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Looking for knockout flank steak? This marinade is my go-to trick! A blend of sweet, rich flavors with a hint of citrus - it transforms this affordable cut into what feels like high-end dining. The best part? You'll have this meal ready in less than an hour!
What Makes This Method Special
The real wonder starts when these basic ingredients combine - zesty citrus softens the meat while soy sauce brings deep umami flavors. Cook it with intense heat and you'll get that gorgeous browned exterior while keeping everything tender inside. It's become such a hit that my family begs for it every week!
Your Shopping List
- Quality Olive Oil: Go for the good stuff - it adds moisture throughout.
- Soy Sauce: Either standard or tamari does the job well.
- Citrus Juice: I prefer lime, but try lemon if that's what you've got.
- Brown Sugar: Just a bit creates wonderful browning.
- The Meat: Try to find flank steak with consistent thickness.
Step-By-Step Guide
- Create Your Blend
- Take a container and mix your oil, soy sauce, citrus, and brown sugar together. Don't worry if the sugar stays a bit grainy - that's perfectly normal!
- Marinating Time
- Place your steak in a container or sealable bag, add the mixture, and make sure it covers everything. Stick it in the fridge - half an hour works fine, but leaving it for 2 hours gives even better results.
- Get Cooking
- Heat your grill or broiler until it's super hot. Remove your steak, dry it thoroughly (this really matters!), and add a touch of seasoning. Cook about 5 minutes each side for medium-rare doneness.
- Crucial Waiting Period
- Allow your gorgeous steak to sit for 5-10 minutes - this keeps all the juiciness inside. Then cut thin slices against the grain direction.
Insider Tricks
After cooking this countless times, here's what works best: Grab a meat thermometer - aim for 130°F for perfect medium-rare. Always thoroughly dry the meat before cooking or you won't get that nice sear. And slicing against the grain isn't just fancy talk - it actually makes every bite more tender!
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Storing Extras
Any leftover meat stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days. I actually enjoy it cold in salads, but warming it gently works too. It's fantastic for quick tacos or adding to stir-fries during the week.
Perfect Pairings
We typically enjoy this with crispy potatoes and a fresh salad, but it works with so many things! Cut it thin for amazing tacos, toss it in a stir-fry, or dice it up for the tastiest steak and eggs you've ever had. Sometimes I think the next-day meals are even tastier than the original dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I let it marinate?
Let it soak for at least half an hour, but don’t go over 2 hours to avoid making it too mushy.
- → What's the reason for drying the steak?
Drying it helps you get a nice sear on the steak instead of steaming it.
- → Can I swap the lime for another citrus?
You sure can! Substitute lime juice with lemon in the same amount if needed.
- → Should I add extra salt?
Only a tiny pinch is necessary since soy sauce already brings saltiness to the mix.
- → What temp is best for cooking?
Aim for 130°F inside for juicy medium-rare. Don’t forget to let it rest before slicing.