Weeknight Winner: One-Pot Beef and Vegetable Fajitas with Fresh Cilantro
[Image description: A mouth-watering one-pot dish filled with sizzling beef and colorful vegetables, garnished with fresh cilantro and served with crispy tortillas. The vibrant colors of the dish pop against the bright white background, making your taste buds drool.]
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate
Ingredients:
For the beef and vegetables:
- 1 lb beef fajita-cut strips (sirloin or ribeye)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the fresh cilantro and fajitas:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- Sour cream, shredded cheese, and other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot, set aside.
- Soften the onions and bell peppers in the same pot, cooking for 5-7 minutes or until they start to char. Add the garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the mushrooms and zucchinis to the pot, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until they start to tenderize. Add the beef broth, browned beef, and any accumulated juices to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
- Tortilla time! Warm the corn tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds. Assemble the fajitas by slicing the beef and vegetables, and placing them onto a warmed tortilla. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and other toppings (if desired).
- Serve and enjoy! These flavorful fajitas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips and Variations:
- Use leftover beef and vegetables in tacos, salads, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
- Swap beef with chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
- Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or add a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra creamy topping.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the beef and add additional vegetables, such as diced carrots, corn, or chopped bell peppers.
Get ready to savor the flavors of the one-pot beef and vegetable fajitas, infused with the brightness of fresh cilantro and the warmth of a delicious Weeknight Winner!
