What To Know
- Whether you choose to oven-cook, grill, pan-sear, or sous vide, flank steak is a versatile cut that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
- So next time you’re looking for a flavorful and affordable steak option, don’t hesitate to give oven-cooked flank steak a try.
- Cook the flank steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, is often associated with grilling. However, did you know that you can also achieve mouthwatering results by cooking it in the oven? This blog post will explore everything you need to know about oven-cooking flank steak, from choosing the right steak to the perfect cooking technique.
Choosing the Right Flank Steak
The first step to a successful oven-cooked flank steak is selecting a high-quality cut. Look for a steak with a deep red color and minimal marbling. The meat should be firm to the touch and have a thin layer of fat on the edges.
Preparing the Flank Steak
Before cooking, it’s essential to prepare the flank steak properly. Remove it from the refrigerator about an hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your favorite spice blend.
Marinating the Flank Steak (Optional)
Marinating the flank steak is an optional but recommended step. Marinating helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. You can use a simple marinade made with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 24 hours.
Cooking the Flank Steak in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the flank steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow the air to circulate around the steak, resulting in even cooking.
Roast the steak for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For rare, aim for 125°F (52°C); for medium-rare, 130°F (54°C); for medium, 135°F (57°C); and for medium-well, 140°F (60°C).
Resting the Flank Steak
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Slicing the Flank Steak
Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure tenderness and make the steak easier to eat.
Serving the Flank Steak
Oven-cooked flank steak can be served with a variety of sides. Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also add a flavorful sauce or chimichurri to enhance the taste.
Tips for Oven-Cooking Flank Steak
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to the desired doneness.
- Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough.
- Let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve the steak with your favorite sides and sauces.
Alternatives to Oven-Cooking Flank Steak
While oven-cooking is a great method, there are other ways to cook flank steak:
- Grilling: Grill the steak over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
- Pan-Searing: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
- Sous Vide: Season the steak and vacuum seal it in a plastic bag. Cook in a sous vide water bath at 130°F (54°C) for 2-3 hours, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
Final Note: The Versatility of Flank Steak
As you can see, there are numerous ways to cook flank steak, and oven-cooking is just one of them. Whether you choose to oven-cook, grill, pan-sear, or sous vide, flank steak is a versatile cut that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. So next time you’re looking for a flavorful and affordable steak option, don’t hesitate to give oven-cooked flank steak a try!
Questions You May Have
Q: Can you cook flank steak in the oven without marinating it?
A: Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven without marinating it. However, marinating helps tenderize the meat and add flavor.
Q: How long should I cook flank steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C)?
A: Cook the flank steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Q: What is the best way to slice flank steak?
A: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with oven-cooked flank steak?
A: Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad with your oven-cooked flank steak.
Q: Can I cook flank steak in the oven from frozen?
A: Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven from frozen. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50%.
