What To Know
- Sear the steak in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the steak in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 20-25 minutes for rare to medium-rare, or 25-30 minutes for medium to medium-well.
- To reheat flank steak, slice it thinly and heat it gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.
Flank steak, with its bold flavor and affordable price, is a popular cut of beef. However, determining its doneness can be tricky, as overcooking can result in a tough and chewy steak. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential knowledge to master the art of cooking flank steak to your desired level of doneness.
Understanding Flank Steak
Flank steak is a relatively long and thin cut of beef taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is known for its intense flavor and chewy texture due to the presence of connective tissue. Flank steak is best cooked quickly over high heat to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.
Factors Affecting Doneness
The doneness of flank steak is primarily determined by three factors:
- Internal Temperature: The internal temperature of the steak is the most accurate indicator of its doneness.
- Time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
- Cooking Method: Different cooking methods, such as grilling, searing, or roasting, will affect the rate at which the steak cooks.
Doneness Levels
Flank steak is typically cooked to one of four doneness levels:
- Rare: Internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C), with a slightly pink interior and warm, red center.
- Medium-Rare: Internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), with a slightly pink interior and a warm, pink center.
- Medium: Internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C), with a slightly pink interior and a warm, red center.
- Medium-Well: Internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C), with a slightly pink interior and a warm, brown center.
How to Check Doneness
There are several methods for checking the doneness of flank steak:
- Meat Thermometer: The most precise method is to insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.
- Touch Test: Gently press the steak with your finger. A rare steak will feel soft and squishy, while a well-done steak will feel firm and springy.
- Visual Cues: The steak will begin to “dome” or swell slightly when it is nearing the desired level of doneness.
Cooking Flank Steak
To achieve the perfect doneness, follow these cooking guidelines:
- Preheat: Preheat your grill, pan, or oven to high heat.
- Season: Season the flank steak liberally with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cook the steak for a short period on each side, depending on the desired level of doneness.
- Rest: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Best Cooking Methods
The following cooking methods are recommended for flank steak:
- Grilling: Grill the steak over high heat for 3-5 minutes per side for rare to medium-rare, or 5-7 minutes per side for medium to medium-well.
- Searing: Sear the steak in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 10-15 minutes for rare to medium-rare, or 15-20 minutes for medium to medium-well.
- Roasting: Roast the steak in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 20-25 minutes for rare to medium-rare, or 25-30 minutes for medium to medium-well.
Slicing and Serving
Once the flank steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Serve it immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a flavorful sauce.
In a nutshell: Mastering the Art
Determining when flank steak is done is crucial for achieving the desired level of tenderness and flavor. By understanding the factors affecting doneness, utilizing the appropriate cooking methods, and employing various techniques to check doneness, you can master the art of cooking flank steak to perfection.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I cook flank steak to well-done?
A: While not recommended, you can cook flank steak to well-done. However, keep in mind that overcooking will result in a tough and chewy steak.
Q: How do I tenderize flank steak before cooking?
A: Marinating the steak in an acidic marinade, such as lemon juice or vinegar, for several hours or overnight can help tenderize it.
Q: What is the best way to reheat flank steak?
A: To reheat flank steak, slice it thinly and heat it gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid overheating, as this can toughen the steak.
