Be careful not to over-marinate the tips or they’ll get stringy. Alternatively, you can cook the tips without the mustard mixture and then toss them with it afterward.

Steak tips are no cheaper than steak; you can substitute the same amount of whole sirloin steaks, if you prefer, and cook them about 5 minutes per side instead of 2 or 3.

Serves 6.

⅓ cup Dijon mustard
¾ teaspoon chipotle chile powder
Juice of ½ lime
1½ teaspoons light brown sugar
3 pounds thinly sliced sirloin steak tips
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ bunch scallions, chopped, for garnish.

1. Place the mustard, chipotle chile powder, lime juice, and brown sugar in a large glass or ceramic bowl and stir well. Add the sirloin tips and set aside.

2. Remove the excess marinade from the steak and sprinkle with the salt and pepper.

3. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and when it is hot, add the oil. Add the tips, one piece at a time, allowing for the pan to reheat for about 10 seconds between additions. Cook until well browned, about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Divide between 6 dinner plates and garnish with the scallions. Serve immediately.

From The $50 Dinner Party: 26 Dinner Parties That Won’t Break Your Bank, Your Back, or Your Schedule (Simon & Schuster, 1998)