How to cook a juicy and delicious flank steak

Skirt steak is one of the most appreciated cuts of meat in Mexican cuisine for its flavor and tenderness. Preparing a perfect skirt steak fillet is a skill that every meat lover should master. In this article, I will guide you through the necessary steps to cook a juicy and delicious skirt steak fillet, ensuring that all the flavors concentrate in every bite.
Selecting the Skirt Steak Fillet
Choosing the Right Meat
The first step to achieving a delicious skirt steak fillet is selecting a quality cut. Look for a well-marbled fillet, which means it has streaks of fat that will add juiciness to the meat. Additionally, ensure that the color is bright red and that there are no stains or a dull appearance. The freshness of the meat is crucial for a good dish.
Marinade to Enhance Flavors
Preparing the Marinade
One of the keys to a juicy skirt steak fillet is the marinade. You can prepare a simple marinade using ingredients such as:
- Lemon juice: Adds acidity and helps tenderize the meat.
- Soy sauce: Adds salt and umami.
- Chopped garlic: Adds flavor.
- Black pepper: For a touch of spice.
- Olive oil: Helps retain the moisture of the meat.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and place the skirt steak in the marinade. Let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, although it is recommended to leave it between 4 to 12 hours to intensify the flavors.
Cooking the Fillet
Cooking Method
There are different methods to cook skirt steak, but grilling or pan-searing are the most recommended. Here’s how to do it in both cases:
On the Grill
- Preheat the grill: Make sure the grill is hot before placing the meat on it. This will help seal in the juices.
- Cook the meat: Place the skirt steak on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness. It’s important not to move the meat too much to allow a good crust to form.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
In a Pan
- Heat the pan: Add a little oil to a non-stick pan and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Sear the meat: Place the skirt steak in the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
- Rest: Just like on the grill, let the meat rest before cutting it.
How to Serve
Plating the Dish
Once cooked and rested, slice the skirt steak diagonally to highlight its texture. You can serve it with corn tortillas, salsa to taste, guacamole, and grilled green onions. This dish is ideal for sharing at family gatherings or with friends. Also, you can incorporate a fresh salad as a side.
Conclusion
Cooking a juicy and delicious skirt steak fillet is a simple process that, with the right ingredients and steps, can become one of your specialties in the kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with marinades and sides to make each meal a unique experience.
I invite you to explore more recipes and cooking tips on my blog. There’s always something new to learn and enjoy in gastronomy!