What To Know
- Roast the steak in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Marinating the steak for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, in a flavorful marinade helps to break down the tough fibers and make it more tender.
- Yes, you can roast flank steak in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut from the abdominal muscles of the cow, offers a tantalizing culinary experience when prepared correctly. Whether you’re a seasoned carnivore or a novice cook, mastering the art of eating flank steak will elevate your dining experience to new heights.
Selecting the Perfect Flank Steak
Choose a flank steak with a deep red color and minimal marbling. The steak should be firm to the touch but not overly rigid. Look for steaks that are about 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick for optimal flavor and texture.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marinating flank steak enhances its tenderness and infuses it with a symphony of flavors. A simple marinade consisting of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices can work wonders. Marinate the steak for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator.
Grilling to Perfection
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140°F.
Slicing Against the Grain
Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. Slice the steak thinly against the grain, which breaks down the tough fibers and makes it easier to chew.
Serving Suggestions
Flank steak can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Try pairing it with a chimichurri sauce, a refreshing salsa, or a creamy horseradish sauce. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad can complement the steak perfectly.
Cooking Methods for Flank Steak
Grilling: As described above, grilling is a classic method for cooking flank steak.
Roasting: Roast the steak in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Pan-searing: Heat a large skillet over high heat. Season the steak and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned and cooked to your liking.
Accompaniments for Flank Steak
Sauces: Chimichurri sauce, salsa, horseradish sauce
Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green salad
Sides: Rice, pasta, bread
What You Need to Know
Q: What is the best way to tenderize flank steak?
A: Marinating the steak for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, in a flavorful marinade helps to break down the tough fibers and make it more tender.
Q: How long should I grill flank steak for medium-rare?
A: For a medium-rare steak, grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F.
Q: Can I cook flank steak in the oven?
A: Yes, you can roast flank steak in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with flank steak?
A: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green salad, rice, pasta, and bread all make excellent accompaniments to flank steak.
Q: How do I know when the flank steak is done cooking?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 135-140°F.
