Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich A Flavourful Messy Delight

I am often heard to credit this house as the Home of the Messy Sandwich and when you think of sandwiches, I mean the ones that really do stand out for their explosion of flavour and mouth watering textures. The Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich is one such creation that bursts with deliciousness whilst challenging you to keep your top clean as you eat it! Imagine succulent steak, colourful veggies, and creamy toppings all packed into a soft ciabatta roll. If you love bold flavours and hearty meals, this sandwich is calling your name!

What is Picanha Steak?

Picanha steak is a celebrated cut in Brazil. This flavourful cut comes from the top of the rump and is known for its tenderness. Unlike more common cuts like ribeye or sirloin, Picanha is less familiar but equally delicious. For instance, it typically contains about 20% fat, which plays a crucial role in delivering that rich, juicy taste. I found Picanha during my grocery shopping at an online supermarket starting with "O." If you visit your local butcher, you might ask if they can source it for you. It's a relatively inexpensive cut of steak, cheaper than rib eye.

The Tenderness Factor

Picanha’s tenderness may come as a pleasant surprise. It can rival cuts like ribeye a, primarily due to its fat cap that enhances flavour during cooking. When properly grilled, Picanha steak nearly melts in your mouth. My experience cooking Picanha resulted in steaks that were juicy and flavourful, emphasizing why this cut deserves more recognition.

Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich - The Recipe

To prepare this Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich, you will need

Serves 2 greedy sandwiches, or 3 more respectable sandwiches!

Ingredients:

2 x 160g Picanha Steaks

Olive oil

Sea salt for seasoning

1 Packet of Fajita seasoning

2 Peppers (1 red, 1 yellow) cut into chunky strips

1 Red Onion, cut into thin wedges

Handful of fresh coriander, roughly chopped

Juice of 1 lime

1 Ciabatta Loaf

2 to 3 tbsp sour cream and chives

1 handful of grated Monterey Jack cheese, or cheddar

handful of lettuce leaves

Method

Preparing the Steak

Get that griddle or skillet searing hot.

Let’s get cooking! I started by rubbing the Picanha steaks with olive oil, sea salt, and some of the fajita seasoning. This mix of spices provides not just flavour but robust heat.

I first flash seared the fat cap in the pan to render some of that aromatic fat, adding an even richer taste to the meat. Then cook the steaks for just two to three minutes per side, depending on their thickness, ensuring the steaks remain rare and dripping with juices. After cooking, resting the meat for five to ten minutes allows the juices to redistribute fully, making the first bite even more flavourful.

Sautéing the Veggies

While the steak rests, it’s time to sauté some vibrant veggies. Using the same pan adds an extra layer of flavour. I tossed in one sliced onion and two bell peppers (one red, one yellow), giving them a good coating of oil and a sprinkle of the remaining fajita seasoning.

Cooking them until they were soft made their natural sweetness shine through, perfectly balancing the savoury notes of the steak. A handful of chopped coriander and the juice of one lime not only adds freshness but also brightens every delicious bite.

Assembling the Sandwich

Now for the fun part! I sliced a ciabatta roll, the perfect vessel for this flavour explosion.

1. On one side of the roll, I spread a hearty layer of sour cream mixed with chopped chives. This creamy base brings an additional richness that complements the spicy steak.

2. I sprinkled a generous handful of Monterey Jack cheese over the sour cream. Cheddar works wonderfully too, if you prefer!

   
   

Next came the sliced Picanha steak, which I sliced diagonally across the grain to ensure it tenderness, followed by the sautéed onions and peppers. To amp up the crunch factor, I added some fresh salad leaves to the mix. Finishing touches included a sprinkle of grated cheese and a drizzle of the savoury pan juices over the top. The result is a sandwich that’s not just a meal but a satisfyingly messy delight!

The Messy Reality

Let's be honest—this sandwich isn’t delicate. It's messy, stuffed, and oh-so-delicious! As you take your first bite, the flavours meld into a perfect harmony. Picture the kick from the fajita seasoning dancing with the rich steak and the vibrant veggies. It's an unforgettable blend guaranteed to leave your taste buds tingling!

Enjoying Your Creation

Now that your Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich is assembled, it’s time to dig in! Be sure to keep napkins handy—this is a delightfully messy feast.

Whether it's lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack, this sandwich satisfies any craving. Pair it with crispy fries or a fresh salad. For a flavourful twist, consider serving a side of guacamole or tangy salsa.

Happy eating!