Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, is ideal for quick, high-heat cooking methods such as grilling, broiling, and pan-searing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cook the perfect flank steak.
Preparing the Flank Steak
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prepare your flank steak properly.
Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly[1][2][5].
Pat Dry and Season: Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a good crust on the steak. Season the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings or marinades according to your preference[2][5].
Cooking Methods
Pan-Searing
Pan-searing is a great way to cook flank steak, especially if you don’t have access to a grill.
Heat the Pan: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium to high heat. Ensure the pan is hot by hovering your hand a couple of inches above it[1][2].
Add Oil and Sear: Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil (such as avocado oil or olive oil) to the pan and swirl it around. Place the flank steak in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side. If the steak starts to curl or raise, use a metal spatula or a cast iron steak weight to press it down and ensure even cooking[1][2].
Flip and Cook: Flip the steak over and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until it reaches your desired internal temperature. For rare, aim for 125°F, medium-rare at 130°F, and medium at 135°F[1][2].
Grilling
Grilling adds a smoky flavor and a nice char to the steak.
Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking[5].
Sear the Steak: Place the flank steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature. For rare, cook to 120°F, and for medium-rare, cook to 130°F[5].
Broiling
Broiling is another high-heat method that can produce excellent results.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to broil (high heat). Place the flank steak on a broiler pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature[5].
Resting and Slicing
Regardless of the cooking method, resting the steak is crucial for retaining its juices.
Rest the Steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. You can tent it with foil to keep it warm[1][2][5].
Slice Against the Grain: After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This ensures the steak is tender and easy to chew. Identify the grain or the stripes running lengthwise in the meat and slice width-wise, across the grain[1][2][5].
Additional Tips
Marinating: If you prefer a more flavorful steak, consider marinating it for at least an hour or overnight. A marinade with ingredients like soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, and spices can add depth and tenderness to the steak[3].
High Heat: Flank steak cooks best over high heat to develop a flavorful crust before it becomes overcooked on the inside[5].
Even Cooking: Ensure the steak cooks evenly by pressing down on it if it curls or raises during cooking. Use a metal spatula or a cast iron steak weight for this purpose[1].
Most Important Facts About Cooking Flank Steak
Bring to Room Temperature: Always let the flank steak sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
Pat Dry: Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help create a good crust.
High Heat: Cook the steak over high heat using methods like pan-searing, grilling, or broiling.
Internal Temperature: Cook to the desired internal temperature: 125°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, and 135°F for medium.
Resting: Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Slice Against the Grain: Slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Even Cooking: Use a metal spatula or a cast iron steak weight to press down the steak if it curls or raises during cooking.
By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak with a flavorful crust and a tender interior.
