Flavors Worth Savoring
10 Best Flank Steak Recipes for Your Perfect Dinner
As the sun set, the sound of a hot grill filled the air. It called me to the patio. Flank steak, a lean and versatile cut, was ready to make a simple meal special. Whether you love steak or are new to it, these 10 best flank steak recipes will make your dinner unforgettable.
Flank steak comes from the abdomen and is known for its strong flavor. It’s the most popular steak in this collection, loved for its affordability and versatility. These recipes, from grilled to fusion dishes, let you explore new flavors without spending a lot.
These flank steak recipes are perfect for any occasion. They’re quick to make, under 30 minutes, and full of flavor. You’ll enjoy the variety of marinades, spices, and cooking methods used.
Try the classic grilled flank steak with chimichurri or the delicious Mongolian beef. This collection offers a mix of traditional and international flavors. You can also find recipes for salads, tacos, and slow-cooked fajitas. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or adventurous, these recipes will satisfy your taste buds and make your meal special.
Understanding Flank Steak: A Budget-Friendly Cut for Gourmet Meals
Flank steak is a versatile and affordable cut of beef. It’s known for its strong flavor and can be used in many dishes. This lean steak comes from the cow’s abdominal muscles and has a unique grain.
Because of its grain, it needs special tenderizing to be tender. This makes it a great choice for those who love to cook.
Best Methods for Tenderizing Flank Steak
To make flank steak tender and tasty, several methods work well. Marinating the steak in acidic ingredients like citrus or vinegar helps. It breaks down the tough fibers, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Also, letting the steak warm up to room temperature before cooking helps. And slicing it against the grain makes it even more tender.
How to Cut Against the Grain
Cutting the steak against the grain is key for tenderness. This means cutting it at a right angle to the muscle fibers. It shortens the fibers, making each bite tender.
By slicing thinly against the grain, you get a steak that’s incredibly tender. It’s like it melts in your mouth.
Optimal Temperature Guidelines
For the best flank steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. For medium, it’s 140°F, and for medium-well, 145°F. Cooking it quickly over high heat, like grilling or broiling, creates a flavorful crust.
It also keeps the inside juicy and tender. This makes the steak perfect for any meal.
Flank steak is a great choice for gourmet meals because it’s affordable and flavorful. With the right tenderizing and cooking, you can make a delicious steak at home. It opens up a world of tasty possibilities for your next meal.
Classic Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your dinner with grilled flank steak and tangy, herby chimichurri sauce. This dish highlights the tender steak and rich flavor. It’s perfectly matched with the bright Argentinian-inspired chimichurri.
To make this delicious meal, start by marinating the flank steak. Use olive oil, garlic, and spices. Grill the steak for 5-6 minutes on each side, aiming for medium-rare. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it against the grain for tenderness.
While the steak rests, make the chimichurri sauce. Mix fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and a bit of red pepper flakes. This creates a bright, zesty sauce that complements the grilled steak well.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 10-12 minutes | 25-27 minutes | 4-6 |
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (907 g) flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flank steak, olive oil, and minced garlic. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat an outdoor grill or a cast-iron skillet on high heat.
- Grill the flank steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature: 120-125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.
- Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- In a food processor, combine the parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture.
- Slice the flank steak against the grain and serve it immediately with the freshly made chimichurri sauce.
Enjoy this classic grilled flank steak with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri for a delightful dining experience. The flank steak marinade and careful grilling technique ensure a tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned main course that will impress your guests.
Mouthwatering Flank Steak Recipes for Every Occasion
Flank steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut of beef. It can be transformed into many delicious dishes. From the rich flavors of Traditional Italian Braciole to the bold taste of Asian-Inspired Mongolian Beef, it’s perfect for any meal. And don’t forget the classic Mexican-Style Carne Asada, great for tacos, fajitas, or just grilling.
Traditional Italian Braciole
Experience Italy with this classic dish. Flank steak is pounded flat, filled with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Then, it’s rolled and slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. This results in a tender, flavorful dish that feels like a trip to Italy.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 2 hours | 2 hours 30 minutes | 6 | 6 braciole |
Asian-Inspired Mongolian Beef
Try this bold and flavorful stir fry recipe inspired by Mongolia. Thinly sliced flank steak is stir-fried with a sweet and savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete meal.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 | 4 servings |
Mexican-Style Carne Asada
No flank steak recipe roundup is complete without flank steak tacos. Marinated in lime juice, garlic, and spices, this steak is perfect for tacos or grilled alone. Cook it to medium-rare and slice against the grain for tenderness.
| Prep Time | Marinate Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 4-24 hours | 8-12 minutes | 4 hours 32 minutes | 4 | 4 servings |
These three recipes show how versatile flank steak is. You can explore flavors from Italy, Asia, and Mexico. Whether you want a hearty Italian dish, a spicy Asian meal, or a classic Mexican grilling session, flank steak is the key to a great meal.
Slow Cooker Flank Steak Fajitas
Try making slow cooker flank steak fajitas for a hassle-free meal. This recipe gives you tender beef, flavored with bell peppers, onions, and Mexican spices. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and 4 hours to cook, making it quick and easy.
Flank steak or skirt steak is the secret to this dish. Slow cooking makes the meat tender and the flavors blend perfectly. Serve it with tortillas, sour cream, cheese, and garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges for a delicious meal.
This recipe is great for meal prep or casual gatherings. It serves 4 and has only 359 calories per serving. It’s a healthy choice that everyone will enjoy. So, start your slow cooker and enjoy the amazing flavors of these fajitas.
