Grilled Skirt Steak with Cumin and Cliantro
Perfect with chilled Mexican beer, such as
Negra Modelo or Dos Equis Amber
6 Servings
1/2 cup cumin seeds (about 1-3/4 ounces)
1 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
6 tablespoons coarsely chopped seeded jalapeno chiles (about 4 large)
5 large garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons cracked black pepper
2 large bunches cilantro with stems (about 6 ounces)
3 pounds skirt steak, excess fat trimmed, cut into 6 pieces total
Saute cumin seeds in heavy medium skillet
over medium-low heat until lightly
toasted, about 6 minutes. Transfer seeds
to blender. Add 1/4 cup oil, lime juice,
chilies, garlic and 2 tablespoons black
pepper to blender. Blend until cumin is
finely ground. Add cilantro and 3/4cup oil.
Puree until smooth. Season with salt.
Transfer marinade to large glass baking
dish. Add steaks; turn to coat. Cover
and refrigerate, turning occasionally, at
least 6 hours and up to 1 day.
Prepare barbecue (medium-high
heat). Remove steaks from marinade. Grill
steaks to desired doneness, about 4 minutes
per side for medium-rare. Cut steaks
diagonally across grain and serve.