Steak Tacos with Cilantro-Radish Salsa

This chile pepper gets its name from its origin. In Spanish, serrano is an adjective meaning “from the mountains” which is where it originated-in the mountains of Hildalgo, Mexico. The serrano is normally about twice as hot as Jalapeno (about 10,000 to 15,000 Scoville units).It is the second most popular chile pepper in Mexico. This chile is used mostly for salsas but can also be used in soups, sauces, chili or stews.Try these as a hotter substitute for Jalapeno.

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Radishes make a crunchy salsa for these–or any other taco you’re serving this summer.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 pound skirt or flank steak
  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves with tender stems, divided
  • 4 radishes, trimmed, chopped
  • 2 spring onions or 4 scallions, white and pale-green parts only, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 serrano chile or jalapeño, seeds removed if desired, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 8 corn tortillas, warmed
  • 2 ounces queso fresco or Cotija cheese, crumbled

Preparation

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper and cook about 5 minutes per side for medium rare. Let steak rest 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, chop half of cilantro and toss with radishes, onions, chile, lime juice, and remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a medium bowl. Season radish salsa with salt and pepper.

Slice steak and serve on tortillas topped with radish salsa, queso fresco, and remaining cilantro.

 

From Bon Appetit, June 2014