This Puerto Rican Steak and Onions dish is full of flavor! Tender beef is cooked with sweet, caramelized onions and spices that make your mouth water. A true delight for your taste buds!
It’s so easy to whip up for dinner, and the smell when it’s cooking? Absolutely amazing! I love serving it with rice and beans for a complete meal that warms the heart.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are popular for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breast can work, though the flavor will differ. For a beef alternative, try using turkey breast for a lighter meal.
Vinegar: Typically white or apple cider is used. You can swap it for lime juice or red wine vinegar if that’s what you have, both add a nice tang! I personally love using lime juice for a fresher taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed. I often squeeze in an extra clove for that garlic kick!
Spices: Oregano and cumin are key for the Puerto Rican flavor. If you’re out of oregano, Italian seasoning works pretty well too! Paprika can be swapped with chili powder for an extra spice level.
Onions: I stick with yellow onions for their sweetness, but white onions or even red ones are great alternatives. If you want a different flavor profile, try shallots.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can truly enhance your dish! It’s all about low and slow cooking to bring out their natural sugars. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat oil in the skillet on medium heat. The skillet should be hot but not smoking.
- Add sliced onions and stir to coat them in the oil.
- Cook covered for about 5 minutes, then uncover and lower the heat to medium-low.
- Keep stirring occasionally for 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown and tender; this brings out their sweetness!
Be patient; this step makes a huge difference in flavor! If they begin to stick, a splash of water can help loosen them up.
Puerto Rican Steak and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
For the Onions:
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Puerto Rican Steak and Onions dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours for the best flavor). Cooking will take approximately 15-20 minutes, so overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 35 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, prepare the marinade by mixing together the olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. This is where the magic begins!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the strips of steak to the marinade, making sure each piece gets thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, let it marinate for 2-4 hours to let the flavors really soak in.
3. Sear the Steak:
When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated steak in batches. Sear for about 3-5 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside while you work on the onions.
4. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced onion rings. Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized—this should take about 7-10 minutes. Yum!
5. Add the Tomatoes:
If you want to include a burst of color and flavor, add the cherry tomatoes to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking the onions, allowing them to soften a bit.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked steak back to the skillet with the onions and tomatoes. Stir everything together and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so those lovely flavors can mingle.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and see if it needs a little more salt or pepper. Adjust to your liking!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the dish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if you like. Serve hot with a side of white rice, beans, or your favorite Puerto Rican sides. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Puerto Rican Steak and Onions!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak and skirt steak are traditional choices, you can also use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a lighter version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for chicken, which cooks faster.
Can I Prepare the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the steak to the marinade. This can save you time during busy days!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the dish seems dry, a splash of broth or water can help rejuvenate it!
What Can I Serve with Puerto Rican Steak and Onions?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, black beans, or even fried plantains for a complete meal. A side salad or roasted vegetables also make great additions for a balanced plate!
