Hello friends of Paulina Cocina! Today we're going to delve into the wonderful world of Alambre de Res . This dish, native to the rich Mexican cuisine , is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends.
Let's explore all the secrets behind this delicious recipe: from its ingredients to the best tricks for making a beef alambre that will leave everyone wanting more. Put on your apron, let's get cooking!
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About the Beef Wire
Beef alambre is one of those Mexican recipes that has evolved over time. Originally, it was simply cooked beef with some vegetables, but today we find versions with all sorts of toppings, from bacon to melted cheese . They are typically served in corn tortillas like tacos.
This has become a popular dish , not only in homes but also in taquerias and restaurants across the country and beyond. Its popularity is linked to its delicious flavor, ease of preparation, and ability to adapt to different preferences and cooking styles.
- In many regions of Mexico, beef alambre is a festive dish , served at family gatherings and celebrations .
Plus, the simplicity and accessibility of the ingredients make this an ideal dish for those looking to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Particular origin of the name, Alambre de Res
The reason why it is called beef wire has a fairly simple explanation and is related to the way the dish was originally prepared.
- In Mexican cuisine, the term "alambre" refers to the practice of placing ingredients on a wire or skewer to grill or roast them.
Originally, ingredients (including meat, peppers, onions , and sometimes bacon) were threaded onto a metal wire and grilled together, similar to a kebab or skewer . Over time, the wire preparation was adapted for pan-frying, but the name remained as a reference to this early technique.
Beef wire refers specifically to the version of the dish that uses beef as its main ingredient. This adaptation has endured in Mexican cuisine, and today it's common to find it made with different types of meat, such as chicken or pork , but the name still evokes the traditional technique of threading ingredients onto a wire to cook them together.
Main ingredients of beef wire
To make a beef wire you will need:
- Beef: A good steak is ideal, but ground beef can also be used.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty touch.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Peppers: You can use green, red, and yellow bell peppers to add color and flavor.
- Chile poblano: For a touch of spice.
- Cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for a creamy finish.
Tips and tricks for the best beef wire
- Quality meat: Invest in a good cut of meat. A juicy steak will make all the difference in flavor.
- Control the heat: If you're not a fan of chili, you can omit this ingredient or use a milder variety. Bell peppers also provide a delicious flavor without the heat.
- Variations: Don't hesitate to experiment , it's how you make the best discoveries. You can add other ingredients like mushrooms, potatoes, or even pineapple for a sweet and sour touch.
- Pre-marinade: If you have time, marinate the meat with a little lemon juice, garlic, and cumin before cooking. This will intensify the flavor .
Why make beef wire at home?
Making homemade beef alambre is a rewarding experience . Not only because you have complete control over the ingredients and spice level, but also because you can enjoy an authentic Mexican meal at home. Plus, this is a fairly simple recipe that doesn't require complicated techniques, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Comparison with other wires
Beef brisket is just one of the many varieties you can find. Other popular types include chicken brisket , pork brisket , and mixed brisket . Each has its own unique charm and flavor, but beef brisket stands out for its intensity and versatility.
Some suggestions and other similar recipes
In addition to being a very easy recipe to prepare, this one is very versatile, as we already mentioned. The best thing about it is that you can add any ingredients you like. It's very common to prepare beef alambre with mushrooms , and you can even try adding ham, leg, or bacon. Another very popular alternative is beef alambre with pineapple, as well as with nopales.
- I recommend serving the beef alambre on your own wheat or corn flour tortillas and accompanying it with an exquisite guacamole .
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are other delicious Mexican recipes so you can continue enjoying the flavors of this diverse cuisine. Like beef barbacoa tacos or enfrijoladas .
Before starting
This is a dish that's not only delicious but also highly adaptable to personal tastes. Remember, the key is in the quality of the ingredients and taking your time to cook each step with love.
Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure! I hope you try this recipe and explore Mexico through its palate, aromas, and flavors.
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Beef Wire Recipe
Yield : 4 portions
Preparation time : 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 300 grams of beef in pieces
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- ½ onion, julienned
- 1 julienned green pepper
- 1 julienned red pepper
- 1 julienned yellow pepper
- Salt and pepper
- 300 grams of quesillo or cheese that melts easily, you can also use Chihuahua or Gouda cheese.
- 8 tortillas
How to make beef wire step by step
- In a pan or pot, heat the oil and add the chopped onion, stirring constantly until the onion begins to turn transparent and brown slightly.
- When the onion is golden brown, add the diced beef and season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
- When the meat is browned in certain areas, it's time to add the chopped peppers, mix to combine the flavors, and season with a little more salt and pepper. Let everything cook for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Finally, add the quesillo cheese so it melts with all the meat. And that's it! Serve the beef alambre in a wheat or corn tortilla and garnish with sour cream and a touch of lemon.
