Bistec Ranchero
Bistec Ranchero with potatoes is a flavorful northern Mexican dish that combines tender beef with a zesty, spicy tomato-based sauce. It’s a hearty and satisfying dinner, perfect for any occasion.
Simmered in a bold ranchero sauce made with fresh tomatoes, jalapeños, and aromatic spices, this dish brings a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of beef and potatoes creates a fulfilling and comforting meal.
With options to add extra vegetables, melt in cheese, or substitute pork or chicken, this versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with tortillas, rice, or a side of beans for a complete meal.
Bistec Ranchero Ingredients
The heart of Bistec Ranchero lies in its vibrant ranchero sauce, where ripe Roma tomatoes and fiery jalapeños mingle with the richness of garlic and onion, creating a robust and zesty base. Mexican oregano and cumin lend a warm, earthy depth to the sauce, enhancing every bite.
Tender, thinly sliced beef is seared to perfection, absorbing the flavors of garlic powder and paprika, which add a smoky, savory dimension. The potatoes, crisped in oil, soak up the spicy sauce, making each bite hearty and comforting.
This dish’s versatility shines through, as the addition of cheese, extra vegetables, or protein alternatives like pork or chicken enriches the experience, offering a customizable and satisfying meal.
Bistec Ranchero with Potatoes: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Char the Vegetables for Extra Flavor: To deepen the flavors of the ranchero sauce, consider charring the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic under the broiler before blending. This will add a smoky richness to the sauce, elevating the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The jalapeño is a key ingredient in giving the ranchero sauce its signature kick, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount used. If you prefer a milder version, opt for a smaller jalapeño or remove the seeds before blending. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add an extra jalapeño.
- Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the bistec ranchero rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the beef remains tender. It also helps redistribute the sauce and juices, making each bite more flavorful.
What to Serve with Bistec Ranchero
- Warm Flour Tortillas: Soft, warm flour tortillas are the perfect accompaniment to Bistec Ranchero. Their mild flavor and chewy texture complement the spicy, savory beef and potatoes. Use them to scoop up the flavorful ranchero sauce, turning each bite into a satisfying experience.
- Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice adds a comforting, subtly seasoned balance to the bold flavors of the bistec ranchero. The mildness of the rice pairs well with the spiciness of the dish, and it soaks up the delicious sauce, making it a must-have on the side.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are another great choice to pair with Bistec Ranchero. The rich and velvety texture of the beans balances the spiciness of the dish while adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal. Top them with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra indulgence.
FAQ
- Can I use a different protein for this dish? Yes! While Bistec Ranchero is traditionally made with beef, you can substitute thinly sliced pork or chicken for a different flavor. Both options work well with the ranchero sauce and create a delicious alternative.
- How do I store leftovers? Once fully cooled, store your Bistec Ranchero in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just be sure to press out all air from the container to preserve the dish’s quality.
- Can I make this dish spicier? Absolutely! To increase the heat, add extra jalapeños or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the ranchero sauce. You can also use a hotter variety of chili if you prefer a more intense kick.
- Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Yes, you can definitely make this dish heartier by adding more vegetables. Try sautéing sliced onions, poblano peppers, or diced carrots along with the potatoes to add flavor, texture, and color to the dish.
Bistec Ranchero
This Bistec Ranchero, a northern Mexican classic, features tender beef and golden potatoes simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce that will satisfy your cravings for bold, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
- anchero Sauce:
- 4 large Roma tomatoes
- 1/4 to 1/2 small jalapeño seeded and stemmed
- ¼ small white onion
- 3 large garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon Mexican oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Beef:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 ½ large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 ½ pounds thinly sliced beef cut into 1/2″ strips
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by blending all of the sauce ingredients together until smooth. Set this aside while you prepare the remaining components of the dish.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced potatoes, spreading them out in a single layer. Allow them to cook for about 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a light brown color. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced beef. Sear the beef for 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring it is browned evenly. Once browned, season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine the flavors. Adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and pour in the prepared ranchero sauce. Stir to combine and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Storage: After cooling, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave for up to a minute or heat on the stove over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container, pressing out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Extra Flavor: For added depth, char the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic under the broiler before blending the ranchero sauce.
Additions: You may enhance the dish with additional vegetables like sliced onions, poblano peppers, and diced carrots sautéed with the potatoes.
Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of shredded cheese such as Chihuahua or Manchego in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Protein Variations: While traditionally made with beef, thinly sliced pork or chicken can be substituted in this dish.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave for up to a minute or heat on the stove over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container, pressing out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Extra Flavor: For added depth, char the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic under the broiler before blending the ranchero sauce.
Additions: You may enhance the dish with additional vegetables like sliced onions, poblano peppers, and diced carrots sautéed with the potatoes.
Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of shredded cheese such as Chihuahua or Manchego in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Protein Variations: While traditionally made with beef, thinly sliced pork or chicken can be substituted in this dish.
