How Long To Cook Flank Steak On Grill

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Introduction

Flank steak, a flavorful and relatively lean cut of beef from the abdominal muscles of the cow, has surged in popularity due to its affordability and versatility. Grilling is a preferred method of cooking flank steak as it imparts a smoky char and allows for quick, high-heat cooking, essential for achieving a tender result. Understanding how long to cook flank steak on the grill is crucial to avoid toughness and maximize its delicious potential.

Ingredients

The essential ingredient is, of course, a flank steak (approximately 1.5-2 pounds). For seasoning, consider:

• Salt: Kosher salt is recommended.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best.
• Olive Oil: To prevent sticking and aid browning.

For a marinade (optional):

• Soy Sauce: Adds umami and helps tenderize.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances savory notes.
• Garlic: Minced, for pungent flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Emulsifies the marinade and adds tang.
• Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Adds acidity to tenderize.
• Brown Sugar or Honey: Balances acidity and promotes caramelization.

Variations include using chili powder, cumin, paprika, or other spices to create a more robust flavor profile.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is key for a tender and flavorful flank steak. Begin by patting the steak dry with paper towels; this promotes better searing. If using a marinade, combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or zip-top bag. Marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Longer marinating times can lead to a mushy texture. Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature for more even cooking. Before grilling, remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry again. Season generously with salt and pepper. Consider scoring the surface of the steak in a crosshatch pattern (shallow cuts against the grain) to help tenderize the meat and allow the marinade and seasonings to penetrate more deeply.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500F or 232-260C). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. 2. Grill the Steak: Place the flank steak on the hot grill grates. 3. How Long to Cook Flank Steak on Grill: For medium-rare (130-135F or 54-57C): Grill for 3-5 minutes per side. For medium (135-145F or 57-63C): Grill for 4-6 minutes per side. For medium-well (145-155F or 63-68C): Grill for 5-7 minutes per side. A meat thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak to check the internal temperature. 4. Resting Period: Remove the flank steak from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. 5. Slice Against the Grain: This is the most critical step! Identify the direction of the muscle fibers (the grain) and slice the steak thinly against the grain at a 45-degree angle. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak much easier to chew.

Serving Suggestions

Flank steak is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Fajitas: Slice the flank steak and serve it with bell peppers, onions, and tortillas for a classic fajita meal.
• Steak Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with sliced flank steak, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a vinaigrette dressing.
• Steak Tacos: Use the sliced flank steak as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite salsa, guacamole, and cilantro.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve flank steak alongside grilled asparagus, corn on the cob, or zucchini.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant Argentinian sauce made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes, is a perfect complement to flank steak.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Don’t Overcook: Flank steak is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will result in a tough and dry steak. High Heat is Key: Grilling flank steak at high heat is essential for achieving a good sear and preventing it from drying out. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Always Slice Against the Grain: This is the most important tip for ensuring a tender and easy-to-chew steak. Failure to do so will result in a chewy and unpleasant texture. Marinate Properly: Marinating for too long can result in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended marinating times. Dry the Steak: Patting the steak dry before grilling promotes better searing.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering how long to cook flank steak on the grill unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, offering a flavorful and adaptable protein option for countless meals. This method highlights its rich taste and straightforward preparation, appealing to diverse palates and making it suitable for both casual family dinners and more elaborate gatherings. Ready to impress with perfectly grilled flank steak? Put these tips into action and then head over to foodrecipestory.com for even more delicious recipes and expert cooking advice!