Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze

Introduction:

Elevate your steak night with a tantalizing twist of Cajun seasoning and a luscious Apricot Orange Glaze. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the sweet and tangy notes of apricot and orange, creating a mouthwatering symphony of tastes. Join us as we delve into the savory delight of Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dining experience at home.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs. tri-tip roast(s)

Marinade:

• 1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cajun Spice Mix

Cajun Spice Mix:

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon each paprika, smoked paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, chili powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons each cayenne pepper, salt
• 1 teaspoon each dried basil, dried thyme, pepper

Apricot Orange Glaze:

• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon reserved Cajun Spices

Directions:

1. Spice Rub/Marinade: Whisk together Cajun Spice Mix. Combine 2 tablespoons with all Marinade
2. ingredients in a plastic bag. Pierce steak, add to bag, and massage. Marinate 8-24 hours.
3. For the glaze, whisk 1 teaspoon Reserved Cajun Spice Rub with all Apricot Orange Glaze ingredients in a
4. saucepan. Simmer until thickened.
5. Rub steak with remaining Cajun Spice Rub mixed with oil. Let sit at room temperature 30-60 minutes.
6. Grill at 400°F, searing each side 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°F, grill 15 minutes, flip, then 10-20
7. minutes more. Aim for 135°F (medium rare) to 145°F (medium).
8. Rest steak 10 minutes, slice thinly across the grain. Serve with Apricot Orange Glaze.
9. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Serving Tips:

1. Slice Before Serving: For a visually appealing presentation, slice the cooked steak against the grain into thin strips before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also makes it easier to enjoy.
2. Drizzle with Glaze: Before serving, drizzle any remaining apricot orange glaze over the sliced steak for an extra burst of flavor and a glossy finish. This adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the plated steak for a pop of color and freshness. Fresh herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle layer of flavor.
4. Serve with Side Dishes: Accompany the Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze with complementary side dishes such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or garlic mashed potatoes. These sides help balance the flavors and complete the meal.
5. Pair with Wine: Serve the steak alongside a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, or a white wine like Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity and fruity notes complement the savory steak and citrusy glaze.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftover steak, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate it promptly. Properly stored, cooked steak will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheat Before Serving: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the steak gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the steak from becoming tough or dry.
3. Store Glaze Separately: If storing leftovers with the apricot orange glaze, store the glaze separately in a sealed container to prevent it from making the steak soggy. Reheat the glaze separately and drizzle it over the reheated steak just before serving.
4. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you don’t plan to consume the leftovers within a few days, you can freeze the cooked steak for longer storage. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, the steak will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
5. Label and Date: To keep track of when the steak was stored, label the container with the date it was prepared before refrigerating or freezing. This helps ensure you use the leftovers within a safe timeframe.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use various cuts of beef such as ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip for Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze. Choose a cut that suits your preference for tenderness and flavor.
2. Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
   • Cajun seasoning typically contains a blend of spices that may include paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, among others. While it adds a bit of heat, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the brand and the amount used. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your desired level of heat.
3. Can I make the apricot orange glaze ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the apricot orange glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving with the steak. Make sure to stir the glaze well to ensure a smooth consistency.
4. Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing it?
   • Absolutely! Grilling the steak adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the seasoned steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Brush the apricot orange glaze onto the steaks during the last few minutes of grilling.
5. What side dishes pair well with Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze?
   • This flavorful steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp garden salad. The contrast of textures and flavors enhances the overall dining experience.

Conclusion:

Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze offers a delightful fusion of bold flavors and succulent textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet dining experience at home, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Cajun cuisine with a touch of citrusy sweetness. So fire up the grill or heat up the skillet, and prepare to savor every delicious bite of this mouthwatering masterpiece!