Flank steak, also known as London broil, is a long, narrow cut prized for its bold beefy flavor and affordability. While lean and budget-friendly, flank steak can become tough if overcooked. However, with the right approach, it transforms into a tender and flavorful addition to your grilling repertoire. This guide delves into the secrets of grilling flank steak to perfection, covering everything from cooking times to essential techniques.
Understanding Flank Steak:
Flank steak originates from the flank muscle of the cow. Popular cuts include the standard flank steak (1-2 inches thick), the petite flank (ideal for quick grilling), and the skirt steak (similar to flank but with a slightly finer texture). Flank steak boasts a rich, beefy taste with hints of iron and blood. Its coarse grain can become chewy if cooked for too long. When cooked correctly, though, it delivers a delightful combination of tenderness, juiciness, and robust flavor.
Why Cooking Technique Matters:
Mastering the art of grilling flank steak involves achieving the desired level of doneness while avoiding dryness. Flank steak’s lean nature makes it susceptible to overcooking, so using proper methods is crucial. Here’s why:
- Doneness Matters: Since flank steak is best enjoyed medium-rare or medium, overcooking results in a tough and dry experience.
- Preserving Moisture: Lacking abundant marbling, flank steak can easily dry out. Proper techniques help retain moisture and maintain tenderness.
- Unlocking Flavor and Tenderness: Techniques like quick searing and resting help break down muscle fibers, leading to a more tender and flavorful steak.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time:
Several factors influence how long to cook flank steak on the grill:
- Steak Thickness: Thicker cuts naturally require more cooking time.
- Desired Doneness: Rarer steaks cook faster than well-done ones.
- Grilling Temperature and Method: Higher heat and direct grilling cook faster than lower heat and indirect methods.
Understanding Levels of Doneness:
The ideal level of doneness is a matter of personal preference. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Rare (120-125°F): Red throughout with a slightly warm center.
- Medium-Rare (130-135°F): Slightly pink in the center with a warm red outer edge.
- Medium (140-145°F): Slightly rosy in the center with a cooked outer edge.
- Medium-Well (150-155°F): Mostly cooked with a hint of pink in the center.
- Well-Done (160°F and above): Fully cooked throughout with no pink remaining.
Cooking Times (Recommendations):
Keep in mind that these are guidelines, and you may need to adjust slightly based on thickness, grill temperature, and desired doneness.
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1-inch thick flank steak:
- Rare: 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium-Rare: 5-6 minutes per side
- Medium: 6-7 minutes per side
- Medium-Well: 7-8 minutes per side
- Well-Done: 8-10 minutes per side
-
1.5-inch thick flank steak:
- Rare: 5-6 minutes per side
- Medium-Rare: 6-7 minutes per side
- Medium: 7-8 minutes per side
- Medium-Well: 8-9 minutes per side
- Well-Done: 9-11 minutes per side
-
2-inch thick flank steak:
- Rare: 6-7 minutes per side
- Medium-Rare: 7-8 minutes per side
- Medium: 8-9 minutes per side
- Medium-Well: 9-10 minutes per side
- Well-Done: 10-12 minutes per side
Grilling Flank Steak Like a Pro:
Selecting the Right Flank Steak:
- Marbling Matters: Look for steaks with thin streaks of white marbling throughout, adding flavor and tenderness.
- Trim Wisely: Remove excess fat while leaving a thin layer for moisture and flavor.
Preparing the Flank Steak:
- Room Temperature is Key: Take the steak out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
- Pat Away Excess Moisture: Use paper towels to ensure a good sear on the grill.
Seasoning for Success:
- Season Generously: Apply salt and pepper liberally to both sides just before grilling for maximum flavor penetration.
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Grilling to Perfection:
- Preheat for High Heat: Aim for a grill temperature between 400°F and 450°F for optimal searing.
- Quick Sear, Perfect Sear: Grill the steak for 2-3 minutes per side for rare, adding 1-2 minutes per side for each level of doneness beyond that. Use a stopwatch for precise timing.
- Tongs are Your Friend: Avoid piercing the steak with a fork, as this releases juices and dries it out.
Resting for Maximum Flavor:
- Let it Rest: After removing the steak from the grill, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Redistributing the Goodness: Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful experience.
Additional Tips for Grilling Champions:
- Marinating Magic: While marinating flank steak for 30 minutes to an hour can enhance flavor and tenderness, it won’t significantly impact cooking times. Use a simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs for added depth.
- Searing for a Crust: For a beautiful caramelized crust, sear the steak for 30-60 seconds per side over high heat. Minimize movement during searing to achieve that irresistible exterior.
- Thermometer for Accuracy: A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to determine doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone or gristle, and refer to the internal temperature guide above for your desired level.
Slicing and Serving:
- Slicing Against the Grain: To ensure tenderness, slice flank steak against the grain. This means cutting across the muscle fibers, making them shorter and easier to chew.
- Serving Suggestions: Flank steak pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
- Chimichurri sauce (a zesty Argentinian condiment made with parsley, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar)
- A simple green salad
Conclusion:
In conclusion, grilling flank steak is not only a rewarding culinary adventure but also a cost-effective way to savor the mouthwatering flavors of beef. By implementing the tips and techniques outlined above, you can confidently cook this affordable cut to perfection, impressing your guests and elevating your next barbecue gathering.
Embrace the sizzle of the grill as you masterfully prepare flank steak, understanding and appreciating the various factors that influence its cooking time. With a little practice and a touch of creativity, you can unlock the potential of this fantastic cut, transforming it into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any occasion.
Fire up the grill with confidence, knowing that you have acquired the knowledge and skills to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Embrace the bold flavor and versatility that flank steak brings to the table, allowing its tender texture and rich taste to captivate your palate.
So, as you embark on your grilling adventure, armed with these valuable insights, take a moment to appreciate the journey you are about to undertake. Allow yourself to revel in the joy of creating delectable meals, knowing that you have discovered the secrets to mastering flank steak.