Rajas Food

CREAMY POBLANO PEPPER STRIPS (RAJAS)

Steps:

• Char the poblano chiles directly over the gas flame on the stove or under the broiler until blackened on all sides. Enclose in a plastic bag and let steam for about 10 minutes.
• Add the oil to a heavy large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the corn and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Set aside.
• Peel and seed the chiles. Cut the chiles into 1/4 to 1/2-inch strips (rajas) and add the strips to the onion and corn mixture and saute until the corn is tender, about 5 minutes. Add the heavy cream and Mexican crema and cook until bubbling, about for 8 minutes. Add the cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season the rajas with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and serve.

MEXICAN TAKE-OUT CARNE ASADA TACOS WITH ROASTED POBLANO RAJAS

Steps:

• To make the marinade: Combine the lime juice, garlic, salt, beer and meat in a large zip-top bag. Close the bag and shake it to coat the meat. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight.
• To make the rajas: Char the chiles directly over a gas or electric burner, under a broiler, or on a very hot outdoor grill. Place in a plastic bag for 5 minutes and gently remove the skins, seeds and stems. Slice the chiles into 1/4-inch strips.
• In a medium saute pan over medium-high heat, saute the onion in the oil and butter until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and chile strips.
• Saute for 5 minutes.
• Remove the steak from the marinade, and dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the steaks with the oil.
• Preheat the oven to 350º. Preheat a gas grill or indoor grill to high.
• Place the steak on the hottest part of the grill. Grill the steak turning once, for about 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium-rare, longer if desired.
• Let the steak rest for 10 minutes, then cut into thin strips across the grain, then into 3 to 4-inch pieces.
• Arrange the tortillas into two stacks of six. Wrap each stack in foil, and heat them in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes or until heated through and pliable. If the tortillas are dry, wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel before wrapping in foil.
• To serve, place a few slices of meat into each warm tortilla, top with rajas, pico de gallo and guacamole.