Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, is a popular choice for grilling enthusiasts. With its rich, beefy flavor and firm texture, it’s a delight to cook and devour. However, achieving the perfect level of doneness can be a challenge, especially for those new to grilling. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of flank steak grilling, exploring the ideal cooking times and techniques to ensure a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy result on your gas grill.
Understanding Flank Steak
Before we dive into the grilling process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of flank steak. This cut of beef comes from the belly of the cow, near the hind legs. It’s a long, flat cut, typically weighing between 1-2 pounds, and is known for its bold flavor and coarse texture. Flank steak is often used in fajitas, steak salads, and as a standalone grilled dish.
The Importance of Trim and Marbling
When selecting a flank steak, look for one with a good balance of trim and marbling. Trim refers to the amount of fat surrounding the meat, while marbling is the intramuscular fat that’s dispersed throughout the meat. A moderate amount of marbling will contribute to a more tender and flavorful steak, as it adds moisture and richness during cooking.
Preparing the Flank Steak for Grilling
Before grilling, it’s crucial to prepare the flank steak properly to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. Here are a few essential steps to follow:
Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the meat to cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Season the Steak
Generously season the flank steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also marinate the steak in your favorite marinade for a few hours or overnight to add extra flavor.
Pat the Steak Dry
Use paper towels to pat the flank steak dry, removing excess moisture from the surface. This helps create a better crust on the steak during grilling.
Grilling the Flank Steak: Cooking Times and Techniques
Now that the flank steak is prepared, it’s time to fire up the gas grill and get cooking! When grilling flank steak, it’s essential to cook it to the correct internal temperature to ensure food safety and optimal flavor.
Internal Temperature Guidelines
For medium-rare, cook the flank steak to an internal temperature of 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C). For medium, aim for 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C), and for medium-well, cook to 150°F – 155°F (66°C – 68°C).
Gas Grill Cooking Times
The cooking time for flank steak on a gas grill will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your grill. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- For a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick flank steak, cook for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat (400°F – 425°F or 200°C – 220°C).
- For a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) thick flank steak, cook for 7-9 minutes per side over medium-high heat (400°F – 425°F or 200°C – 220°C).
- For a 2-inch (5 cm) thick flank steak, cook for 9-11 minutes per side over medium-high heat (400°F – 425°F or 200°C – 220°C).
Grilling Techniques
To achieve a beautifully grilled flank steak, follow these techniques:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Sear the steak: Place the flank steak on the grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. This locks in the juices and adds flavor.
- Finish cooking: After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low (350°F – 375°F or 175°C – 190°C) and continue cooking to the desired internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Once cooked, remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations for Grilled Flank Steak
To take your grilled flank steak to the next level, try these tips and variations:
Fajita-Style Grilled Flank Steak
Slice the flank steak into thin strips and grill with sliced onions and bell peppers. Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas, sour cream, and salsa.
Asian-Glazed Flank Steak
Marinate the flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Grill the steak to desired doneness, then brush with the marinade during the last minute of cooking. Serve with steamed vegetables and sticky rice.
Grilled Flank Steak Salad
Grill the flank steak to desired doneness, then slice it thinly. Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and a homemade vinaigrette.
Conclusion
Grilling the perfect flank steak requires attention to detail, patience, and practice. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy flank steak on your gas grill. Remember to always prioritize food safety, cook to the correct internal temperature, and let the steak rest before slicing and serving. Happy grilling!
What is the ideal internal temperature for grilled flank steak?
The ideal internal temperature for grilled flank steak ranges from 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C) for medium-rare, 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C) for medium, and 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C) for medium-well. However, the safe internal temperature for beef is at least 145°F (63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Keep in mind that the internal temperature will continue to rise by about 5°F to 10°F (3°C to 6°C) after the steak is removed from the grill, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking. This will help you achieve a more tender and juicy flank steak.
How do I season a flank steak before grilling?
Before grilling, season the flank steak with a mixture of salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
When seasoning the steak, make sure to coat it evenly on both sides. You can also let the steak marinate in your favorite marinade for several hours or overnight to add more flavor. However, be sure to pat the steak dry with paper towels before grilling to prevent flare-ups.
What is the best way to preheat a gas grill for grilling flank steak?
To preheat a gas grill for grilling flank steak, turn the burners to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 425°F or 200°C to 220°C). Let the grill preheat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the grates are hot and slightly charred.
Once the grill is preheated, scrub the grates with a grill brush to remove any debris or residue. You can also brush the grates with oil to prevent the steak from sticking. This will help create a nice sear on the steak and prevent it from sticking to the grill.
How long do I need to grill a flank steak on a gas grill?
The grilling time for a flank steak on a gas grill will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, grill the steak for about 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium-rare, 7 to 9 minutes per side for medium, and 9 to 11 minutes per side for medium-well.
Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the steak and adjust the grilling time accordingly. You may need to adjust the heat or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to prevent overcooking.
Do I need to rest the flank steak after grilling?
Yes, it’s essential to let the flank steak rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after grilling. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it more tender and flavorful.
During the resting period, cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil to retain the heat. You can also let it rest at room temperature or in a warm area. Be patient and let the steak rest for the recommended time to ensure a more enjoyable dining experience.
Can I grill a flank steak on a gas grill with a lid?
Yes, you can grill a flank steak on a gas grill with a lid, but it’s not necessary. Grilling with a lid can help cook the steak faster and more evenly, especially for thicker steaks. However, it may also lead to overcooking or steaming the steak instead of getting a nice sear.
If you choose to grill with a lid, make sure to adjust the heat and grilling time accordingly. You may need to reduce the heat and cooking time to prevent overcooking.
What is the best way to slice a grilled flank steak?
The best way to slice a grilled flank steak is against the grain, or perpendicular to the lines of muscle on the steak. This will make the steak more tender and easier to chew.
To slice the steak, place it on a cutting board and locate the lines of muscle. Slice the steak in thin strips, about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick, using a sharp knife. This will help you achieve a more uniform and visually appealing slice of grilled flank steak.