Spanish Broiled Steak. Recipe

Spanish Broiled Steak Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
The tradition of cooking steak in Spain traces its roots back to the ancient times when grilling meat over an open fire was a common practice. This method not only provided a delicious smoky flavor to the meat but also allowed for a quick and efficient way of cooking. Over the years, Spanish cuisine has evolved, and the technique of broiling steak has become a favorite preparation method.

In Spain, broiling steak is often done using a technique called "a la parrilla," which involves grilling the meat over hot coals or a gas grill. The Spanish broiled steak is known for its simplicity and bold flavors, as it relies heavily on the quality of the meat and the use of various seasonings. The dish is typically served with traditional Spanish sides such as patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) or roasted vegetables.

Now let's dive into the recipe for Spanish Broiled Steak:

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
- Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your broiler to high heat. If you don't have a broiler, you can also use an outdoor grill or a grill pan on the stove.

2. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a paste.

3. Place the steak on a cutting board and score both sides with shallow cuts. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat better.

4. Spread the spice paste evenly over both sides of the steak, ensuring that every part is well coated. Let the steak marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Once the steak has marinated, place it on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil to catch any drippings. Make sure the surface is oiled or sprayed to prevent sticking.

6. Broil the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook it for around 4 minutes per side. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you prefer your steak more or less cooked.

7. Once the steak is done, remove it from the broiler and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.

8. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help to break down the muscle fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew.

9. Serve the Spanish broiled steak with lemon wedges on the side, which can be squeezed over the meat to add a refreshing citrusy flavor.

Additional Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the steak with patatas bravas, a classic Spanish tapas dish consisting of crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
- Add some grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, as a colorful and nutritious side dish.
- Accompany the meal with a glass of Spanish red wine, such as Tempranillo or Rioja, to complement the robust flavors of the broiled steak.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Argentinian Asado: This popular South American dish also showcases the art of grilling steak, often using various cuts of beef. It's typically served with chimichurri sauce, a tangy herb-based sauce that adds a burst of flavor.

2. Italian Bistecca alla Fiorentina: This Tuscan-style grilled steak is prepared with minimal seasoning to let the quality of the meat shine. It's traditionally served with a side of cannellini beans and Tuscan bread.

3. American BBQ Ribeye: The American barbecue tradition includes grilling ribeye steaks over low, slow heat, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat. It's often served with barbecue sauce, cornbread, and coleslaw.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Experiment with different seasonings and accompaniments to make the Spanish broiled steak truly your own. Enjoy this delicious and hearty dish inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain!

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