Ingredients
Spice Blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (mild blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste (about 2 teaspoons used)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
- 1 1/2 pounds top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced thin, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the spice blend: Combine the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper thoroughly in a small bowl. This will be used to season both the steak and sweet potatoes.
- Microwave the sweet potatoes: Place the diced sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of water. Microwave for 2 minutes, stir, then microwave again for 1-2 minutes until the sweet potatoes are soft but not fully cooked. This pre-cooking step ensures even and quick sautéing later.
- Season the sweet potatoes: Add 1 teaspoon of the prepared spice blend to the warm sweet potatoes and toss them well until evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook the steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the steak cubes in the remaining spice blend to coat. Spread the steak pieces into a single layer in the hot skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes without moving to get a good sear, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the vegetables and sweet potatoes: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the diced red bell pepper, spiced sweet potatoes, and sliced green onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the red bell pepper is crisp-tender, similar to a quick stir-fry texture.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked steak cubes to the skillet. Add the chopped cilantro and gently stir everything together to combine the flavors. Turn off the heat.
- Finish with lime and garnish: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the skillet mixture and stir to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra green onions and cilantro before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute top sirloin with other cuts like ribeye or flank steak for different textures and flavors.
- The sweet potatoes should be partially cooked before sautéing to ensure they soften properly in the skillet without overcooking the steak.
- Adjust chili powder level to your preferred spice heat.
- Serve this skillet dish with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad to make it a full meal.
- Cast iron skillet is recommended for best searing results but a heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan works well too.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwest American