Flank Steak
Flank steak is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that can elevate any meal. Known for its rich taste and tender texture when cooked correctly, it’s perfect for grilling, stir-frying, or marinating. This recipe will guide you through the steps to prepare a succulent flank steak that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this culinary delight and transform your next dinner into a gourmet experience!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs flank steak
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme)
- Salt to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10-15 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 oz) of flank steak provides about 250 calories, 29g protein, 15g fat, 0g carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by preparing the marinade: mix garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, brown sugar, pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Season the steak with salt and additional pepper if desired.
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for optimal tenderness.
- Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have flank steak, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin for a similar texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using portobello mushrooms marinated in a similar sauce.
Serving and Pairings
Flank steak pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with chimichurri sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals. Flank steak can be frozen for up to 3 months; just slice it before freezing for easier thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not marinating long enough can lead to tougher meat.
- Overcooking the steak will make it dry.
- Skipping the resting period after cooking affects tenderness.
- Failing to slice against the grain can result in chewier pieces.
- Using too much salt before grilling can draw out moisture.
Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, let the steak marinate overnight.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Experiment with different herbs in your marinade.
- Adjust cooking time based on steak thickness.
- Always let meat rest before slicing to retain juices.
FAQs
What is flank steak best used for?
Flank steak is ideal for grilling and can also be used in stir-fries, tacos, or salads. Its robust flavor makes it a favorite for marinades and barbecues.
How do you know when flank steak is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. The steak should feel firm but slightly springy.
Can flank steak be cooked in the oven?
Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven by searing it in a hot skillet first, then transferring it to a preheated oven until desired doneness is reached.
Is flank steak tough?
Flank steak can be tough if not cooked properly. Marinating and slicing against the grain helps ensure tenderness.
How long can you marinate flank steak?
You can marinate flank steak for as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Longer marination enhances flavor and tenderness.
Conclusion
Flank steak is a delicious and versatile cut that, when cooked and seasoned properly, can become the star of any meal. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that is not only flavorful but also impressive. Enjoy this succulent flank steak with your favorite sides and make mealtime special!
Flank Steak
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs flank steak
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh herbs e.g., rosemary or thyme
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade: mix garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, brown sugar, pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Season the steak with salt and additional pepper if desired.
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for optimal tenderness.
- Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!
