Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of meat that’s perfect for grilling, stir-frying, or slow-cooking. This recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve tender, juicy flank steak, full of rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp paprika
– Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or parsley)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-15 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of flank steak (approximately 3.5 oz) contains about 250 calories, 22g of protein, 18g of fat, and 0g of carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by marinating the flank steak. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, black pepper, salt, and paprika.
2. Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
6. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
7. Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
8. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
9. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes to retain juices.
10. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use lime juice instead of red wine vinegar for a zesty twist. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth in place of soy sauce.
Serving and Pairings
Flank steak can be served with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with chimichurri sauce or a tangy salsa for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the steak and warm it in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. Flank steak can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not marinating long enough for flavor penetration.
- Overcooking the steak, leading to toughness.
- Failing to slice against the grain, which makes the meat chewy.
- Using a grill that’s not hot enough.
- Skipping the resting period after cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Always let your meat rest before slicing.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Experiment with different marinades for varied flavors.
- Consider using a meat tenderizer for extra tenderness.
- Keep an eye on the grill temperature for even cooking.
FAQs
What is flank steak best used for?
Flank steak is ideal for grilling, stir-frying, and slow-cooking. Its rich flavor makes it perfect for fajitas, salads, and sandwiches.
How do you know when flank steak is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for 130°F, and for medium, aim for 140°F.
Can flank steak be cooked in the oven?
Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven. Sear it in a hot skillet, then transfer it to an oven preheated to 400°F until it reaches your desired doneness.
Is flank steak tender?
Flank steak can be tender if cooked correctly. Marinating and slicing against the grain are key to achieving tenderness.
How should I store leftover flank steak?
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Flank steak is not only a delicious and versatile dish but also a great choice for any occasion. With its rich flavor and tender texture, following this recipe will ensure you create a meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and sides to make it your own!
Flank Steak
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Start by marinating the flank steak with soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, pepper, salt, and paprika.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
- Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve garnished with fresh herbs.
