Wrap it UP!

With red meat, that is. I'm often asked how I create my recipes. The truth is, there isn't really one way; sometimes by theme, sometimes by menu needs and sometimes... well, because it's the ingredients I have on hand. The later reason can be the most enjoyable to create with; and this is just one story that became a recipe ...

Once on the road, while taping my TV series, when we were between shows; some of my crew wanted a snack. There is nothing like a hungry crew staring at you to give you motivation. Upon looking at the fresh ingredients we had on hand, I found a few chipotle peppers. I started from there, and the warm smokey flavor made it a hit with my crowd. I’m sure it will satisfy yours too.

George’s Sliced Beef Wraps
Recipe by George Hirsch | chefgeorgehirsch.com
Makes 10 wraps

2 pounds sirloin steak 2-thick, or flank or hanger
 
For marinade:
2 chipotle (smoked-dried jalapeño) peppers, or 2 teaspoons powder
1 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup raisins
1 head caramelized garlic
1 Tablespoon wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Tablespoon cilantro
Fresh ground black pepper

Place pineapple juice, raisins, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, cilantro, black pepper and chipotle peppers in food processor and blend well. Pour blended marinade over sirloin and marinate 24-48 hours, refrigerate.

Remove meat from refrigerator one half hour prior to cooking.

Preheat a cast iron pan, grill pan, or outdoor grill to high. 

Remove meat from marinade and grill on high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, brushing with chipotle marinade while cooking.  Lower heat to medium and allow to cook slowly to desired doneness. 

Remove from grill and allow meat to rest 3-4 minutes before slicing. Slice meat thinly against the grain.

For wraps:
1 cup black beans, cooked or canned 
1 cup Tomatillo Sauce
3 Tablespoons cilantro, coarse chopped
10 flour tortillas

Wraps may be served warm or cold. To serve warm wraps, heat tortillas quickly on grill or a griddle pan. Top warm tortillas with sliced sirloin, warm beans, cilantro and sauce. Wrap tortillas over and serve.

Optional toppings may include:
sour cream
sliced avocados
grilled onions & peppers