How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler?

Looking to elevate your cooking skills and impress your dinner guests? Cooking flank steak under the broiler is the way to go!

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about flank steak – from choosing the right cut to marinating it for maximum flavor.

We will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook flank steak under the broiler, along with tips for perfectly cooked meat.

And, we will share some serving and pairing suggestions to make your meal complete. Grab your apron and get ready to learn how to cook a delicious broiled flank steak like a pro!

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that is known for its lean texture and rich, beefy taste, making it a popular choice for various dishes.

One of the key characteristics of flank steak is its prominent grain, which runs across the meat. This cut is best when cooked quickly at high heat, making it ideal for grilling. To enhance its natural flavors, marinating flank steak is a common practice, often using olive oil as a base along with herbs and spices. Due to its thickness, it’s important to slice flank steak thinly against the grain after cooking for optimal tenderness. Its popularity in recipes such as tacos, stir-fries, and salads highlights its versatility in different cuisines.

Why Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler?

Cooking flank steak under the broiler provides a quick and efficient method to achieve a caramelized crust while retaining the meat’s tenderness and juiciness.

Broiling utilizes direct heat from above, allowing the meat to sear quickly on the outside, sealing in its natural juices within. This method is ideal for those who prefer a nicely charred exterior paired with a tender interior.

To enhance the flavors further, consider marinating the flank steak beforehand or seasoning it generously. When using a skillet for broiling, make sure it’s preheated to ensure a good sear. Monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer will help you achieve your preferred level of doneness.

Preparation for Cooking Flank Steak

Before cooking flank steak, it’s essential to prepare a flavorful marinade that complements the beef’s natural taste and tenderizes the meat for optimal results.

What Ingredients Do You Need?

To prepare flank steak, you will need ingredients like olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar for a well-balanced and flavorful dish.

These ingredients play crucial roles in flavoring and tenderizing the steak.

• Olive oil is used to marinate the meat, keeping it juicy and adding a subtle fruitiness.
• Salt helps enhance the natural beef flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Pepper provides a gentle heat and complements the savory notes.
• Garlic adds a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with beef.
• Ginger, with its unique zing, adds depth and warmth.

Soy sauce injects umami richness, while brown sugar caramelizes beautifully, tenderizing and adding a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

How to Choose the Right Flank Steak?

When selecting flank steak, opt for cuts that are well-marbled with a bright red color and a thickness suitable for the desired cooking method to ensure a tender and flavorful outcome.

Marbling in the meat indicates fat distribution, which contributes to tenderness and juiciness. Look for a steak with consistent marbling throughout for optimal flavor. Pay attention to the color of the steak; avoid any signs of discoloration or dark spots as they may indicate spoilage.

Consider how you plan to cook the flank steak. If grilling, choose a thicker cut to prevent overcooking and ensure a juicy result. For oven cooking, a thinner cut may be more suitable, allowing for quicker and more even cooking. Remember to let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices.

How to Marinate Flank Steak?

Marinating flank steak involves combining ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, black pepper, vegetable oil, and brown sugar to create a flavorful and tenderizing mixture that elevates the meat’s taste.

Once the ingredients are mixed thoroughly, the flank steak should be placed in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish to marinate. It is essential to ensure that the steak is fully coated with the marinade to maximize the flavor infusion. The marinating duration is crucial; ideally, the steak should marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight marination is recommended for the best results.

The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar not only adds a sweet and savory balance but also helps in tenderizing the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful. The ginger and garlic contribute their aromatic essences, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

Cooking Flank Steak Under Broiler

Cooking flank steak under the broiler or on the grill requires proper temperature control and monitoring to achieve the desired level of doneness while ensuring a juicy and succulent final dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To cook flank steak under the broiler, preheat the oven, prepare the steak with desired seasonings, place it on a broiler pan, and broil to the desired level of doneness, ensuring to flip halfway through for even cooking.

When preheating the oven, set it to the broil function and allow it to heat up fully to ensure proper cooking. Seasoning the flank steak is crucial for flavor; consider using a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a traditional taste. Placing the steak on a broiler pan helps excess fat drip away, contributing to a healthier dish. Remember to flip the steak halfway through the broiling process to achieve an evenly cooked result.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Flank Steak

For perfectly cooked flank steak, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, allow the meat to rest before slicing, and cut against the grain to ensure tenderness and optimal texture.

When using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading. Aim for a medium-rare doneness with an internal temperature of around 130-135°F (54-57°C) for the juiciest results.

After cooking, let the flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite with each slice.

Regarding cutting the steak, remember to slice against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easier to chew.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

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When serving flank steak, consider slicing it thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and pair it with complementary sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

How to Slice Flank Steak?

To slice flank steak, allow it to rest after cooking to redistribute the juices, then cut thin slices against the grain to enhance tenderness and promote a more enjoyable eating experience.

Letting the flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing is crucial as it allows the meat fibers to relax, leading to a juicier and more flavorful final dish. This resting period gives the juices time to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.

Regarding slicing, pay attention to the grain direction – cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Opt for thin slices to further maximize tenderness and to fully appreciate the rich flavors of the meat.

What Goes Well with Flank Steak?

Flank steak pairs well with an array of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, garden-fresh salads, and a glass of robust red wine, creating a delightful and harmonious dining experience.

For those looking to balance the richness of the flank steak, consider serving it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to complement the meat’s savory flavors. A zesty chimichurri sauce can add a burst of freshness to each bite, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

Regarding salads, a refreshing arugula with sweet cherry tomatoes and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing can provide a perfect contrast to the hearty steak. Alternatively, a grilled vegetable medley tossed with lemon herb dressing can offer a light and crisp accompaniment.

For those seeking a beverage pairing, a bold Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon can beautifully complement the robust flavors of the flank steak, enhancing the dining experience. These wines offer a rich, full-bodied profile that pairs harmoniously with the meat’s texture and seasoning.

Conclusion

Cooking flank steak under the broiler offers a convenient and effective method to prepare a flavorful and tender dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Broiling flank steak allows for the exterior to develop a delightful charred crust, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste. The high direct heat quickly caramelizes the sugars present in the meat, creating a rich flavor profile that is unmatched. This method also helps in retaining the natural juices of the steak, keeping it moist and succulent, unlike other cooking techniques that may lead to dryness.

Final Thoughts on Cooking Flank Steak Under Broiler

Exploring the realm of cooking flank steak under the broiler opens up a world of culinary possibilities, allowing you to create delectable dishes infused with rich flavors and enticing aromas.

Regarding cooking flank steak under the broiler, there are a few essential Tips to keep in mind for a successful outcome. For starters, marinating the steak beforehand can add layers of flavor and help tenderize the meat.

• Choosing the right marinade with a balance of acidity, sweetness, and spices can elevate the taste profile of your steak.
• Ensuring the steak is at room temperature before broiling helps in achieving even cooking and a juicy interior.

Following these Instructions can lead to a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Recipe for Broiled Flank Steak

Prepare a mouthwatering recipe for broiled flank steak by marinating the meat with a blend of savory ingredients, then broiling it to perfection for a memorable dining experience.

Start by marinating the flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is crucial to infuse the steak with rich flavor and tenderize the cut.

When ready to cook, preheat the broiler in your oven and place the marinated steak on a broiling pan, ensuring it is evenly coated with the marinade. Broil the steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on the desired level of doneness.

Once cooked to perfection, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve the broiled flank steak with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of chimichurri sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: What are the essential ingredients needed?

The essential ingredients for cooking flank steak under a broiler includes flank steak, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of seasoning or marinade.

2. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: Should I marinate the steak beforehand?

Marinating the flank steak beforehand is optional, but it can add flavor and tenderness to the meat. If you choose to marinate, make sure to do so for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

3. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: How long should I cook the steak for?

The cooking time for flank steak under a broiler varies depending on the thickness and desired doneness. As a general rule, cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, and 6-8 minutes for medium.

4. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: Do I need to preheat the broiler?

Yes, it is crucial to preheat the broiler before cooking the steak. This ensures that the broiler is at the right temperature, and the steak cooks evenly.

5. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: Should I flip the steak while cooking?

Yes, it is recommended to flip the steak at least once while cooking under a broiler. This ensures even cooking and prevents the steak from burning on one side.

6. How to Cook Flank Steak Under Broiler: How do I know when the steak is done?

The best way to determine if the flank steak is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 135-140°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium. You can also do a touch test – the steak should feel firm but still slightly springy.