Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

29 May, 2023

Authentic Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe: A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight!

Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Category: Main dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 300 calories

About this recipe

Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas are a mouthwatering Tex-Mex dish that will leave you craving for more. These fajitas are known for their tender and flavorful beef, combined with caramelized onions and bell peppers, all wrapped up in warm flour tortillas.

To create that irresistible taste, the beef is marinated in a delicious blend of vegetable oil, lime juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

This marinade infuses the beef with tangy and savory flavors, making it incredibly tasty. It's important to let the beef marinate for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

Once the beef is marinated, it's time to cook it to perfection. You can either use a skillet or a grill pan to sear the beef slices. The high heat quickly locks in the juices, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

The cooking time may vary depending on your preference, but aim for about 4-5 minutes per side. Remember to let the beef rest before slicing it to keep the juices intact.

While the beef is resting, it's time to cook the onions and bell peppers. These veggies add a delightful sweetness and crunch to the fajitas. Sauté them in the same skillet you used for the beef, allowing them to soften and caramelize slightly. This step adds a depth of flavor and complements the beef beautifully.

Once everything is cooked, it's time to assemble your fajitas. Warm up the flour tortillas, either in a skillet or in the oven, to make them pliable. Place a generous portion of the beef and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla.

You can customize your fajitas with additional toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese. These toppings add extra creaminess, freshness, and a burst of flavors to every bite.

Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex favorite that combines the bold and robust flavors of marinated beef with the sweetness of caramelized onions and bell peppers. The warm tortillas serve as a perfect vessel to hold all the delicious fillings.

Recipe origin and background

The exact origin of the Lupe Tortilla beef fajita recipe is tied to the restaurant chain called Lupe Tortilla.

Lupe Tortilla is a Tex-Mex restaurant based in Houston, Texas, known for its flavorful fajitas and other Mexican-inspired dishes. While the specific recipe for their beef fajitas may be proprietary and not publicly available, their style of beef fajitas has gained popularity among food enthusiasts.

Fajitas, in general, have roots in Mexican cuisine. The term "fajita" originally referred to a cut of beef called skirt steak, which was popularized in the cattle ranching regions of northern Mexico and southern Texas.

The skirt steak was traditionally considered a less desirable cut of meat and was often given to the Mexican cowboys, known as vaqueros, as part of their wages.

Over time, the vaqueros discovered that marinating and grilling the skirt steak made it tender and flavorful. They would slice the grilled meat and serve it on warm tortillas, often accompanied by grilled onions and peppers. This style of preparing and serving skirt steak became known as "fajitas."

Lupe Tortilla, like many Tex-Mex restaurants, has taken this traditional concept of fajitas and developed its own unique recipe and flavor profile. The specific blend of marinades, spices, and cooking techniques used by Lupe Tortilla has contributed to the distinct taste and popularity of their beef fajitas.

While Lupe Tortilla's beef fajita recipe may have its own twists and variations, it ultimately pays homage to the rich history and culinary traditions of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, showcasing the delicious combination of marinated beef, onions, and peppers, wrapped in warm tortillas.

Why try this Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe?

You should definitely give the Lupe Tortilla beef fajita recipe a try for several reasons:

Flavorful and Delicious: Lupe Tortilla is known for its delicious fajitas, and this recipe aims to replicate that signature taste. The marinade used for the beef infuses it with tangy, savory, and aromatic flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering and satisfying dish.
Tex-Mex Classic: Beef fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex dish loved by many. By trying this recipe, you get to experience the authentic flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine and enjoy a beloved staple that has stood the test of time.
Customizable: One of the great things about fajitas is that they can be personalized to your liking. You can add your favorite toppings and accompaniments, such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or shredded cheese, to enhance the flavors and create a fajita that suits your preferences.
Easy to Prepare: While the marinade requires some time to let the flavors develop, the actual cooking process is relatively straightforward. With simple techniques like grilling or searing the beef and sautéing the onions and peppers, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a festive celebration, beef fajitas are sure to please a crowd and leave everyone satisfied.
Cultural Appreciation: Trying different cuisines allows you to explore and appreciate different cultures. By preparing Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas, you can pay homage to the Tex-Mex culinary traditions and gain a deeper understanding of the flavors and techniques that make this cuisine so beloved.

So, if you're looking to indulge in a flavorful and satisfying Tex-Mex experience, trying the Lupe Tortilla beef fajita recipe is definitely worth it. It's a chance to savor the delicious combination of marinated beef, caramelized onions and peppers, and warm tortillas, all coming together in a dish that's sure to delight your taste buds.

What does Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita taste like?

Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas offer a burst of bold and savory flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The marinated beef is the star of the dish, with its tender texture and robust taste.

The marinade, which often includes a combination of citrus, spices, and seasonings, infuses the beef with a tangy and zesty flavor profile.

When you take a bite of Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas, you'll experience the juicy and succulent meat, enhanced by the savory and slightly smoky notes from grilling or searing. The beef is typically cooked to a medium doneness, allowing it to retain its tenderness while still offering a slight charred exterior.

The caramelized onions and bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and provide a pleasant contrast to the savory beef. The onions become soft and slightly sweet as they cook, while the bell peppers contribute a mild crunch and a subtle pepperiness. Together, they complement the beef and create a harmonious combination of flavors.

The warm flour tortillas used to wrap the fajitas provide a soft and pillowy texture, and their mild flavor allows the beef and vegetables to shine. The tortillas serve as a vehicle to hold the flavorful fillings, offering a delightful contrast in every bite.

Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas deliver a mouthwatering experience with their well-marinated, tender beef, the caramelized sweetness of the onions and peppers, and the comforting warmth of the tortillas.
The combination of flavors creates a satisfying and robust Tex-Mex taste that has made these fajitas a beloved dish among many food enthusiasts.

What is in Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita?

Beef Skirt Steak: This cut of beef is traditionally used for fajitas due to its flavor and tenderness. It's important to thinly slice the steak for quick and even cooking.
Vegetable Oil: Used as part of the marinade and for cooking the beef and vegetables, vegetable oil helps add moisture and prevent sticking.
Lime Juice: The acidity of lime juice helps tenderize the beef and adds a bright, tangy flavor to the marinade.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the fajitas, adding a savory and aromatic element.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds a savory and umami flavor to the marinade, enhancing the taste of the beef.
Spices: Ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper are all used to season the beef and provide a rich and well-rounded flavor profile.
Onion: Thinly sliced onion is sautéed to create a caramelized sweetness and added texture to the fajitas.
Bell Pepper: Sliced bell pepper adds vibrant color, a slight crunch, and a mild pepper flavor that complements the beef.
Flour Tortillas: These soft and pliable tortillas are used to wrap the beef and vegetable filling, providing a comforting base for the fajitas.
Toppings (optional): Guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese can be added as toppings to enhance the flavor and customize the fajitas according to personal preferences.

Equipment required for this recipe

Skillet or Grill Pan: This is used to cook the beef and vegetables. If you don't have a skillet or grill pan, you can use a regular frying pan or even a griddle as a substitute.
Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the marinade ingredients and coat the beef. If you don't have a mixing bowl, you can use any large bowl or even a resealable plastic bag for marinating.
Whisk or Fork: A whisk or fork is needed to mix the marinade ingredients together until well blended. If you don't have a whisk, a fork can be used as a substitute.
Tongs or Spatula: These are used to flip and handle the beef while cooking. Tongs are ideal for grilling, while a spatula works well for stovetop cooking. If you don't have tongs, a fork can be used as an alternative.
Cutting Board and Knife: A cutting board and a sharp knife are needed to thinly slice the beef, as well as to prepare the onions and bell peppers. Ensure that your knife is suitable for slicing meat.
Skillet or Pan for Vegetables: In addition to cooking the beef, you'll need a separate skillet or pan to cook the sliced onions and bell peppers. If you only have one skillet, you can cook the vegetables after removing the beef and set it aside.
Tortilla Warmer or Oven: A tortilla warmer is ideal for keeping the tortillas warm and pliable. If you don't have a tortilla warmer, you can use a clean kitchen towel or aluminum foil to wrap the tortillas and place them in a preheated oven at a low temperature to keep them warm.

How to make Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas with our authentic recipe. Perfectly seasoned beef, caramelized onions, and peppers, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Delight your taste buds today!

Ingredients

1.5 pounds of beef skirt steak, thinly sliced
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup lime juice
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
Flour tortillas
Guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese for serving

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, lime juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the marinade until well blended.
Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat the meat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef slices to the hot skillet, along with any excess marinade. Cook the beef for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook them over medium heat until they become tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
While the vegetables are cooking, warm the flour tortillas in a separate skillet or in the oven according to the package instructions.
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss everything together for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve the beef and vegetable mixture on warm flour tortillas. Accompany with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese, or any other desired toppings.

Enjoy your homemade Lupe Tortilla-style beef fajitas!

How to serve Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita

Prepare the Warm Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas according to the package instructions. You can warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side until they become soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at a low temperature.
Slice the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Then, thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. This step is important for achieving a desirable texture.
Sauteed Onions and Bell Peppers: If you cooked the onions and bell peppers separately, combine them with the sliced beef in the skillet or pan. Toss everything together for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Fajitas: Place a warm tortilla on a clean plate or a tortilla warmer. Spoon a generous portion of the beef and vegetable mixture onto the center of the tortilla. You can also drizzle any remaining pan juices over the filling for added flavor.
Add Toppings: Customize your fajitas by adding your favorite toppings. Common options include guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You can also include additional toppings like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Fold and Roll: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, slightly overlapping the filling, and then roll it up tightly from one end to the other. If desired, you can wrap the filled tortillas in aluminum foil or parchment paper to hold their shape and keep them warm.
Serve and Enjoy: Place the filled and rolled fajitas on a serving platter or individual plates. They are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them alongside additional toppings and any side dishes you prefer, such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side salad.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 684 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita, Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita with

Mexican Rice: Serve a side of fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices like cumin, tomato sauce, and vegetables. The savory rice complements the flavors of the fajitas and helps round out the meal.
Refried Beans: Classic refried beans, either homemade or canned, provide a creamy and flavorful addition to the meal. They can be served as a side dish or added directly into the fajitas for extra richness.
Guacamole: Creamy, homemade guacamole made with ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and spices adds a refreshing and tangy element to the fajitas. It pairs well with the savory beef and adds a cool contrast to the warm tortillas.
Salsa: Offer a variety of salsas, such as pico de gallo, salsa verde, or a smoky chipotle salsa. The vibrant and zesty flavors of the salsa complement the fajitas and add a burst of freshness.
Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy sour cream provides a cooling element to balance the spices in the fajitas. It can be dolloped on top of the filling or used as a dip for the fajitas.
Shredded Cheese: Offer a selection of shredded cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco. Sprinkle the cheese onto the fajitas to add a creamy and savory layer of flavor.
Fresh Garnishes: Provide fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or green onions. These toppings add brightness, crunch, and extra depth of flavor to the fajitas.
Side Salad: Serve a simple side salad with mixed greens, sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. The light and refreshing salad can help balance the richness of the fajitas.

My recommendations and tips

Marinating Time: Follow the recipe instructions for marinating the beef. Marinating for an adequate amount of time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender fajita. It's recommended to marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, marinating it overnight can intensify the flavors even further.
Slicing the Beef: When it comes to slicing the cooked beef, make sure to cut it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the meat's fibers, resulting in a more tender and easier-to-chew texture.
Heat Control: When cooking the beef, it's important to control the heat to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Whether grilling or using a skillet, aim for medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the outside while maintaining juiciness on the inside. Keep an eye on the meat and adjust the heat as needed.
Caramelizing Onions and Peppers: To achieve a delicious caramelized flavor for the onions and peppers, cook them over medium heat until they become soft and slightly browned around the edges. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and allow them to cook until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
Warm Tortillas Properly: Take care when warming the tortillas to prevent them from becoming dry or brittle. Heat them just enough to make them pliable, either in a skillet or in the oven. Wrapping them in foil or a clean kitchen towel helps retain moisture and warmth.
Customization: Fajitas are highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with toppings and side dishes to suit your taste preferences. Consider offering a variety of condiments, salsas, and garnishes to allow guests to personalize their fajitas.
Presentation: When serving, consider arranging the sliced beef, caramelized onions and peppers, and a variety of toppings in separate bowls or on a large platter. This allows guests to build their fajitas to their liking and create an appealing visual presentation.
Enjoy Freshly Cooked Fajitas: Fajitas are best enjoyed when they are freshly cooked and served hot. Plan your cooking and serving time accordingly to ensure the fajitas are served at their peak deliciousness.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Beef Skirt Steak: If skirt steak is not available, you can use flank steak as a substitute. It has a similar texture and can be thinly sliced for fajitas. Other options include hanger steak or thinly sliced sirloin.
Lime Juice: If you don't have lime juice, you can use lemon juice as a substitute. The citrusy acidity will still help tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor to the marinade.
Worcestershire Sauce: If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari sauce. These alternatives will provide a savory and umami flavor to the marinade.
Onion and Bell Pepper: While onions and bell peppers are traditional choices, you can experiment with other vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes for added variety and flavor.
Flour Tortillas: If you prefer or need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour tortillas with corn tortillas. They have a different texture and flavor, but they work well with fajita fillings.
Toppings: The toppings can be customized based on personal preferences and availability. Some substitutes for common fajita toppings include using Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt as a substitute for sour cream, using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for shredded cheese, and incorporating your favorite homemade or store-bought salsa or hot sauce.

What more?

Resting the Beef: After cooking the beef, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in more flavorful and tender slices.
Cooking Temperature for Beef: When cooking the beef, whether on a skillet or grill, aim for medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Be mindful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough and dry.
Cutting Against the Grain: When slicing the beef, it's essential to cut against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain helps break up the fibers, resulting in more tender meat.
Customization: Fajitas are a versatile dish, and you can adjust the seasonings and spices according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different marinade ingredients or spice combinations to create your unique flavor profile.
Serving Size: The serving size for the recipe may vary depending on your appetite and whether you're serving other side dishes. As a general guideline, plan for about 4-6 ounces (115-170 grams) of cooked beef per person, along with tortillas and desired toppings.
Leftovers: If you have leftover beef and vegetables, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be reheated in a skillet or microwave for easy and quick leftovers.
Safety Precautions: When marinating the beef, make sure to do so in the refrigerator to prevent any potential food safety risks. Additionally, when cooking the beef, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.

Final Remark

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas. This Tex-Mex favorite is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender beef, caramelized onions, and peppers for a truly memorable dining experience. Try our authentic recipe and elevate your next meal with deliciousness!