Irresistible Rib Eye Steaks with Tomato Harissa Recipe
Written By Avi Green
Rib eye steaks are a culinary delight that many barbecue enthusiasts swear by. This delectable cut of beef comes alive when paired with a robust, flavorful sauce, and that's where our Tomato Harissa Recipe plays a significant role. If youre a fan of perfectly cooked steak with a kick of spicy, saucy goodness, then youre going to love what's about to unfold. This recipe doesnt just satisfy hunger; it creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Why Rib Eye Steak?
An indulgent cut of beef stems from its distinctive marbled fat. These streaks of fat imbue a richness and tenderness unmatched by any other cut. Rib eye steaks are prized for their depth of flavor and ability to stay juicy even when theyre cooked at high temperatures. This makes them the perfect candidate for grilling, baking, or even searing.
Combining the savory richness of a rib eye steak with the fiery and complex flavors of tomato harissa, we can create a symphony of taste that dances on the palate. This is more than just a steak cooked on a griddle. It's a culinary adventure that elevates your basic steak night into a gourmet meal.
The Allure of Tomato Harissa
Tomato harissa isn't just a simple sauce; it's a vibrant amalgamation of spices and flavors that transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. Harissa is a North African chili paste made with roasted red peppers, hot chili peppers, and a myriad of spices. When combined with tomatoes, it brings a tangy yet subtly sweet heat that complements the rich, succulent nature of rib eye steaks.
Making your own tomato harissa sauce can be incredibly rewarding. The blend of flavors can be adjusted to suit your preference for spiciness or sweetness. This sauce is versatile, allowing you to use it as a marinade, dip, or accompaniment to a multitude of dishes. Embrace this exotic touch of North African cuisine right in your kitchen.
Ingredients and Tools Needed
For the Rib Eye Steaks:
- Two 14-oz rib eye steaks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- Griddle or pan
- Blender or food processor
Preparing the Tomato Harissa Sauce
Begin with the cornerstone of our dish the tomato harissa sauce. Start by roasting the red bell peppers either over a flame or in the oven until charred. This enhances their natural sweetness. Peel the skin once cooled and deseed them. In a saucepan over medium heat, saut chopped tomatoes with minced garlic in olive oil until tomatoes are softened. Then, add in all the spices - cumin, smoked paprika, coriander. Stir for a few minutes to bring out their intense aromas.
Once the tomatoes are mashed and incorporated with spices, add the roasted peppers and blend the mixture until smooth using a blender. Finally, mix in red wine vinegar for a bit of acidity to balance out the flavors, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce can be kept refrigerated and even used later for other meals!
Expert Tips for Grilling Rib Eye Steaks
Start by letting your rib eye steaks acclimate to room temperature, so they cook evenly. Lightly oil them with olive oil and then generously sprinkle salt and pepper. Preheat your griddle or grill pan for a beautiful sear. The secret to a great sear is a dry surface and a well-heated pan.
Cook the steaks over medium-high heat for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. Once grilled to perfection, let the steaks rest for several minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring every bite is packed with succulent flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve the rib eye steaks topped with generous dollops of tomato harissa sauce. The robust flavors of harissa marinate and enhance the juiciness of the meat wonderfully. Pair this dish with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes to complement the spicy, savory taste.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a side of couscous or quinoa infused with fresh herbs. The grains will soak up any extra sauce, providing an extra layer of flavor. A glass of bold red wine, such as a classic Cabernet Sauvignon, would be the perfect accompaniment to this superb meal.
Preserve the Tools, Preserve the Flavors
To keep the lingering taste of epic meals on your tools rather than your next dish, proper cleaning is paramount. Use a quality cookware cleaner to keep your pans in pristine condition, and remember to treat your cutting boards with cutting board oil to maintain their life and quality.
Cooking rib eye steaks with tomato harissa is more than making a meal; it's creating an experience that tantalizes the senses. The allure of medium-rare, perfectly seared steak, met with the exotic, spicy notes of harissa, makes for an unforgettable taste adventure. This dish bridges the gap between traditional steak recipes and innovative, global cuisine.
For more beef recipes that will ignite your culinary passion, check out this [collection of beef recipes](https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/ingredients/beef-recipes/?nofollow=true) that will surely inspire your next grilling adventure.
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