The Steak Fajita Taco from Taco Cabana features tender, marinated grilled steak, sauteed bell peppers, and onions nestled in a warm, soft corn tortilla, delivering a flavorful and satisfying blend of smoky, savory, and fresh textures.
Equipments
- Grill
- Tongs
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Serving spoon
- Tortilla warmer or steamer
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 large yellow onion
- 8 corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Marinating the flank steak in a mixture of lime juice, soy sauce, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is essential for tenderizing and infusing it with rich flavors. Fresh bell peppers and onions should be sauteed until slightly caramelized to enhance their natural sweetness, complementing the smoky steak. Use soft corn tortillas warmed in a tortilla warmer or steamer to maintain their pliability and prevent tearing when assembling tacos. Measuring ingredients precisely ensures a balanced taste that mirrors the authentic Steak Fajita Taco from Taco Cabana. Your copycat menu will achieve the same satisfying blend of smoky, savory, and fresh textures with these key preparation tips.
Instructions
- Trim and slice flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
- In a mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, lime juice, soy sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add steak strips to the bowl, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
- Slice bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill marinated steak strips for 2–3 minutes per side until cooked to desired doneness; remove from grill and set aside.
- While grilling steak, heat sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan, then add sliced bell peppers and onions.
- Sauté vegetables for 4–5 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
- Warm corn tortillas in a tortilla warmer or steamer, or wrap in foil and heat on the grill.
- Assemble tacos by placing steak, sautéed bell peppers, and onions into each tortilla.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.
Substitution
The Steak Fajita Taco from Taco Cabana copycat menu offers a perfect balance of marinated grilled steak and sauteed bell peppers and onions wrapped in warm corn tortillas. If flank steak is unavailable, skirt steak or sirloin can be used as suitable alternatives without compromising flavor. When grilling is not an option, cooking the steak and vegetables in a saute pan or skillet provides a similar smoky and tender result. Corn tortillas may crack if warmed too long; using a tortilla warmer or lightly steaming them helps maintain softness and flexibility. Your choice of fresh cilantro and lime wedges adds a bright, fresh finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Tips
Make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness in your Steak Fajita Tacos. Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes allows the soy sauce, lime juice, and spices to deeply flavor the meat. Use medium-high heat on your grill to quickly sear the steak strips while keeping them juicy. When sauteing the bell peppers and onions, avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve that perfect slight char and softness.
Nutritions
The Steak Fajita Taco from Taco Cabana offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Your steak provides a rich source of high-quality protein and iron, crucial for muscle repair and energy production. Bell peppers and onions add dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, promoting immune health and digestion. The corn tortillas contribute complex carbohydrates and are gluten-free, making this meal both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage
Store leftover Steak Fajita Taco components separately in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep cooked steak and sauteed vegetables refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, and store corn tortillas in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature or refrigerated if not used within a day. To reheat, warm steak and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat and heat tortillas in a tortilla warmer or oven before assembling your tacos.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, consider using skirt steak instead of flank steak for a slightly different texture and flavor profile that grills quickly and remains tender. You can swap the vegetable oil in the marinade with olive oil or avocado oil for a richer taste and added health benefits. Instead of sauteing the bell peppers and onions, try grilling them directly on the grill alongside the steak for enhanced smoky notes and caramelization. Your corn tortillas can also be replaced with flour tortillas or warmed on a cast-iron skillet for a slightly crispier base.
Allergies
The Steak Fajita Taco contains soy sauce, which is a common allergen and can cause reactions in individuals with soy allergies. Corn tortillas may pose a risk for those with corn allergies, and bell peppers, onions, or cilantro could trigger sensitivities in some people with nightshade or herb allergies. Be sure to inform your server about any food allergies to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Steak Fajita Taco from Taco Cabana restaurant is loved for its tender, marinated steak grilled to perfection, combined with sizzling bell peppers and onions that create a flavorful, smoky taste. The use of fresh, authentic ingredients like hand-pressed tortillas and zesty seasonings enhances every bite, making it a standout on the menu. Creating your own copycat version allows you to customize spice levels and ingredients to match your taste preferences, offering a satisfying and budget-friendly alternative. Your homemade Steak Fajita Tacos can capture the delicious essence of Taco Cabana while providing a personal touch and fresh, made-from-scratch quality.