Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, has become a staple in many summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. Its bold flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser, but cooking it to perfection can be a challenge, especially when it comes to grilling. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of flank steak and explore the optimal cooking time to achieve a deliciously grilled dish.
Understanding Flank Steak
Before we dive into the cooking time, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of flank steak. This cut of beef comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, making it a lean and relatively tough piece of meat. However, with proper cooking techniques, flank steak can be transformed into a tender and juicy masterpiece.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Several factors can impact the cooking time of flank steak on the grill. These include:
- Thickness of the steak: A thicker steak will require more time to cook, while a thinner steak will cook faster.
- Heat of the grill: A hotter grill will cook the steak faster, while a cooler grill will require more time.
- Desired level of doneness: Cooking the steak to rare, medium-rare, or medium will require different cooking times.
- Marbling and fat content: Flank steak with more marbling (fat distribution) will cook faster and be more tender.
Cooking Time Guidelines
Now that we’ve explored the factors affecting cooking time, let’s dive into some general guidelines for grilling flank steak.
Rare (120°F – 130°F)
- Thin steak (1/4 inch): 3-5 minutes per side
- Medium steak (1/2 inch): 5-7 minutes per side
- Thick steak (3/4 inch): 7-9 minutes per side
Medium-Rare (130°F – 135°F)
- Thin steak (1/4 inch): 5-7 minutes per side
- Medium steak (1/2 inch): 7-9 minutes per side
- Thick steak (3/4 inch): 9-11 minutes per side
Medium (140°F – 145°F)
- Thin steak (1/4 inch): 7-9 minutes per side
- Medium steak (1/2 inch): 9-11 minutes per side
- Thick steak (3/4 inch): 11-13 minutes per side
Additional Tips for Grilling Flank Steak
While cooking time is crucial, there are other factors to consider when grilling flank steak.
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 450°F). This will ensure a nice sear on the steak.
Oil and Seasoning
Brush the steak with oil and season with your desired spices and herbs. This will enhance the flavor and prevent the steak from sticking to the grill.
Grilling Techniques
Use a cast-iron or stainless steel grill mat to achieve those beautiful grill marks. You can also use a grill basket or grill grates for added texture.
Resting the Steak
Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When grilling flank steak, it’s easy to make mistakes that can result in a subpar dish. Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Overcooking: Flank steak can become tough and dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature.
- Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can result in a steak that’s cooked unevenly. Preheat your grill to the optimal temperature.
- Not letting the steak rest: Failing to let the steak rest can result in a loss of juices and flavor.
Conclusion
Grilling flank steak can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and cooking times, you can achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. Remember to consider the thickness of the steak, heat of the grill, and desired level of doneness when determining cooking time. By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a grill master. So, fire up your grill and get ready to impress your friends and family with a perfectly cooked flank steak.
What is the ideal cooking time for grilled flank steak?
The ideal cooking time for grilled flank steak depends on the level of doneness desired and the thickness of the steak. For medium-rare, cook the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, cook for 7-9 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C). For medium-well or well-done, cook for 9-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150-155°F (66-68°C) or higher.
It’s essential to note that the thickness of the steak can affect the cooking time. A thicker steak will require more time to cook, while a thinner steak will cook more quickly. It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak has reached a safe internal temperature. This will help prevent overcooking or undercooking the steak.
How do I prepare the grill for cooking flank steak?
To prepare the grill for cooking flank steak, start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F or 200-230°C). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent the steak from sticking. You can also add wood chips or chunks to the grill to add smoky flavor to the steak. Once the grill is preheated, reduce the heat to medium (350-400°F or 175-200°C) and place the steak on the grill.
It’s also essential to make sure the steak is at room temperature before grilling. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from cooking too quickly on the outside. You can also season the steak with your desired seasonings and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling flank steak?
One common mistake to avoid when grilling flank steak is overcooking it. Flank steak can become tough and chewy if it’s overcooked, so it’s essential to cook it to the right temperature. Another mistake is not letting the steak rest before slicing it. Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes will help the juices redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Another mistake is not cutting the steak against the grain. Cutting the steak against the grain will make it more tender and easier to chew. To cut against the grain, look for the lines of muscle fibers on the steak and cut in the opposite direction. This will help break down the fibers and make the steak more palatable.
How do I achieve a nice crust on my grilled flank steak?
To achieve a nice crust on your grilled flank steak, make sure the grill is preheated to the right temperature (400-450°F or 200-230°C). You can also add a small amount of oil to the steak before grilling to help create a crust. Once the steak is on the grill, don’t move it for 3-4 minutes to allow a crust to form. You can also use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan to sear the steak before finishing it on the grill.
Another way to achieve a nice crust is to use a dry rub or marinade on the steak before grilling. A dry rub will add flavor to the steak and help create a crust, while a marinade will add moisture and flavor. You can also add a small amount of sugar to the dry rub or marinade to help caramelize the crust.
Can I cook flank steak to different levels of doneness?
Yes, you can cook flank steak to different levels of doneness. The most common levels of doneness are medium-rare, medium, medium-well, and well-done. Medium-rare is cooked to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is cooked to an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C). Medium-well is cooked to an internal temperature of 150-155°F (66-68°C), while well-done is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher.
It’s essential to note that cooking the steak to different levels of doneness will affect its tenderness and flavor. Medium-rare steak will be more tender and have a more robust flavor, while well-done steak will be drier and less flavorful. It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak has reached a safe internal temperature.
How do I slice grilled flank steak?
To slice grilled flank steak, make sure it has rested for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This will help the juices redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. Once the steak has rested, slice it against the grain using a sharp knife. To slice against the grain, look for the lines of muscle fibers on the steak and cut in the opposite direction.
It’s also essential to slice the steak thinly, about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. This will make the steak more tender and easier to chew. You can also slice the steak at an angle to make it more visually appealing. Once the steak is sliced, serve it immediately and enjoy.
Can I cook flank steak in advance and reheat it?
Yes, you can cook flank steak in advance and reheat it. However, it’s essential to cook the steak to the right temperature and let it rest before refrigerating or freezing it. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. You can then refrigerate or freeze the steak for later use.
To reheat the steak, you can use a skillet or oven. Simply heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the steak in the skillet and heat it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s heated through. You can also reheat the steak in the oven by placing it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until it’s heated through.