Fajitas!!!!

Who doesn’t love them? They are so warm and tender and full of flavor.  You can add or change out almost any of the ingredients to get a new and exciting flavor and texture.

I spent several years in southern California when I was a child. We were fortunate when Lupé came to help our family when Mother had back surgery. She gave us a love of Mexican food and its vibrant spices which was our first experience with international cuisine. And even though this is a Tex-Mex version, I fondly recall the wonderful meals she prepared for us.

This is my favorite go-to recipe because it’s easy, flavorful and only uses one pan so clean up is a snap! And because most of the ingredients are fresh from the garden the taste is fabulous!

1 lb Chicken or Steak, 1/4 inch slices or peeled & deveined Shrimp or any combination of those proteins

1 each Red, Yellow and Orange Bell Pepper, 1/4 inch slices

1 Jalapeño Pepper, chopped

1 Large Onion, 1/4 inch slices

1 tbsp minced garlic

4 tbsp Grapeseed Oil

2 tbsp Sea Salt

1 tbsp Cilantro

Flour Tortillas

1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese (optional)

1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional)

These fajitas cook very quickly with most of the time spent in preparation... slicing the veggies and meat.

I have found that when it comes to slicing meat into thin slices it’s much easier to do when I’ve put them in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. When that’s ready heat an 8 quart Dutch oven or large wok to high heat. Once the pan is heated, pour in 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Next add all the peppers and onions, 1 tbsp salt and garlic. Start stirring and don’t stop for 3 minutes. Remove the mixture to a large bowl and set aside.

Put the pan back on the heat and pour in 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, your sliced beef or chicken and 1 tbsp salt and start stirring again for about 5 minutes. Note** If using shrimp you will only want to heat them for 3 minutes on high. Toss in the cilantro. Add the pepper and onion mixture from the bowl and stir together for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat back to the bowl and it’s ready to serve.

Heat your tortilla for about 20 seconds. Spread a dollop of sour cream on the tortilla and add the fajita mixture. Top with cheddar cheese if you desire.

Serves 4 very happy people!