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November 17, 2024
Skirt steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is perfect for grilling or searing. The outside skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow and is known for its rich marbling and intense beef flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking outside skirt steak can be a delicious and rewarding experience.
Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the outside skirt steak. Begin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. This will prevent the steak from becoming tough and chewy. Additionally, you can marinate the steak to enhance its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper works well with outside skirt steak.
When cooking outside skirt steak, it’s best to use high heat methods such as grilling or searing. These methods will help to bring out the flavor and create a delicious crust on the steak. To grill the steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the steak on the grill grates. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare or 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
If you prefer to sear the steak, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and place the steak in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare or 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Just like with grilling, it’s important to let the steak rest before slicing.
Tip: To achieve the perfect doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 130°F (54°C), and for medium, it should be around 140°F (60°C).
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. Outside skirt steak is best served with a simple chimichurri sauce or salsa verde to enhance its flavors. Enjoy!
Preparing the outside skirt steak
Before you start cooking the outside skirt steak, it is important to properly prepare it for grilling. Follow these steps to ensure a flavorful and tender result:
1. Trim the excess fat
Prior to cooking, trim any excess fat from the outside skirt steak. Fat can cause flare-ups on the grill and can result in uneven cooking. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the fat, leaving a thin layer to enhance the flavor.
2. Marinate the steak
To enhance the flavor and tenderness of the outside skirt steak, marinate it in your desired marinade. You can choose from a variety of marinades, such as a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, or a more complex combination of soy sauce, lime juice, and spices. Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that the entire steak is coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
| Tip: | To tenderize the outside skirt steak further, you can also use a meat tenderizer or a marinade containing acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice. |
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Choosing the cut
When cooking outside skirt steak, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. Skirt steak comes from the plate section of the cow and is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. There are two types of skirt steak: outside skirt steak and inside skirt steak. While both cuts are delicious, the outside skirt steak is more popular for grilling and barbecuing because it has a higher fat content, which helps to keep the steak juicy and flavorful.
When selecting an outside skirt steak, look for a piece that is bright red in color with a good amount of marbling. The marbling, or streaks of fat throughout the meat, will help to enhance the steak’s flavor. Avoid selecting a piece that has too much fat or connective tissue, as this can make the steak tough and chewy.
It is also important to consider the size of the skirt steak you are purchasing. Skirt steaks are usually long and narrow in shape, so it is best to choose a steak that is at least 1 1/2 inches thick. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and remains tender.
Overall, when choosing an outside skirt steak, look for bright red color, good marbling, and a thickness of at least 1 1/2 inches. By selecting the right cut of meat, you can ensure that your outside skirt steak will turn out juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Trimming excess fat
Before cooking outside skirt steak, it’s important to trim excess fat to ensure a tender and flavorful outcome. Follow these steps to get rid of any unnecessary fat:
1. Gather your tools
Grab a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a trash bag or container to discard the trimmed fat.
2. Identify the excess fat
Take a close look at the skirt steak and identify any areas with excessive fat. These are usually the thicker, white or yellowish portions.
3. Start trimming
Place the skirt steak on the cutting board and hold it firmly with one hand. With the other hand, gently glide the knife parallel to the cutting board to remove the excess fat. Make sure to trim as close to the meat as possible without cutting into the steak itself.
Note: Be cautious while handling the knife to avoid any accidents. Always keep your fingers away from the cutting edge.
4. Discard the trimmed fat
As you trim the fat, place the trimmed pieces directly into the trash bag or container to avoid any mess. This way, you can easily dispose of them later.
By trimming excess fat from the outside skirt steak, you’ll not only improve the overall taste and texture but also reduce the risk of flare-ups on the grill. Once the fat is trimmed, your steak is ready to be marinated and cooked according to your recipe of choice!
Marinating the outside skirt steak
Marinating the outside skirt steak is an essential step to enhance its flavor and tenderness. A good marinade can infuse the meat with delicious flavors, making it even more enjoyable to eat.
Here is a simple and tasty marinade recipe for your outside skirt steak:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, and black pepper until well combined.
- Place the outside skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is completely coated. You can use a brush or your hands to rub the marinade into the meat.
- Cover the steak and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
- When ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and discard the excess liquid.
Note: It’s important to discard the marinade that has been in contact with the raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.
Your outside skirt steak is now marinated and ready to be cooked to perfection!
Selecting the marinade
Marinating your outside skirt steak is key to infusing it with flavor and tenderizing the meat. There are endless options when it comes to selecting the right marinade for your steak, and it really comes down to personal preference and the flavors you enjoy.
Here are a few popular marinade ideas to get you started:
1. Classic Soy Sauce Marinade
This simple and versatile marinade consists of soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and a touch of black pepper. The salty, savory taste of the soy sauce pairs perfectly with the beefy flavor of outside skirt steak.
2. Citrus Marinade
If you prefer a bright and refreshing marinade, citrus flavors like lemon or lime are your best bet. Combine freshly squeezed citrus juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a zesty marinade that will complement the steak beautifully.
3. Teriyaki Marinade
For an Asian-inspired twist, try using a teriyaki marinade. Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic for a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs well with the rich taste of outside skirt steak.
Regardless of the marinade you choose, make sure to marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat while ensuring it doesn’t become too tenderized and lose its texture.
Remember to reserve some marinade separately to brush onto the steak while grilling for an extra burst of flavor. Happy cooking!
Marinating the steak
Marinating the steak is a crucial step to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the outside skirt steak. Follow these steps to marinate the steak:
- In a large bowl, combine your choice of marinade ingredients. This can include a combination of acidic ingredients like lime or vinegar, oil, herbs, spices, and your favorite seasonings.
- Place the outside skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or a glass dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible. If using a glass dish, cover it with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the steak for at least 1 hour or overnight. The longer you marinate the steak, the more flavorful it will become. Make sure to flip the steak halfway through marination to ensure even flavor distribution.
Once the steak has finished marinating, it is ready for grilling or cooking according to your preferred method. Remember to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
FAQ
What is outside skirt steak?
Outside skirt steak is a type of beef cut that comes from the lower part of the cow’s chest area. It is known for its rich and beefy flavor.
How do I choose a good outside skirt steak?
When choosing a good outside skirt steak, look for one that has good marbling and a bright red color. It should also feel firm to the touch.
What is the best way to marinate outside skirt steak?
The best way to marinate outside skirt steak is to combine ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for maximum flavor.
How long should I grill outside skirt steak?
Grill outside skirt steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare.
What are some serving suggestions for outside skirt steak?
Some serving suggestions for outside skirt steak include slicing it thinly and serving it in tacos, making steak sandwiches, or serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.