Flat Iron Steak Recipe

Flat Iron Steak

Flat iron steak stands out as a favorite for many home cooks. Its rich flavor and tenderness make it a versatile cut that works well in various dishes. I remember the first time I prepared flat iron steak for my friends. They gathered around the table, captivated by the aroma wafting through the kitchen. Everyone eagerly awaited their servings, and the praises echoed through the night as they savored every slice.

The secret lies not just in the cut of meat but also in the marinade. Combining soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, brown sugar, garlic, and scallions creates a wonderful flavor profile that elevates the steak. With just an hour of marination, you can impart a mouthwatering zest that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Flat iron steak has earned its place in my kitchen repertoire due to its ease of preparation and incredible taste. Whether it’s grilled, pan-seared, or served in a taco, flat iron steak never disappoints. As I further delve into how to prepare this remarkable cut, you’ll discover tips and techniques that ensure each meal is a home run.

Understanding Flat Iron Steak

Fundamentals

Flat iron steak hails from the shoulder area of the cow, known as the chuck. This area produces a tender cut with excellent marbling, delivering flavor and moisture when cooked properly. Notably, the flat iron steak is prized for its balance between tenderness and full-bodied flavor, making it a preferred option for those seeking a delicious meal.

When selecting flat iron steak, look for a deep red color and even marbling throughout the cut. This marbling works wonderfully during cooking, as the fat melts and infuses the meat with flavor. Often available in various weights, choose a size that suits your gathering. Buying a 1-2 pound cut ensures you’ll have enough for an intimate dinner or a small gathering.

Preparation/setup

Preparing flat iron steak begins well before the cooking process. Create an enticing marinade using two tablespoons of soy sauce, three tablespoons of lemon juice, a third of a cup of olive oil, one tablespoon of brown sugar, and one minced garlic clove. This mixture packs a flavorful punch that permeates the meat beautifully.

Combine these ingredients in a bowl, stirring until the brown sugar dissolves. Once your marinade is ready, take that flat iron steak and immerse it in the mixture. Ensure every inch of the steak is coated to maximize flavor.

Ingredients

• 1-2 pound flat iron steak
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/2 cup scallions (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Combine the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped scallions.
2. Add the flat iron steak to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate, allowing the steak to marinate for one hour or even overnight for deeper flavors.
4. Once marination is complete, preheat a medium pan over medium heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil.
5. Remove the steak from the marinade, seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Place the steak in the heated pan, cooking for 5-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 135ºF.
7. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes.
8. Slice against the grain, and serve.

Cooking Flat Iron Steak

Technique

Cooking flat iron steak requires some finesse, but with a few techniques, it becomes straightforward. Always start with a hot pan to achieve a good sear. This is crucial, as a well-seared steak locks in juices, preventing dryness.

While cooking, allow the steak to develop a crust before flipping it. Avoid the temptation to move it around too much,as this can prevent proper browning. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare is 135ºF, making a meat thermometer a useful tool for accuracy.

Tips/tricks

1. Rest Your Steak: After cooking, always let the steak rest. This step allows juices to redistribute, leading to a juicier steak. Resting for about ten minutes is ideal.

2. Slice Correctly: Always slice against the grain of the meat. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.

3. Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate overnight if time permits. The longer the steak sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it becomes.

4. Pan Size: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If cooking multiple steaks, use a larger pan or cook in batches to maintain temperature and ensure even browning.

Perfecting Flat Iron Steak

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect flat iron steak is a balance of temperature control and timing. After removing the steak from the pan, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This method lets you know if it has reached your desired doneness, whether that be rare, medium, or well-done.

Another way to perfect results is to consider using an outdoor grill if weather permits. Grilling infuses a unique flavor that adds depth. Just remember to maintain a hot grill for the best sear.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the steak turns out tough, it could be due to insufficient slicing against the grain. It’s essential to pay attention to the direction of the meat fibers.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding spices to the marinade. A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs can completely change the flavor profile without much effort.

If you prefer a different cooking method than pan-searing, you can also broil the flat iron steak. Just keep an eye on it and tweak the cooking time as necessary.

Serving Flat Iron Steak

Serving/presentation

Flat iron steak shines on any dinner table, presenting beautifully whether served whole or sliced. Pair the steak with colorful sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to add visual appeal.

For a bistro-style presentation, arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle a bit of the marinade or some chimichurri sauce over the top. This adds both flavor and a burst of color.

Pairings/storage

Flat iron steak pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider classic options such as mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or even a vibrant quinoa salad.

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to prevent drying out, or enjoy slices cold in sandwiches or salads.

The process of preparing flat iron steak is straightforward and delightful. With a flavorful marinade and simple cooking techniques, you can create a dish that satisfies every time. The flat iron steak not only delivers exceptional taste but also brings friends and family together around the table. It embraces the spirit of home cooking and creates lasting memories with every meal served.

Print