Lomo Saltado Recipe (With Toasted Ground Cumin, Separate Fries, and Rice)

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• For the Beef Marinade:
  • 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin, sliced into strips
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted and ground
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Stir-Fry:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced into wedges
  • 1-2 fresh aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili) or substitute with a yellow bell pepper and a dash of hot sauce (optional), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or white vinegar
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• For the French Fries:
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries (or use frozen French fries for convenience)
  • Oil for frying
• To Serve:
  • Cooked white rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cumin and Marinate the Beef:
   • Toast the cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until aromatic, then grind them in a pestle and mortar. Mix the ground cumin with salt and black pepper, then coat the beef strips in this mixture.
2. Prepare the French Fries:
   • If using fresh potatoes, heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer and fry the potato slices until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside. If using frozen fries, prepare according to package instructions.
3. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear it for 2-3 minutes until browned, then remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   • Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet, then add the red onion, aji amarillo (if using), and stir-fry until the onions start to soften.
   • Add the tomatoes, seared beef, and red wine vinegar. Stir-fry everything for another 2-3 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften but still hold their shape.
5. Plate the Lomo Saltado:
   • Serve the stir-fried beef and vegetables on a plate, with the French fries arranged separately on the side and a portion of white rice.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!