Gourmet Grilling: Elevate Your Flank Steak with Expert Techniques on a Blackstone Griddle

Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, is a popular choice for grilling and searing. When cooked properly on a Blackstone griddle, flank steak becomes tender and juicy, with a delicious charred exterior. This blog post will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook flank steak on a Blackstone griddle, ensuring a successful and mouthwatering meal.

Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

To get started, you will need the following:

• Flank steak
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Blackstone griddle
• Spatula
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Preparing the Flank Steak

1. Trim the Fat: Remove any excess fat from the flank steak using a sharp knife. This will prevent flare-ups on the griddle and promote even cooking.
2. Marinate (Optional): To enhance flavor, you can marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
3. Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, bring the flank steak to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the steak to cook more evenly.

Seasoning and Grilling

1. Season Liberally: Season the flank steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 450-500°F).
3. Grill the Steak: Place the flank steak on the preheated griddle and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches the desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 135°F; for medium, 145°F; and for medium-well, 155°F.
4. Flip and Grill: Use tongs to flip the steak and continue grilling until it reaches the desired doneness.

Resting and Slicing

1. Rest the Steak: After grilling, remove the steak from the griddle and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
2. Slice Against the Grain: Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will make the steak easier to chew and enjoy.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Flank steak is a lean cut of meat, so it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Otherwise, it will become tough and chewy.
• Use a Thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the steak is cooked to the desired doneness.
• Let It Rest: Resting the steak before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
• Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Pair your grilled flank steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Health Benefits of Flank Steak

Flank steak is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is a good source of:

• Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Iron: Helps carry oxygen throughout the body.
• Zinc: Boosts the immune system and supports wound healing.
• B Vitamins: Support energy metabolism and brain function.

Creative Ways to Cook Flank Steak on Blackstone Griddle

In addition to the traditional grilling method, here are some creative ways to cook flank steak on a Blackstone griddle:

• Flank Steak Tacos: Season the flank steak with Mexican spices and grill it until cooked to the desired doneness. Slice the steak and serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
• Flank Steak Stir-Fry: Cut the flank steak into thin strips and marinate in a flavorful Asian sauce. Grill the steak strips on the griddle until cooked through and toss with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
• Flank Steak Pizza: Grill the flank steak and thinly slice it. Top a pre-made pizza crust with the steak, your favorite toppings, and cheese. Grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What You Need to Know

1. What is the best way to tenderize flank steak?

• Marinating the steak in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and acidic ingredients (such as lemon juice or vinegar) can help tenderize it.

2. Can I cook flank steak on a cold Blackstone griddle?

• No, it is important to preheat the griddle to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it.

3. How long should I let the steak rest before slicing?

• For optimal juiciness, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.