Sabana De Res

Sabana de Res is a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender slices of seared beef in a smoky, tangy sauce made from chilies, garlic, and tomatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, offering bold flavors and a comforting balance of textures.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 518 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet or frying pan
Blender or food processor
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Spatula or tongs
Saucepan (for rice, optional)

Ingredients

1 slice beef steak (flank or sirloin), thinly sliced

2 tablespoons olive oil

Pinch kosher salt

Pinch ground black pepper

2 garlic cloves or minced garlic

1 medium onion, sliced

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

1 pasilla chili

1 guajillo chili

1 can crushed tomatoes

1/4 cup beef broth or beef stock

1/4 cup lime juice

1 tablespoon cream cheese

1 cup rice, cooked

1 avocado, sliced

1 tablespoon freshly chopped cilantro

1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled

Instructions

Season the beef slices with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the beef slices on both sides until browned and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, sesame seeds, pasilla chili, and guajillo chili. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the chilies release their aroma.

Transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender or food processor. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.

Pour the sauce back into the skillet. Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Return the seared beef to the skillet, ensuring the slices are coated in the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors.

Serve the beef and sauce over a bed of cooked rice. Top with avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese.

Notes

Chili Substitutes: If pasilla or guajillo chilies are unavailable, ancho chilies make an excellent replacement.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with portobello mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and sear the beef in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
Rice Tips: Use long-grain rice or cilantro-lime rice for added flavor.

Enjoy this timeless Sabana de Res recipe as a celebration of bold, smoky, and tangy flavors in every bite!

Keyword sabana de res