A unique spice blend adds big flavor to this rustic meal of seared steak with warm lentils and vegetables on the side. We first featured this meal in 2021. Smarts: Be sure to give the steak as much time as possible to marinate. The more time the better in developing flavor.
Ras El Hanout (ingredients listed separately)
- 1 Tbsp
Oil, cooking
- 1 Tbsp + 1 Tbsp
Tamari
- 1 Tbsp
Steak, skirt
- 1 lb
(sub flank steak)
Warm Lentils with Roasted Carrots and Parsnips:
Carrots
- 1 lb
, diced
Parsnips
- 1 lb
, diced
Cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup
, chopped
Oil, cooking
- 1 1/2 Tbsp
Oil, olive
- 1 Tbsp
Ras El Hanout (ingredients listed separately)
- 1 tsp
Lentils, cooked
- 2 1/2 cups
(use pre-cooked lentils or if cooking from dried, use half the amount of dried and prepare according to package directions)
Vinegar, sherry
- 1 Tbsp
(sub apple cider vinegar)
Prep
Make Ras El Hanout - (If prepping right before cooking, get oven heating first.) Combine all ingredients for Ras El Hanout. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Marinate steak - In a shallow baking dish or bowl, whisk together Ras El Hanout (portion for steak), cooking oil (first portion for steak), and Tamari. Add steak, turning to coat. Tenderize steak with a fork. Marinate for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 days. (Can be done 2 days ahead)
Carrots / Parsnips - Prep as directed and combine. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Toss carrots and parsnips with cooking oil (portion for warm lentils) and some salt and pepper. Spread out on a sheet pan. Roast until tender, stirring occasionally, 15 to 25 minutes (depending on size).
While vegetables roast, heat a skillet or grill pan with cooking oil (second portion for steak) over medium heat. Add steak and sear on both sides until cooked to your liking. Medium-rare: 130F / 54C degrees (~3 minutes); Medium: 140F / 60C degrees (~6 minutes); Well-done: 160F / 71C degrees (~10 minutes).
Transfer steak to a cutting board and let it rest, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine olive oil, Ras El Hanout (portion for lentils), and lentils in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high, stirring halfway through, until warm 1 to 3 minutes.
Combine warm lentils with vinegar, roasted vegetables, and cilantro.