Description
This Mexican Discada Recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish, perfect for family gatherings. It blends a variety of meats with fresh vegetables and bold seasonings, cooked in layers to develop deep, rich flavors. Traditionally made on a disc grill, this version is easily prepared in a cast-iron skillet or deep pan. Serve with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and lime wedges for an authentic experience
Ingredients
For the Meats:
- 1 lb chuck steak or sirloin, diced
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb ground or shredded meat (turkey, chicken, or beef)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 jalapeños or serrano peppers, diced (optional for spice)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Seasonings:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Warm corn tortillas
- Fresh lime wedges
- Salsa or pico de gallo
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting the meats into small, even pieces for even cooking. Slice the bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes thinly, mince the garlic, and dice the jalapeños if using. Measure out all seasonings to have them ready for cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Preheat a large cast-iron skillet, griddle, or deep pan over medium-high heat. If needed, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Meats
Begin with the sliced sausage, cooking until lightly browned and crispy. Add the diced beef, searing it until a golden crust forms. Finally, stir in the lean protein and cook until browned on all sides. Push the meats to the side of the pan.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the tomatoes and jalapeños, allowing their juices to enhance the dish.
Step 5: Add Seasonings & Simmer
Sprinkle the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and bay leaves evenly over the dish. Pour in Worcestershire or soy sauce for a savory boost. Stir everything together, reduce the heat, and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the Discada with warm corn tortillas, lime wedges, and fresh salsa for an authentic touch.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, charro beans, or fresh guacamole. For a lighter meal, serve it with grilled vegetables. Leftovers can be used in burritos, quesadillas, or even breakfast tacos.
Pro Tips:
To enhance the smoky flavor, add a small amount of chipotle in adobo sauce while cooking. Let the meat sear properly before stirring to develop deeper flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings at the end for a balanced dish.
Flavor Variations:
For a milder version, substitute bell peppers for jalapeños. For a citrusy twist, squeeze extra lime juice over the dish before serving. To make it heartier, add black beans or grilled mushrooms for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving – 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 28g