Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen one evening, the aromatic whispers of chipotle and cocoa danced through the air, promising a dinner that would break the mundane cycle of weeknight meals. This Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers transforms everyday dining into an extraordinary experience, boasting a quick prep time that allows for effortless entertaining. The savory cocoa-chipotle seasoning enhances the steak while the blistered shishito peppers provide a delightful crunch, making this dish a true showstopper. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special, this recipe is gluten-free and low-carb, ensuring everyone can indulge without guilt. Are you ready to elevate your steak game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure together! Why is This Steak So Special? Bold flavors come to life with the enriching cocoa-chipotle seasoning, transforming ordinary steaks into a culinary masterpiece. Easy preparation means you’ll have this dish on the table in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests. Versatile options allow you to customize seasoning to suit your palate—try adding brown sugar for a sweet twist! Mouthwatering textures combine juicy, tender steak with the crunchy burst of blistered shishito peppers, creating a delightful contrast. Whether served alongside a fresh Salad Grilled Vegetables or your favorite sides, it’s bound to impress! Cocoa Crusted Steak Ingredients For the Steak Steaks (4 x 6 oz) – Choose strip loin, rib eye, or tenderloin for the best tenderness. Oil – Use olive or vegetable oil for cooking; butter or ghee can add richness. Cocoa Chipotle Seasoning – This unique blend enhances the steak’s umami while the cocoa enriches its flavor; customize with a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. For the Shishito Peppers Shishito Peppers (1 lb) – These mild peppers bring a playful crunch; substitute with other mild peppers if needed. Salt – A sprinkle after cooking enhances the natural flavor of the peppers. This Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers is sure to elevate your dining experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers Step 1: Prepare the Skillet Begin by placing a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering, which should take about 2-3 minutes, indicating it’s hot enough for searing. This step is crucial as you want a perfect crust on your Cocoa Crusted Steak. Step 2: Season the Steaks While the skillet heats up, generously coat both sides of each steak with the cocoa chipotle seasoning. Make sure to massage the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor. Let the seasoned steaks sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the steak to soften slightly. Step 3: Sear the Steaks Once the skillet is ready, carefully place the seasoned steaks into the hot oil. Sear each side for about 2-4 minutes, adjusting the time according to your desired doneness; a rich brown crust should form. Use tongs to flip the steaks, ensuring they don’t stick to the pan. Step 4: Rest the Steaks After the steaks reach your preferred level of doneness, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy Cocoa Crusted Steak. Step 5: Blister the Shishito Peppers In the same skillet, add the shishito peppers and season lightly with salt. Sear for about 5 minutes, tossing them occasionally, until they’re blistered on all sides and appear tender. This cooking method retains their vibrant flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your plate. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy After the shishito peppers are done, slice the rested steaks if desired or serve them whole. Plate them alongside the blistered peppers for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Enjoy your Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers, savoring the rich flavors and contrasting textures! What to Serve with Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers A harmonious meal deserves sides that elevate the rich flavors of steak and the playful crunch of peppers. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the steak’s savory crust. A drizzle of gravy enhances the overall experience. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: These tender spears add a fresh, earthy flavor complementing the cocoa and chipotle. Their crisp-tender bite brings balance to your plate. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a burst of color and freshness, counteracting the richness of the steak. Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes and lime wakes up the palate, pairing perfectly with the savory notes of the steak, while adding a luscious texture. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweetness from the corn enhances the dish, and its charred flavor adds an appealing smokiness that harmonizes with the cocoa-chipotle seasoning. Chilled White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the meal, cutting the richness and providing a refreshing sip between bites of the savory steak. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse echoes the cocoa in the steak, creating a delightful full-circle dining experience that tantalizes the senses. How to Store and Freeze Cocoa Crusted Steak Fridge: Store leftover Cocoa Crusted Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steak in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date before freezing. Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the steak. Shishito Peppers: For any leftover blistered shishito peppers, store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan to revive their crunch before serving. Make Ahead Options These Cocoa Crusted Steaks with Shishito Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the steaks with the cocoa chipotle mix up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Just refrigerate them covered to maintain freshness and prevent any browning. The shishito peppers can also be prepped; simply wash and trim them ahead of time, storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook the steaks straight from the fridge for optimal juiciness and sear the peppers in the same skillet for a quick, vibrant finish. This way, you’ll have a delicious, elevated meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Cocoa Crusted Steak Resting Time Matters: Allow steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking; this retains the juices, ensuring a tender and juicy Cocoa Crusted Steak. Sear with Confidence: Preheat your skillet until shimmering before adding steaks; this crucial step leads to a beautifully caramelized crust. Season Generously: Don’t shy away from generous seasoning; a well-seasoned steak enhances flavor and elevates your Cocoa Crusted Steak experience. Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer; medium-rare should read 130°F for delicious results. Swap Peppers Wisely: If shishito peppers are not available, opt for other mild varieties like Poblano or Anaheim for a similar flavor and texture. Cocoa Crusted Steak Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Cocoa Crusted Steak with all sorts of delightful twists! Smoked Paprika: Swap cocoa powder for smoked paprika to create a different flavor profile that adds a subtle smoky note. Consider how delicious the paprika can complement the savory elements of the dish while maintaining its heartiness. Balsamic Drizzle: Enhance the dish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction, introducing a sweet and tangy vibe to your steak. The organic sweetness of balsamic creates an extraordinary taste journey that perfectly balances with the cocoa seasoning. Citrus Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest over the finished steaks for a refreshing burst of brightness. This vibrant touch juxtaposes the rich chocolate flavor, elevating it into something truly memorable! Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the blistered shishito peppers for a creamy richness. The salty, tangy cheese enhances the mild peppers, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s utterly indulgent! Garlic-infused Oil: Infuse your cooking oil with garlic before sautéing the steak for a fragrant, aromatic kick. This makes every bite even more delightful, adding a layer of depth that captures your senses in every mouthful. Hearty Greens: Serve alongside a sauté of spinach or kale for a nutritious and vibrant meal that enhances the dish. The leafy greens balance the richness of the steak, completing your plate with brilliant color and health benefits. Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or diced jalapeños in your shishito peppers for an extra level of heat. Defy monotony with a dash of excitement, adding more passion and zest to your culinary creation! These variations make it easy to tailor your meal, whether you desire something spicier, creamier, or simply different in flavor. If you’re in the mood for some other impressive dishes, how about trying out a succulent Shrimp Steak Alfredo or a plate of delicious Grilled Lime Salmon? Let your taste buds explore new horizons! Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best steaks for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting steaks, look for cuts known for their tenderness, such as strip loin, rib eye, or tenderloin. These cuts will provide a juicy and flavorful experience. Make sure they have a nice marbling, which adds flavor and helps keep the steak moist during cooking. How long can I store leftover Cocoa Crusted Steak in the fridge? You can store the leftover steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, let it cool completely before sealing. This way, it won’t get soggy from condensation, and you’ll still enjoy all of its delicious flavors when reheated! Can I freeze the Cocoa Crusted Steak? How should I do it? Yes, you can freeze the steak! Place it in an airtight freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. Remember to label the bag with the date so you can keep track. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet or on the stove for the best results. What if my shishito peppers are too spicy? Don’t worry! If you find that your shishito peppers have a bit more heat than expected, try serving them with a sprinkle of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon to balance the flavors. Alternatively, you can mix them with a drizzle of olive oil or a cooling avocado dip to help counteract the spiciness. Any dietary considerations for Cocoa Crusted Steak? Yes! This Cocoa Crusted Steak is gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for various dietary needs. However, if you have allergies, be cautious with the seasoning ingredients, particularly if you choose to customize it with additional spices. Always check labels and ensure the ingredients fit your dietary restrictions. What should I do if my steak isn’t getting a good sear? If your steak isn’t searing well, check that your skillet is properly preheated before adding the steaks. The oil should be shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; searing too many steaks at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, preventing that beautiful crust from forming. Give each steak enough space for optimal searing! Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers for a Flavor Boost This Cocoa Crusted Steak with Shishito Peppers transforms everyday dining into an extraordinary experience, offering a flavor boost that's gluten-free and low-carb. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak4 pieces Steaks (6 oz each) Choose strip loin, rib eye, or tenderloin for the best tenderness.1 tablespoon Oil Use olive or vegetable oil for cooking; butter or ghee can add richness.1 tablespoon Cocoa Chipotle Seasoning This unique blend enhances the steak's umami.For the Shishito Peppers1 lb Shishito Peppers These mild peppers bring a playful crunch.to taste Salt A sprinkle after cooking enhances the natural flavor of the peppers. Equipment Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering, which should take about 2-3 minutes.Season the Steaks: Generously coat both sides of each steak with the cocoa chipotle seasoning. Let the seasoned steaks sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.Sear the Steaks: Place the seasoned steaks into the hot oil. Sear each side for about 2-4 minutes, adjusting the time according to your desired doneness.Rest the Steaks: After the steaks reach your preferred level of doneness, remove them from the skillet and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for at least 5 minutes.Blister the Shishito Peppers: In the same skillet, add the shishito peppers and season lightly with salt. Sear for about 5 minutes, tossing occasionally.Serve and Enjoy: Slice the rested steaks if desired or serve them whole. Plate alongside the blistered peppers. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg NotesResting time matters for juicy steaks. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness and season generously for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
