Grilled Flank Steak

Welcome to Eatimi! I’m Olivia Hart — a home-cook who believes delicious food doesn’t need complicated techniques. Here I share easy everyday recipes, family meals, quick ideas for busy days, and helpful kitchen tips to make cooking simple and fun. My goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen and enjoy homemade food with joy, comfort, and love. 💛

Flank steak takes me back to summer BBQs with family and friends. I remember the aroma wafting through the air as we gathered around the grill, laughing and sharing stories. Grilled flank steak has always held a special place in these gatherings. Its rich, beefy flavour pairs so well with marinades, making it a versatile choice for any cook.

One of my favourite ways to prepare it involves a marinade that brings out the best in the meat. The blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic truly elevates the dish. Marinating allows the flavours to soak in, creating tender and juicy slices that everyone raves about. There’s nothing quite like serving this succulent grilled flank steak to family and friends, making those moments around the table even more memorable.

The thrill of grilling flank steak captures the essence of outdoor cooking and creates a warm ambiance. Once you get the hang of it, grilling becomes a joy, turning mealtime into a celebration. Let’s dive into the essentials of grilling flank steak and make your next outdoor meal a success.

Grilled Flank Steak: The Essentials

Fundamentals

Grilling flank steak requires attention to marinating and temperature control, making the process simple yet exciting. The quality of the steak matters, and choosing a good cut ensures you experience that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Flank steak, although relatively tougher than other cuts, responds beautifully to marinating and grilling.

When selecting flank steak, look for a piece with a nice marbling of fat. This fat will help keep the steak moist while grilling. You don’t need a lot of equipment, just a gas grill and a good set of tongs. Preparing a marinade is where the magic happens.

Preparation/Setup

Start by gathering your ingredients: 2 pounds of flank steak, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of fresh minced chives, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar.

Mix all marinade ingredients in a Ziploc bag or a large dish. The marinade is crucial for adding layers of flavour; it combines the umami from the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce with the sweet notes from the brown sugar. Once fully mixed, add the flank steak. Make sure it is well coated in the marinade. Let it marinate in the fridge overnight or, at the very least, for a few hours.

Your grill should be preheated to high heat when you’re ready to cook. This step is vital as it sears the steak, locking in those precious juices and creating that irresistible char.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds flank steak
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

Directions

1. Mix all marinade ingredients together in a Ziploc bag or a large dish.
2. Add the flank steak and marinate in the fridge overnight or at least all day.
3. Heat the gas grill to high heat.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade and lay it on the grill for 2 minutes per side.
5. Turn the heat down to medium and cook for another 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until reaching an internal temperature of 130 degrees F for medium rare.
6. Remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board, draped with foil.
7. Simmer half of the remaining marinade in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes to use as a sauce.
8. Slice the steak against the grain and drizzle additional sauce if desired.

Mastering Flank Steak

Technique

Cooking flank steak perfectly lies in the method you use. The key is high heat for a good sear, followed by medium heat to finish cooking. This technique helps develop a beautiful crust while keeping the inside tender.

When it comes to cooking times, remember that every grill behaves differently. Therefore, stay vigilant and use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures. For medium-rare, aim for around 130 degrees F.

Tips/Tricks

Resting the steak after grilling is just as important as cooking it. Allow it to sit covered with foil for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavourful. Cutting against the grain is critical when slicing flap steak. It helps ensure tenderness in every bite, preventing the meat from feeling chewy.

Experimenting with marinades can spark creativity. Consider adding fresh herbs or spices to customize flavours.

Perfecting Grilled Flank Steak

Perfecting Results

Once you understand the fundamentals, achieving perfect results becomes easier. Cooking to the ideal temperature elevates the taste and texture of your grilled flank steak.

Feel free to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the steak. A thicker cut might require a few extra minutes.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your steak comes out tougher than expected, it’s likely due to insufficient marinating or slicing. Always ensure a solid marinating time, and don’t forget to slice against the grain. If you’re exploring variations, try different flavour profiles with your marinade. Adding citrus such as orange or lemon can enhance the taste and make it truly unique.

Serving Grilled Flank Steak

Serving/Presentation

Plating grilled flank steak can be fun and creative. Serve it sliced on a bed of fresh greens or with roasted vegetables for an eye-catching presentation. Consider garnishing with extra fresh chives for a pop of colour.

Pairings/Storage

Pair grilled flank steak with hearty side dishes like roasted potatoes or a vibrant salad. The flavours complement each other beautifully. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating can bring it back to life; just be careful not to overcook.

Grilled flank steak offers endless possibilities for delicious family meals and gatherings. The combination of simple ingredients transforms into bold flavours that impress. Unleash your grilling skills and savour every bite of this delightful dish. Enjoying well-made grilled flank steak becomes a cherished memory at any mealtime.