Richly Flavored Spanish-Inspired Nosh: Crunchy Skirt Steak with Smoky Romesco Sauce

Indulge your taste buds with this exquisite recipe that combines the robust flavors of crunchy skirt steak paired with a smoky romesco sauce. This delightful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, especially when served alongside a bold Cabernet. The combination of textures and flavors will transport you to the sun-drenched regions of Spain, making every bite a celebration.

Ingredients

For the Skirt Steak

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Smoky Romesco Sauce

• 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
• 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
• 2 cloves garlic, roasted
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste

To Serve

• A glass of bold Cabernet Sauvignon

Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Smoky Romesco Sauce

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, toasted almonds, roasted garlic, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Incorporate Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.

Cooking the Skirt Steak

1. Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the skirt steak, ensuring it’s well-coated in the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill or Skillet: Heat a grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is achieved. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Slice and Serve: Slice the skirt steak against the grain into thin strips. Arrange it on a platter, drizzle with the smoky romesco sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Cooking Tips

Selecting Ingredients

• Skirt Steak: Look for well-marbled skirt steak for maximum flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, flank steak can be a suitable substitute.
• Romesco Sauce: Homemade roasted red peppers can elevate your sauce. Simply roast fresh peppers until charred, peel, and use as indicated in the recipe.

Cooking Techniques

• Resting the Meat: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring a tender bite.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper in the romesco sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Richly Flavored Spanish-Inspired Nosh with a glass of bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s deep fruit flavors and tannins complement the savory notes of the steak and the smoky nuances of the romesco sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad topped with lemon vinaigrette.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the skirt steak with grilled portobello mushrooms, marinated in the same spices, for a flavorful meat-free dish.
• Nut-Free Romesco: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version of the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This recipe not only celebrates the flavors of Spain but also invites you to explore your culinary creativity. The crunchy skirt steak and smoky romesco sauce are a match made in heaven, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

For those looking to expand their culinary skills, consider exploring more about Spanish cuisine in articles like A Guide to Spanish Tapas or Exploring Wine Pairings.

Embrace the flavors, share this recipe with friends, and don’t hesitate to experiment in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!