Iowa Grilled Steak Tacos - Perfectly Seared & Juicy

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready to make the most flavorful, juicy grilled steak tacos Iowa-style! By using the unique high-heat searing power of the Arteflame grill, you’ll lock in the steak’s natural juices while achieving a mouth-watering crust. Pair it with fresh onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of zesty lime for a taco experience like no other!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup diced white onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Optional: sliced jalapeños, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the Arteflame grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1000°F.

Step 2: Season the steak

1. Rub the steak with butter.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin.

Step 3: Sear the steak

1. Place the steak on the center grill grate to sear at 1000°F for 1-2 minutes per side to lock in the juices.
2. Once seared, move the steak to the outer flat-top cooking surface and cook to the desired doneness.
3. Remove the steak when it's about 15°F below the target temperature, as residual heat will continue cooking it.

Step 4: Grill the tortillas

1. While the steak rests, place the corn tortillas on the flat-top griddle.
2. Warm them for about 30 seconds per side until they are slightly charred and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the tacos

1. Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain.
2. Fill each tortilla with sliced steak.
3. Top with diced onions and chopped cilantro.
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over each taco.
5. Optional: Add sliced jalapeños or crumbled queso fresco.

Tips

• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Use fresh, warm tortillas for the best taco experience.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle: Add chipotle powder to the steak seasoning for a smoky heat.
2. Citrus Marinade: Marinate the steak in lime and orange juice for an extra citrusy kick.
3. Texas BBQ: Brush the steak with BBQ sauce before grilling.
4. Cheese Lover’s: Melt shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on the tortillas before topping with steak.
5. Avocado Bliss: Add sliced avocado and a drizzle of sour cream for richness.

Conclusion

Grilled steak tacos on the Arteflame grill offer an unbeatable combination of smoky, juicy steak with fresh toppings. The high-heat sear locks in the flavors, while the flat cooktop ensures a perfectly grilled meal. Try these tacos with friends and family for an unforgettable outdoor grilling experience!

Best Pairings

• Grilled street corn (elote)
• Mexican rice
• Refried beans
• Fresh margaritas
• Pico de gallo with tortilla chips
• A light Mexican lager beer