What To Know
- Marinate the steak in a solution of vinegar, lemon juice, or wine for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
- Can I grill skirt steak on a gas or charcoal grill.
Skirt steak, a flavorful and versatile cut, can sometimes be tough and chewy. But with the right techniques, you can transform this budget-friendly cut into a mouthwatering delicacy. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make skirt steak very tender:
Choosing the Right Steak
- Look for marbling: Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the steak. These fat pockets help keep the meat moist and tender during cooking.
- Thickness: Aim for a skirt steak that is 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Thinner steaks cook too quickly and become tough, while thicker steaks may not cook evenly.
- Freshness: Always choose fresh skirt steak that is firm to the touch and has no signs of spoilage.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating the steak helps tenderize it by breaking down the tough muscle fibers. Here are some effective marinades:
- Acidic marinades: Marinate the steak in a solution of vinegar, lemon juice, or wine for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. The acidity helps break down the proteins in the meat.
- Enzyme marinades: Use a marinade containing enzymes such as bromelain (found in pineapple) or papain (found in papaya). These enzymes break down the connective tissue in the steak, making it more tender.
- Buttermilk marinade: Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which helps tenderize the meat. Marinate the steak in buttermilk for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.
Grilling the Steak
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F).
- Season the steak: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your favorite spices.
- Grill the steak: Grill the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 135°F; for medium, cook to 145°F.
- Rest the steak: Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Slicing the Steak
- Cut against the grain: When slicing the steak, always cut against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which helps break them down and make the steak more tender.
- Thinly sliced: Slice the steak thinly, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help ensure that each bite is tender and flavorful.
Using a Meat Mallet (Optional)
- Tenderize the steak: If you want an extra tender steak, use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak before cooking. This helps break down the tough muscle fibers.
- Avoid over-tenderizing: Be careful not to over-tenderize the steak, as this can make it mushy. Tenderize it just enough to break down the fibers.
Other Tips for Tenderizing Skirt Steak
- Score the steak: Before grilling, score the steak by making shallow cuts across the surface. This helps the marinade penetrate more deeply and allows the heat to distribute evenly.
- Cook it on high heat: High heat quickly sears the outside of the steak, locking in the juices and preventing it from becoming tough.
- Don’t overcook it: Skirt steak is a thin cut that cooks quickly. Overcooking it will make it tough and chewy.
- Use a good quality grill or pan: A high-quality grill or pan will help distribute heat evenly and prevent the steak from sticking.
How to Make Skirt Steak Tender: Conclusion
By following these techniques, you can transform skirt steak into a flavorful and tender delicacy. Remember to choose the right steak, marinate it properly, grill it on high heat, slice it thinly, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Questions You May Have
Q: How long should I marinate skirt steak?
A: Marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
A: Yes, but skirt steak is the best choice for this recipe due to its thinness and flavor.
Q: What is the best way to slice skirt steak?
A: Cut the steak thinly against the grain.
Q: Can I grill skirt steak on a gas or charcoal grill?
A: Yes, either type of grill will work.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with skirt steak?
A: Try grilled vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
