Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
320 | 25g | 6g | 2g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
0g | 1g | 24g | 0.7g |
From the moment I stumbled upon the combination of a hearty steak and the vibrant flavors of Huacatay Chimichurri, I was hooked. This recipe, Grilled Steak with Huacatay Chimichurri, strikes a beautiful balance between the robust, smoky flavors of perfectly grilled sirloin steak and the fresh, herbal nuances of huacatay, also known as Peruvian black mint. While huacatay can be hard to find, substituting it with a mix of fresh cilantro and mint creates an equally delightful chimichurri that brightens up the dish in the most aromatic way.
A Fusion of Cultures
This recipe embodies a fusion of culinary traditions. The grilled steak brings the simplicity and hearty satisfaction that is a hallmark of many Pacific Northwest dishes. On the other hand, the Huacatay Chimichurri dips into the rich, herbaceous sauces often found in South American cuisine. My background of combining Pacific Northwest ingredients with my Japanese heritage means I’m no stranger to blending flavors from different corners of the world. This dish is a testament to that philosophy, creating something both familiar and excitingly new.
Health Benefits
Beyond being a mouthwatering dish, Grilled Steak with Huacatay Chimichurri also packs a punch in terms of health benefits. Sirloin steak is a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The fresh herbs in the chimichurri, including parsley, huacatay (or cilantro and mint), offer a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. Garlic and shallots, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, complement the digestive benefits of red wine vinegar. Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while the lemon zest and juice offer a refreshing dose of Vitamin C.
Perfect Pairings
If you’re looking to complete your meal, consider pairing this dish with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables or a simple mixed greens salad would complement the rich flavors of the steak. Alternatively, rice pilaf or quinoa could serve as a hearty base, soaking up any extra chimichurri. For a twist on tradition, serve it alongside a bowl of miso soup, allowing the umami flavors to dance on your palate.
This recipe reminds me slightly of Argentinian Chimichurri dishes or even a good old Texas BBQ steak, but with a unique twist that makes it stand out on its own. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a date night, Grilled Steak with Huacatay Chimichurri is sure to impress and satisfy.
Once you get a taste of this exquisite harmony of flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love. Every slice of the steak, coated in the vibrant, zesty chimichurri, brings a sense of joy and fulfillment, truly making this recipe one for the books.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs sirloin steak
- 1/2 cup fresh huacatay leaves (or substitutable with fresh cilantro and mint if not available)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 shallot
- 1/2 red chili pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
Method
Step One
Prepare the Huacatay Chimichurri by placing the fresh huacatay leaves (or cilantro and mint), fresh parsley leaves, garlic cloves, shallot, and red chili pepper (if using) into a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
Step Two
Add the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, and ground cumin to the food processor. Pulse to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and the zest and juice of one lemon. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Step Three
Preheat your grill to high heat. Season the sirloin steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step Four
Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy.
Step Five
Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step Six
Slice the steak against the grain and serve with a generous spoonful of Huacatay Chimichurri on top. Enjoy!