Skirt Steak For Fajitas Oven Recipe: A Comprehensive Guide

To prepare skirt steak for fajitas, start by marinating the steak for at least 2-3 hours or up to overnight. The marinade will not only add flavor to the meat but also help to tenderize the tough fibers. For this recipe, we recommend using a marinade that includes lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl and pour it over the steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, make sure to remove the air before sealing it.

Tips for Cooking Skirt Steak in the Oven

Cooking skirt steak in the oven is a great alternative to grilling, especially if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or a grill pan. The oven method is also ideal for cooking larger cuts of meat, which can be difficult to cook evenly on a grill. Here are some important tips to ensure your skirt steak turns out perfectly cooked:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) before cooking.

• Remove the steak from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

• While the oven is heating up, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade, which can cause smoking in the oven.

• Place the steak on a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet and season it with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

• Roast the steak in the oven for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) on a meat thermometer.

• Let the steak rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe is for fajitas, skirt steak can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Here are some tasty variations to try:

• Skirt steak tacos: Simply wrap the steak in a warm tortilla and top it with your favorite taco toppings, such as guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.

• Skirt steak salads: Slice the steak thinly and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.

• Skirt steak sandwiches: Layer the steak on a crusty baguette or ciabatta bread and add cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

For serving fajitas, heat up some tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave and assemble the fajita ingredients on the table. Let your guests enjoy making their own fajitas by filling each tortilla with strips of steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and any additional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Checking the Doneness of Skirt Steak

It is essential to check the doneness of the skirt steak to ensure that it is cooked to your liking. Here are some methods for checking the doneness:

• Meat thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. For medium-rare, remove the steak from the oven when the temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). For medium, let the steak cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C), and for well-done, let it cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).

• Touch test: Press the steak with your finger to gauge the doneness. A medium-rare steak should feel soft and slightly springy, while a well-done steak should feel firm and springy.

• Visual inspection: Cut into the thickest part of the steak with a knife and check its color. A medium-rare steak should be pink in the middle, while a well-done steak should be brown throughout.

Overcooking and Undercooking

Overcooking or undercooking skirt steak can lead to a tough and dry texture and cause all the marinating and seasoning to go to waste. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking: Cooking skirt steak for too long or at too high of a temperature can cause it to become dry and tough. Make sure to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature and check the doneness using a meat thermometer.

• Undercooking: Undercooked skirt steak can be tough and chewy and pose a risk of foodborne illness. Make sure to cook the steak to a recommended internal temperature.

Recipe for Skirt Steak for Fajitas Oven

Here is the recipe for skirt steak for fajitas oven that yields delicious and juicy steak:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs. skirt steak

• Juice of 2 limes

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 tsp. cumin

• 1 tsp. chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sliced bell peppers and onions for serving

• Warm tortillas and additional toppings for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Place the steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it.

3. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the steak marinate for at least 2-3 hours or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).

5. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.

6. Place the steak on a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet and season it with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

7. Roast the steak in the oven for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) on a meat thermometer.

8. Let the steak rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.

9. Serve the steak with sautéed sliced bell peppers and onions, warm tortillas, and any additional toppings of your choice.

Conclusion

Skirt steak for fajitas in the oven is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish without an outdoor grill. With the right marinade and cooking technique, you can create a tender and flavorful steak that will impress your family and friends. Remember to follow our tips for selecting, cleaning, preparing, and cooking skirt steak as well as checking the doneness to avoid any mishaps. With this recipe, you can create a tasty and satisfying meal that will transport you to the flavors of Mexico.

Sources

FAQS On Skirt Steak For Fajitas Oven Recipe

What Is Skirt Steak?

Skirt steak is a long, flat cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow. It is known for its rich flavor and slightly chewy texture. Skirt steak is commonly used in Mexican and Latin American cuisine, particularly for dishes like fajitas.

How Can I Marinate Skirt Steak For Fajitas?

Marinating skirt steak is an essential step to infuse it with flavors and help tenderize the meat. To marinate skirt steak for fajitas, you can combine ingredients like lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, onion, cumin, and chili powder in a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Coat the skirt steak with the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Can I Cook Skirt Steak For Fajitas In The Oven?

Yes, you can cook skirt steak for fajitas in the oven. Preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C), and place the marinated skirt steak on a baking sheet or roasting pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness. It is important to closely monitor the steak’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

How Do I Slice Skirt Steak For Fajitas?

For the best results, slice skirt steak against the grain. Identify the direction of the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them. This technique helps to break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender. To slice skirt steak for fajitas, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking, then use a sharp knife to cut thin slices across the grain, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick pieces.

What Are Some Suggested Toppings Or Accompaniments For Skirt Steak Fajitas?

Skirt steak fajitas are often served with an array of flavorful toppings and accompaniments. Traditionally, fajitas are garnished with sautéed bell peppers and onions, as well as fresh toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes. You can also add shredded cheese, sliced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors. Serve the fajitas with warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.