Chipotle Steak with Balsamic Reduction, Italian Veggies and Baby Potatoes

We did cook the Chipotle Steak with Balsamic Reduction, Italian Veggies and Baby Potatoes for night number 2.  It turned out pretty good.  It is still taking a while longer than estimated times given in the book so we didn't sit down for dinner until a little after 7pm.  Ryan was the cook's assistant this night and he did a great job.  He decided English cucumbers are actually a little better, lacking the extra seeds.  He still wasn't interested in the bell peppers or tomatoes that when in the tossed veggies with the balsamic vinegrette.  The most interesting part of the meal was making the balsamic reduction for the steak.  It had ginger, garlic, red onions, balsamic vinegar and maple syrup... and it looked black.  He didn't think he'd use any since he was really looking forward to the steak.

Scott was in charge of working with Ryan on the steak and demonstrating usage of the Big Green Egg smoker/bbq.  This night the whole crew got involved with the meal,...very cool.  While they were cooking the steak, I continued the reduction and added some more syrup hoping the reduction would be worthy of the steak.  I was beginning to have my doubts too!

 

As it turned out, the reduction was a hit...partly because it was so unusual and because it conjured nicknames suited to its black color.  The sauce did a great job of balancing the heat from the chipotle seasoning rub on the steak.  The veggies were interesting but maybe we'd saute them next time.  The potatoes were well cooked and used to dip in the sauce too.  Overall score: 7.625.  And, yes, I had seconds of the steak.

Tonight (actually since last night), we(actually Scott) smoked a pork butt to make pulled pork sandwiches for a great group of young adults who are volunteering for Habitat for Humanity during their Spring Break.  Oh, the college days...so wish I studied less and enjoyed my youth more. ;) Tomorrow night we are back on the Rushed Kitchen dinner plan.  Not sure which it'll be:

• Sweet Indian Chicken with Rice and Spinach Salad,
• Dry Ribs with Couscous and Broccoli, or
• Soft or Hard Shell tacos with Toppings.

BTW: The little bit of chipotle steak that was leftover and the remaining potatoes were great with some scrambled eggs and bacon bits eaten with flour tortillas. :)