Introduction
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, cooking flank steak can be a bit challenging because it tends to be tougher than other cuts of beef. The good news is that with the right techniques and preparation, you can turn your flank steak into a delicious and juicy meal that your whole family will love. In this article, we’ll explore some tips, marinades, keto-friendly recipes, reverse-searing, and side dishes that will help you cook flank steak to perfection.
Ten Tips for Grilling Flank Steak
Grilling is one of the best ways to cook flank steak since it adds a smoky and charred flavor to the meat. Here are some tips that will help you grill your flank steak to perfection:
Tip 1: Choosing the right cut of flank steak
Look for a flank steak that is at least 1 inch thick and has some marbling on it. Make sure to avoid buying pre-packaged flank steak as it can be less fresh and might not have enough marbling.
Tip 2: Preparing the steak for grilling
Before grilling, make sure to remove any excess fat or silverskin from the steak. Using a meat mallet, tenderize the steak, which helps to break down the muscle fibers and make it more tender.
Tip 3: Seasoning the steak properly
Flank steak can be seasoned with a variety of different spices and herbs, but salt and pepper are the basics that you should apply generously. You can also use a dry rub or a wet marinade to add more flavor.
Tip 4: Preheating the grill
Preheat your grill to high heat for at least 10-15 minutes before you start grilling. This will ensure that the grill grates are heated enough to sear the meat and prevent sticking.
Tip 5: Setting up the grill for direct heat
Flank steak cooks best when it’s grilled over direct heat. Make sure one side of the grill is set to high heat and the other side is set to medium heat.
Tip 6: Placing the steak on the grill
Place the steak on the hottest part of the grill, usually the side set to high heat, for about 4-5 minutes per side until it has a nice char and grill marks.
Tip 7: Flipping the steak only once
To ensure that your steak is properly cooked, only flip it once. This helps to develop a good crust on the exterior of the steak, seal in the juices and flavor, and prevent it from becoming overcooked.
Tip 8: Checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Cook the flank steak to an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare or 135°F for medium. Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise as the steak rests, so remove it from the grill a few degrees below your desired temperature.
Tip 9: Resting the steak before slicing it
After cooking, let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
Tip 10: Slicing the steak against the grain
To ensure that your steak is tender, always slice it against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the natural lines of the meat, which helps to break up the muscle fibers and make it easier to chew.
The Best Marinades for Flank Steak
Marinades are a great way to add flavor and tenderness to your flank steak. Here are five delicious marinades to try:
Marinade 1: Classic garlic and herb marinade
Mix together some garlic, fresh oregano, thyme, olive oil, and red wine vinegar to create a tasty marinade. Make sure to rub the marinade all over your flank steak and let it marinate for at least 2 hours.
Marinade 2: Spicy Asian-inspired marinade
Combine minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to make a zesty marinade for a flank steak. Let it marinade for at least an hour before grilling.
Marinade 3: Tangy citrus marinade
Mix together some orange juice, lime juice, honey, dijon mustard, and garlic to create a tangy marinade. Let the flank steak marinate in the mixture for 4-6 hours before grilling.
Marinade 4: Mexican-inspired chipotle marinade
Combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, honey, and garlic to make a spicy and flavorful marinade. Let the steak marinate for at least 2 hours before grilling.
Marinade 5: Sweet and savory mustard-based marinade
Mix together whole grain mustard, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice to create a delicious marinade. Let the steak marinate for at least 2 hours before grilling.
Keto-Friendly Flank Steak Recipes
If you’re following a keto diet, or just looking for low-carb options, you’re in luck! Here are five flank steak recipes that are keto-friendly:
Recipe 1: Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Grill a marinated flank steak until medium-rare and serve with a tangy and flavorful chimichurri sauce made with fresh herbs and garlic.
Recipe 2: Flank Steak Fajitas with Low-Carb Tortillas
Sauté onions and peppers with a sliced flank steak and serve on top of keto-friendly low-carb tortillas, garnished with avocado and sour cream.
Recipe 3: Flank Steak Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
Grill a seasoned flank steak and serve on top of a bed of mixed greens and avocado. Top it off with a tangy lime dressing made with olive oil, lime juice, and honey.
Recipe 4: Grilled Flank Steak with Roasted Garlic Butter
Grill a marinated flank steak until medium-rare and serve with delicious roasted garlic butter on top, made with butter, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs.
Recipe 5: Flank Steak Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Slice a flank steak into thin strips and stir-fry with your favorite low-carb veggies, such as broccoli, peppers, and onions. Serve over cauliflower rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
Why Reverse-Searing Your Flank Steak is Worth a Try
Reverse-searing is a technique that involves cooking the steak low and slow in the oven first and then searing it in the hot pan to get a nice crust on the exterior. Here’s why you should give it a try:
What is reverse-searing?
Reverse-searing involves baking your flank steak in the oven at a low temperature until it reaches your desired internal temperature, then searing it for a brief period in a hot pan to crisp up the exterior.
Why is it a game-changer for cooking flank steak?
Reverse-searing is game-changing since it results in a more evenly cooked steak with a great crust on the outside. By slowly cooking the steak first, it helps to break down the collagen and make the steak more tender.
Step-by-step instructions for reverse-searing your steak
First, preheat your oven to 275°F. Season your flank steak with salt and pepper, and a little olive oil, if desired. Place the steak on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 120°F.
Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, you can preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once the steak has rested, sear it in the hot pan for about 1-2 minutes per side or until it has a nice crust. Slice and serve with your favorite side dish!
Top Seven Side Dishes That Go Well with Flank Steak
Here are seven side dishes that pair perfectly with flank steak:
Side dish 1: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Toss asparagus in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and grill until tender. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Side dish 2: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roast some garlic and mix it into mashed potatoes for a delicious and flavorful side dish that complements the rich flavor of the steak.
Side dish 3: Grilled Summer Squash with Balsamic Glaze
Marinate summer squash in olive oil and balsamic vinegar and grill until tender. Drizzle with more balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Side dish 4: Arugula Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Goat Cheese
Toss arugula, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled goat cheese together with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful side dish.
Side dish 5: Creamy Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar
Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and apple cider vinegar with a creamy dressing for a tangy and crunchy side dish.
Side dish 6: Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Thyme and Sea Salt
Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, fresh thyme, and sea salt. Roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Side dish 7: Grilled Corn on the Cob with Lime Butter
Grill ears of corn until charred and tender, brush them with butter flavored with fresh lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro for a delicious and summery side dish.
A Beginner’s Guide to Cooking Flank Steak
If you’re a beginner to cooking steak, don’t worry! Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking flank steak to perfection:
Step 1: Choose the right cut of flank steak
Select a cut of flank steak that is at least 1 inch thick and has some marbling on it.
Step 2: Prepare the steak for cooking
Remove any excess fat or silverskin from the steak. Tenderize the steak using a meat mallet. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Step 3: Choose a cooking method
There are several different methods for cooking flank steak, including grilling, broiling, pan-searing, and baking. Choose a method that you’re comfortable with and that will work best for your dish.
Step 4: Cook the steak to the desired temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak while cooking. Remove the steak from heat when it reaches your desired internal temperature.
Step 5: Rest the steak before slicing it
Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender.
Step 6: Serve the steak with a complementary side dish
Pair the flank steak with your favorite side dish, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a colorful salad.
Conclusion
Flank steak may seem challenging to cook, but with these tips, marinades, keto-friendly recipes, reverse-searing options, side dishes, and step-by-step cooking guide, you can now create mouthwatering dishes that your family and friends will surely enjoy.
