Are you in the mood for a hearty and flavorful steak that’s easy to cook? Look no further than this grilled flank steak recipe. Flank steak is a classic cut of beef that’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, but it’s particularly delicious when grilled. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and grill a juicy and tender flank steak that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Table of Contents
- What is Flank Steak?
- Choosing the Right Flank Steak
- Preparing the Flank Steak for Grilling
- Marinating the Flank Steak
- Grilling the Flank Steak
- Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips and Tricks for Grilling Flank Steak
- Flank Steak FAQs
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a long and flat piece of meat with distinct grains that make it easy to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. Flank steak is often used in dishes such as fajitas, stir-fries, and salads, but it’s also delicious on its own when grilled.
Choosing the Right Flank Steak
When selecting a flank steak, look for a piece that’s bright red with minimal fat and connective tissue. The meat should be firm to the touch and free of any off odors. It’s also important to choose a flank steak that’s of uniform thickness, which will help ensure even cooking.
Preparing the Flank Steak for Grilling
Before grilling, it’s important to properly prepare the flank steak. Begin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the meat using a sharp knife. Then, score the surface of the steak with shallow cuts in a diamond pattern, which will help the marinade penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
Marinating the Flank Steak
Marinating is a crucial step in preparing a delicious grilled flank steak. To make the marinade, mix together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Place the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Grilling the Flank Steak
To grill the flank steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the steak.
Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak
Once the steak is done grilling, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender. After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure maximum tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled flank steak is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides and toppings. Try serving it with grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, or top it with a flavorful chimichurri sauce for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Grilling Flank Steak
- Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
- Oil your grill grates before grilling to prevent sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature and avoid overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill – give the steak enough space to cook evenly.
- Let the steak rest before slicing to avoid losing juices and to ensure maximum tenderness.
Flank Steak FAQs
- How long should I marinate the flank steak?
- We recommend marinating the flank steak for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
- While flank steak works best for this recipe, you can use other cuts such as skirt steak or hanger steak.
- How do I know when the steak is done cooking?
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be 130°F, and for medium, it should be 140°F.
- Can I grill the steak on a gas grill or a charcoal grill?
- Yes, you can use either a gas or charcoal grill for this recipe. Just be sure to preheat the grill before cooking.
- Can I cook the steak in the oven instead of on the grill?
- While this recipe is specifically for grilled flank steak, you can also cook the steak in the oven. Just be sure to follow a recipe specifically designed for oven cooking.
Conclusion
Grilled flank steak is a classic and delicious way to enjoy this versatile cut of beef. With the right preparation and grilling techniques, you can create a juicy and tender steak that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this simple recipe and our tips and tricks, and you’ll be grilling perfect flank steak in no time.