Flank Steak
Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that can elevate any meal. Known for its rich taste and tenderness when cooked properly, this cut is perfect for grilling, stir-frying, or even slow-cooking. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or a special occasion feast, mastering the art of flank steak will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this culinary delight!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-15 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the steak) contains approximately 280 calories, 20g of protein, 18g of fat, and 1g of carbohydrates. This is a great source of protein and essential nutrients for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by marinating the flank steak. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, brown sugar, and cumin.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature.
- Season the steak with salt before cooking.
- Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain into thin strips and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin for a similar flavor profile. For a lighter option, consider using chicken or tofu, adjusting the marinade accordingly for flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Flank steak pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with chimichurri sauce for an added flavor kick or alongside grilled corn for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Flank steak can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the marinating time; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Avoid overcooking; flank steak can become tough if cooked too long.
- Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Don’t forget to rest the meat after cooking for juiciness.
- Be cautious with salt; the marinade already contains soy sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Try adding spices to the marinade for extra flavor.
- For a smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill.
- Experiment with different herbs in the marinade.
- Ensure your grill is hot for a good sear.
FAQs
What is flank steak best used for?
Flank steak is ideal for grilling, stir-frying, or slow-cooking. It’s versatile and absorbs marinades well, making it perfect for various dishes like fajitas or salads.
How do you know when flank steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Can you cook flank steak in the oven?
Yes, you can broil flank steak in the oven. Preheat your broiler, place the steak on a broiler pan, and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Is flank steak tough?
When cooked and sliced properly, flank steak can be tender. Marinating it and slicing against the grain are key to achieving the best texture.
What’s the best way to slice flank steak?
Always slice against the grain to break up the muscle fibers, ensuring a more tender bite. Aim for thin slices for the best results.
Conclusion
Flank steak is a delicious and economical cut of beef that can elevate your culinary repertoire. With the right marinade and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and pairings!
Flank Steak
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, black pepper, brown sugar, and cumin.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature.
- Season the steak with salt before cooking.
- Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side until desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for medium-rare at 130°F.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking.
- Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
