Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is to slow cook it in the oven, which results in a tender and juicy steak. Slow cooking allows the meat to cook at a low temperature for an extended period of time, allowing the connective tissues in the meat to break down and become tender.
When slow cooking flank steak in the oven, it’s important to marinate the meat beforehand to infuse it with flavor and help tenderize it. A simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce can work wonders. You can also add herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
To slow cook flank steak in the oven, preheat the oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C). Place the marinated steak in a baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. This will help trap the heat and moisture, ensuring a tender and juicy steak. Cook the steak for approximately 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Once the flank steak is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful steak. Serve the slow cooked flank steak with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Preparing the Flank Steak
Before cooking the flank steak, it is important to properly prepare it to enhance its flavors and ensure a tender and juicy result. Follow these steps to prepare your steak:
1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the flank steak. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any tough connective tissue as well.
2. To enhance the flavor of the meat, consider marinating the flank steak. You can use a pre-made marinade or create your own using a combination of ingredients such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. Place the flank steak and marinade in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, ensuring the meat is fully submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
3. Once the marinating time is complete, remove the flank steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature. This will help ensure even cooking and a more tender result.
4. Before transferring the flank steak to the oven, pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help promote browning and caramelization.
Now that your flank steak is properly prepared, you can proceed to cook it using a slow cooking method in the oven.
Trimming and Seasoning the Meat
Before slow cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to trim any excess fat from the meat. This will help to prevent flare-ups and increase the overall tenderness of the steak. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any visible fat on the edges or surface of the meat.
Once the meat is trimmed, it is time to season it. Creating a flavorful rub or marinade can greatly enhance the taste of the flank steak. Consider using a combination of herbs, spices, and other seasonings to add depth and complexity to the meat.
Creating a Seasoning Rub
To make a simple seasoning rub for the flank steak, combine the following ingredients:
- Salt and pepper: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper on all sides of the steak.
- Garlic powder: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Paprika: Include a teaspoon of paprika to add a smoky and slightly spicy element.
- Onion powder: Incorporate a teaspoon of onion powder to enhance the savory taste.
- Dried herbs: Consider adding a teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a fragrant and earthy note.
Combine all the ingredients together in a small bowl and mix well. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of the flank steak, ensuring that it is coated thoroughly.
Marinating the Flank Steak
If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can marinate the flank steak. Here’s a simple marinade recipe:
- Soy sauce: Mix half a cup of soy sauce with a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- Lemon juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the marinade for a tangy and citrusy taste.
- Minced garlic: Add two cloves of minced garlic for a robust flavor.
- Honey or brown sugar: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Black pepper: Sprinkle some black pepper into the marinade for added depth.
Place the trimmed flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Make sure the steak is thoroughly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a stronger flavor.
By trimming and seasoning the flank steak properly, you will ensure that it is tender, juicy, and packed with delicious flavors when slow cooked in the oven.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating is an essential step when it comes to slow cooking flank steak in the oven. It not only adds flavor to the meat but also helps tenderize it, making it more juicy and delicious.
Choose the Right Marinade
When selecting a marinade for flank steak, opt for one that contains an acidic component such as vinegar, lemon juice, or wine. The acid helps to break down the tough fibers of the meat, resulting in a more tender steak. You can choose from various marinades, including teriyaki, balsamic, or chimichurri, to name a few.
Marinating Time
The marinating time for flank steak depends on personal preference and the marinade you’re using. However, a good rule of thumb is to marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate into the meat. For even better results, marinate the steak overnight in the refrigerator. This extended marinating time will give the flavors more time to develop and the meat to become more tender.
Pro tip: Place the flank steak and the marinade in a resealable plastic bag. This allows for better coverage of the marinade and makes turning the steak easier.
Remember: Always marinate flank steak in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Cooking the Flank Steak
To cook the flank steak in the oven, follow these steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking temperature will help to tenderize the tough flank steak.
2. Season the flank steak with your preferred dry rub or marinade. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. Heat a large ovenproof skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add some oil to the pan and let it heat up.
4. Place the flank steak in the hot pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This will help to develop a delicious crust on the steak.
5. Transfer the pan with the seared flank steak to the preheated oven. Cook the steak for about 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook it to an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
6. Once the flank steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Allow the steak to rest for at least 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
7. After resting, thinly slice the flank steak against the grain. This will help to break down the tough muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
Now you can enjoy your perfectly cooked flank steak from the oven! Serve it alongside your favorite sides or use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
Preheating the Oven
Before you start cooking your flank steak in the oven, it’s important to preheat it to the correct temperature. Preheating the oven ensures that your steak will cook evenly and thoroughly. Here’s how to preheat your oven:
- Set the Temperature: Turn on your oven and set the temperature to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking temperature will help to tenderize the flank steak.
- Allow Time to Preheat: Give the oven about 10-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature. This will ensure that the oven is fully heated and ready to go.
- Do Not Open the Oven Door: While waiting for the oven to preheat, avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily. Opening the door can cause a drop in temperature and affect the cooking time.
Once your oven is preheated and ready, you can move on to preparing and cooking your slow-cooked flank steak. Remember to follow the recipe instructions carefully and enjoy your delicious and tender flank steak!
Slow Cooking the Steak
To slow cook flank steak in the oven, you’ll need to prepare it properly and give it enough time to cook low and slow, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Preparation
Before cooking the steak, it’s essential to marinate it. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. You can create a marinade using a combination of your favorite herbs, spices, and liquids like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Place the flank steak in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the steak is fully coated and then refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Cooking
Once the steak has marinated, it’s time to slow cook it. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C), as slow cooking requires a low heat setting. Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on a baking tray or in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil.
A great way to ensure the steak retains its moisture is by adding a liquid to the tray or pan. This can be beef broth, red wine, or even just water. Pour the liquid around the steak, being careful not to pour it directly over the meat.
Cover the tray or pan tightly with aluminum foil to create a sealed environment. This helps to trap the moisture and slow cook the steak evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 2-3 hours.
At the 2-hour mark, start checking the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. The desired temperature for a medium-rare steak is around 135°F (57°C) and for a medium steak, it’s around 145°F (63°C). Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak.
Once the steak reaches your preferred level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender. Before serving, remember to slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
Temperature | Doneness |
---|---|
135°F (57°C) | Medium-rare |
145°F (63°C) | Medium |
Q&A
What is the best way to slow cook flank steak in the oven?
The best way to slow cook flank steak in the oven is to marinate it first to enhance its flavour. Then, preheat the oven to a low temperature (around 275°F) and cook the steak for a long period of time, usually about 2-3 hours, until it becomes tender and juicy.
What should I use to marinate the flank steak before slow cooking?
You can marinate the flank steak with a variety of ingredients to add flavour. Some popular options include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices. You can also add a little bit of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to help tenderize the meat.
Can I slow cook a frozen flank steak in the oven?
It is not recommended to slow cook a frozen flank steak in the oven. It is best to thaw the steak thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent the steak from becoming tough. You can thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What temperature should I set the oven to when slow cooking a flank steak?
The oven should be set to a low temperature, usually around 275°F, when slow cooking a flank steak. Cooking at a low temperature for a longer period of time allows the meat to become tender and juicy. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches the desired doneness.
How can I make sure the flank steak is tender and not tough when slow cooked in the oven?
To ensure the flank steak is tender and not tough when slow cooked in the oven, make sure to cook it at a low temperature for a long period of time. This allows the meat to break down and become more tender. Additionally, marinating the steak before cooking can help to enhance its tenderness and flavour.
What is flank steak and how can I cook it?
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is often marinated and grilled, but it can also be slow cooked in the oven for a tender and juicy result. To slow cook flank steak in the oven, you can season it with your preferred spices, sear it in a hot pan, and then transfer it to a baking dish. Cover the steak with foil and cook it at a low temperature for several hours until it reaches your desired level of doneness. This method helps to break down the tough fibers in the meat and create a tender and delicious dish.