El Yucateco Bistec Spice Paste – Marinade for Meat, 100g

This Mexican spice paste marinates meat with a blend of chilies and spices typical of Mexican steak dishes. The paste adheres to the meat, is absorbed as it marinates, and forms a flavorful crust when fried or grilled.

Application

The paste works for beef, pork, and chicken. Rub it directly into the raw meat – about one teaspoon per 200g of meat. After at least 30 minutes of marinating, the meat can be pan-fried or grilled. Marinating overnight will infuse the meat with even more flavor.

The paste will burn slightly when grilled and form dark spots. This is normal and contributes to the roasted flavor. Fry it in a pan over medium heat to prevent the spices from becoming bitter.

Taste and spiciness

The paste tastes of smoked chilies, garlic, and a spice blend reminiscent of cumin and pepper. The heat level is medium – noticeable, but not painful. Those sensitive to chili should start with a smaller amount of paste.

The consistency is thick to pasty, not liquid like a sauce. This makes it practical for rubbing in, but less suitable as a table sauce.

Alternatives to meat

Firm vegetables such as eggplant, mushrooms, or cauliflower can also be marinated with it. Tofu or tempeh absorb the spices if they are lightly fried beforehand and then coated with the paste.

A teaspoon of the paste can be cooked with bean dishes or chili con carne. It then partially replaces salt and other spices.

Storage and quantity

Once opened, the tube should be refrigerated. The 100g is sufficient for approximately 1kg of meat when used normally. Those who prefer a stronger seasoning will use it up more quickly.

The paste is made in Mexico. El Yucateco has been producing chili sauces and spice pastes since the 1960s. The ingredient list is short: chilies, spices, salt, preservatives.

What it is suitable for

Anyone wanting to prepare tacos, fajitas, or grilled meat Mexican-style will find a ready-made spice mix here. It saves time compared to mixing cumin, chipotle, garlic, and salt yourself.

This paste is not an all-purpose seasoning, but is specifically intended for grilled or roasted meat. It doesn't work for salsas or as a dip – it's too thick and concentrated for that.

Ingredients: Drinking water, corn flour, spices, iodized table salt, acidity regulator (acetic acid), preservative (potassium sorbate)