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October 27, 2024
Chimichurri skirt steak is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of the steak with the boldness of chimichurri sauce. Skirt steak is a thin and elongated cut of beef that is perfect for grilling, and when paired with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri sauce, it becomes a truly mouthwatering meal.
Chimichurri sauce is a traditional Argentinean sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It is commonly served as a condiment for grilled meats, but it also works wonders as a marinade. The combination of the tangy vinegar, the freshness of the herbs, and the richness of the olive oil creates a sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the steak.
To cook chimichurri skirt steak, start by marinating the skirt steak in the chimichurri sauce for at least two hours, or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it extra tender. Then, preheat your grill to high heat and grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Once the steak is done, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing it against the grain. This will ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew. Serve the chimichurri skirt steak with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite.
Selection of the right meat
When it comes to cooking chimichurri skirt steak, selecting the right meat is crucial for a delicious and tender result. Skirt steak is a popular choice due to its rich flavor and texture. Here are some tips for choosing the best skirt steak:
- Look for fresh skirt steak that is bright red in color. Avoid meat that appears dull or brown.
- Opt for skirt steak with a good amount of marbling, as this will contribute to the flavor and tenderness.
- Choose steak that is about 1 inch thick for optimal cooking. Thicker cuts may require longer cooking times.
- Consider purchasing grass-fed or organic skirt steak for a more flavorful and ethically sourced option.
By selecting the right skirt steak, you can ensure that your chimichurri skirt steak is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Preparing the chimichurri sauce
To make the delicious chimichurri sauce for your skirt steak, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Follow these steps to prepare the chimichurri sauce:
- Start by finely chopping the fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, and garlic cloves. You can use a knife or a food processor for this step.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, and garlic with the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember that the skirt steak will also be seasoned, so you don’t need to add too much salt to the sauce.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the chimichurri sauce is ready, you can use it to marinate the skirt steak or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce. The tangy and herby flavors of the sauce will complement the juicy and flavorful skirt steak perfectly.
Marinating the skirt steak
Before cooking the skirt steak, it is important to marinate it to enhance its flavor and tenderness. The marinade will infuse the meat with a delicious blend of herbs, spices, and tangy ingredients.
Here is a simple and flavorful chimichurri marinade recipe:
| Ingredients: | Amount: |
|---|---|
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Parsley | 1 cup, chopped |
| Oregano | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
To marinate the skirt steak, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Place the skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the marinade covers the steak completely. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender skirt steak.
Once the skirt steak has marinated, it is ready to be cooked to perfection. You can grill it, pan-sear it, or even broil it, depending on your preference. No matter how you cook it, the marinated skirt steak will be bursting with flavor and make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Cooking the skirt steak
Once you have prepared the chimichurri sauce and marinated the skirt steak, it’s time to cook the steak to perfection. Here’s how:
1. Preheat the grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and develops a nice char on the outside.
2. Sear the steak
Remove the skirt steak from the marinade and shake off any excess sauce. Place the steak on the preheated grill and let it sear for about 4-6 minutes per side. This will create a nice crust and help lock in the juices.
3. Check for doneness
To determine the doneness of your skirt steak, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).
4. Rest the steak
Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful steak.
5. Slice and serve:
Finally, slice the skirt steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure that the meat is tender and easy to eat. Serve the steak with a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce, and enjoy!
Serving and enjoying the steak
Once the chimichurri skirt steak is cooked to your liking, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your steak:
- Let the steak rest: Before cutting into the steak, it’s important to let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
- Slice against the grain: When cutting the steak, make sure to slice against the grain. This helps to break up the tough muscle fibers and makes the steak more tender.
- Drizzle with extra chimichurri sauce: To enhance the flavor of the steak, drizzle it with some extra chimichurri sauce before serving. The bright and herby flavors of the sauce complement the richness of the steak beautifully.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Chimichurri skirt steak pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Choose your favorite sides to complete the meal.
- Pair with a red wine: For a perfect pairing, serve the chimichurri skirt steak with a glass of red wine. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the steak and enhance the flavors.
- Enjoy the steak: Finally, sit back, relax, and savor every bite of the delicious chimichurri skirt steak. This flavorful and tender steak is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your chimichurri skirt steak is enjoyed to the fullest. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.
Q&A
What is chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri sauce is a popular green sauce from Argentina, made with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It is typically used as a marinade or condiment for grilled meats, such as steak.
How do I make chimichurri sauce?
To make chimichurri sauce, you will need the following ingredients: 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Allow the sauce to sit for at least 15 minutes before using to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy!
What is skirt steak?
Skirt steak is a cut of beef that comes from the plate section of the cow. It is a long, thin piece of meat with a loose grain and a rich, beefy flavor. Skirt steak is known for its tenderness and is often used in dishes like fajitas or grilled steak. It is also a popular choice for marinating due to its ability to absorb flavors.
How do I cook skirt steak?
To cook skirt steak, start by preheating your grill or skillet over high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend. Place the skirt steak on the grill or in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain to serve.
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
While skirt steak is the traditional choice for making chimichurri steak, you can definitely use other cuts of meat as well. Flank steak or sirloin steak would be good alternatives. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so adjust accordingly.