside refried beans.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime squeeze for an added flavor burst.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the most vibrant flavor, use fresh tomatoes and peppers. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Steak: Searing the steak first locks in its juices. When simmering, cook just enough to meld the flavors without drying the meat.
3. Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeños to suit your spice tolerance. Remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers if you prefer a milder dish.
4. Experiment with Add-ins: Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to create unique variations. Potatoes can also be included for a heartier meal.
5. Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the steak in advance to save time during cooking.
6. Deglaze the Pan: After searing the steak, use a splash of chicken broth or water to scrape up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Variations

1. Chicken Picado

   Swap the steak for chicken breast or thighs. The cooking process remains unchanged, but the simmering time must be adjusted to ensure the chicken is cooked.

2. Vegetarian Picado

   You can replace the steak with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or tofu. Chickpeas or black beans can also provide a protein-rich alternative.

3. Seafood Picado

   For a lighter version of the dish, use shrimp or a firm fish like cod. Add the seafood during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Pairing Suggestions

1. Sides

   • Rice: Mexican-style rice or plain white rice.
   • Beans: Refried or black beans.
   • Salad: A simple salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the dish beautifully.

2. Drinks

   Agua fresca, horchata, or a refreshing limeade are excellent non-alcoholic options.

3. Toppings

   Fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream add the perfect finishing touch.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to your favorite Butcher Shop. We carry various meat cuts that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.