Mexican Beef Tips Recipe

This Mexican Beef Tips recipe is my new go-to for when I’m craving a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilling with friends. The combination of spices and that lime juice finish seriously takes it to another level of deliciousness!

Creating dishes that burst with flavor is my passion, and these Mexican beef tips do just that. They start with tender beef tips that are sautéed in vegetable oil along with onions, garlic, and an array of spices, including cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder.

The result, when served with a broth that’s made zesty with diced tomatoes and fresh lime juice, is just delightful.

Mexican Beef Tips Recipe Ingredients

• Beef Tips: Rich in protein and iron, provides hearty flavor.
• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: Boosts flavor with aromatic spice and health benefits.
• Ground Cumin: Earthy warmth; enhances Mexican cuisine authenticity.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a smoky, mildly spicy note.
• Chili Powder: Provides heat and a rich, peppery flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture, acidity, and a touch of sweetness.
• Beef Broth: Deepens savory richness; base for simmering.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Offers a tangy, umami burst.
• Cilantro: Fresh, citrusy herb for a vibrant finish.

Mexican Beef Tips Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 pounds beef tips, cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

How to Make this Mexican Beef Tips Recipe

1. In a big frying pan over medium-high heat, warm the vegetable oil. Put the beef tips in the pan and sear them until they’ve browned all over. Take the beef out of the pan and set it aside.

2. Add onion, chopped, to the same skillet and sauté over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the garlic, minced, to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add to the ingredients: ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 1 minute.

5. Return the beef tips to the skillet, and mix well with the spices and onion mixture.

6. Combine the diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce in the skillet. Stir well.

7. Heat the mixture to a boiling point, then lower the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 1 to
1.5 hours, or until the beef tips are fork-tender. Stir the mixture now and then and add more beef broth if it needs it.

8. Sprinkle on salt and black pepper to suit your taste.

9. When the beef is tender, take the skillet off the heat. Top it with freshly chopped cilantro.

10. Accompany the Mexican Beef Tips with lime wedges so diners can squeeze fresh juice over the top of the dish just before diving in.

Mexican Beef Tips Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large frying pan or skillet
2. Stove
3. Measuring spoons
4. Cooking spoon or spatula
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Tongs (optional, for turning beef)
8. Can opener (for diced tomatoes)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
  A: Yes, you can use other tender cuts like sirloin or chuck if beef tips aren’t available.
• Q: Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
  A: Increase the cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
  A: Absolutely! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Q: How should I serve Mexican Beef Tips?
  A: Serve over rice or with warm tortillas, garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
• Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  A: Yes, the flavors develop even more if made ahead. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
• Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
  A: Substitute beef tips with mushrooms or jackfruit for a vegetarian option.

Mexican Beef Tips Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Instead of beef tips, you may use cubed sirloin steak or flank steak for a lean option.
If you cannot obtain vegetable oil, you can substitute it with either canola oil or olive oil.
If smoked paprika is not available, you can use regular paprika, but it will alter the flavor a bit.
You can use ancho chili powder or chipotle powder for a different flavor profile in your chili. Ancho chili powder brings a subtle sweetness with its medium heat that won’t overpower your dish.

Chipotle powder, on the other hand, has a slightly smoky flavor and is spicier than ancho or regular chili powder.
If you like it less hot, you can leave out the cayenne pepper or substitute it with a dash or two of ground black pepper.

Pro Tips

1. Browning the Beef Properly Make sure to not overcrowd the pan when searing the beef tips. If necessary, brown the beef in batches. This ensures each piece develops a nice crust, enhancing the flavor of the final dish.

2. Layering the Spices When toasting the spices, be careful not to burn them. The goal is to release their essential oils and deepen the flavors. This step is crucial for developing the dish’s signature depth and aroma.

3. Simmering for Tenderness Be patient during the simmering phase. The beef should be fork-tender, and the low, slow cooking will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Adjusting Seasonings Taste the dish towards the end of cooking and adjust the salt, pepper, and heat level. The smoky cumin and paprika balance well with a hint of heat, so add cayenne pepper carefully if included.

5. Cilantro and Lime Finish Fresh cilantro and lime juice add brightness and enhance the dish’s final flavor profile. Offer lime wedges on the side so each person can adjust the acidity to their preference. This final touch can transform the dish from good to great.