Frequently Asked Questions
What is Colombian Skirt Steak in Hogao Sauce?
It is a traditional Colombian dish featuring tender, marinated skirt steak that is seared and then simmered in a savory tomato and onion sauce known as hogao.
What is Hogao sauce?
Hogao is a staple Colombian sauce made from sautéed green onions, tomatoes, garlic, and cumin, often used as a base or topping for various dishes.
How long should I marinate the skirt steak?
The steak should be refrigerated for at least one hour, though marinating it overnight provides the maximum flavor.
How do I prepare the skirt steak before marinating?
Flatten the steaks by placing them between sheets of wax paper and gently pounding them with a mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
What ingredients are used in the steak marinade?
The marinade consists of vegetable oil, prepared mustard, ground cumin, minced garlic cloves, chopped cilantro, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
What are the primary ingredients for the hogao sauce?
The sauce requires vegetable oil, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and fresh cilantro.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories, 17.5g of fat, 7.5g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
What should I serve with Colombian Skirt Steak?
It is traditionally served with white rice, beans, creamy avocado, and an arepa or corn cake.
How long does it take to cook the hogao sauce?
The sauce takes about 25 to 30 minutes in total to cook until the tomatoes have softened and broken down.
How long should I sear the steaks?
Sear the steaks in a large skillet over medium heat for approximately 3 minutes per side until they are nicely browned.
How long do the steaks simmer in the sauce?
After searing, pour the hogao sauce over the steaks and simmer for an additional 7 minutes.
What kind of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using plum tomatoes, which should be chopped to yield about 2 cups.
Can I use the hogao sauce for other dishes?
Yes, the recipe yields a generous amount of sauce that can be enjoyed with beans or as a topping for other proteins.
How much skirt steak is needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 1/2 lbs of skirt steak, trimmed and cut into 4 equal portions.
Is there a lot of garlic in this recipe?
The recipe uses a total of 3 garlic cloves: 2 minced for the marinade and 1 minced for the hogao sauce.
What type of onion is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of chopped green onions, which is about 5 stalks.
Does this dish contain any sugar?
According to the nutritional information, this recipe contains no sugar.
What is the recommended thickness for the steak?
The steaks should be pounded until they reach a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Can I substitute vegetable oil?
While vegetable oil is specified, you can use other neutral-flavored oils with a high smoke point if preferred.
How much cumin is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of ground cumin for the marinade and 1 teaspoon for the hogao sauce.
Is the steak sliced before or after cooking?
The steak is cooked whole in portions and can be sliced after the simmering process if desired before serving.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The dish is rich and vibrant, characterized by the aromatic combination of garlic, cumin, cilantro, and the sweetness of cooked tomatoes.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a traditional Colombian comfort food, perfect for family dinners.
Does the recipe include fiber information?
The specific fiber content for this recipe is not provided in the nutritional data.
Is sodium or cholesterol tracked for this recipe?
No, the sodium and cholesterol levels are not specified in the provided recipe information.
How much cilantro is needed?
You need 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro for the marinade and 1/4 cup for the hogao sauce.
Can this recipe be made quickly?
The active cooking time is relatively short, but you must account for at least one hour of marination time for the best results.
Is mustard a common ingredient in Colombian steak?
In this specific recipe, prepared mustard is used in the marinade to help tenderize the meat and add a layer of tanginess.
What is the total number of ingredients used?
There are 17 ingredients total, including spices and oils used in different stages of the recipe.