How to Grill Flank Steak on Big Green Egg
Are you ready to become a master griller?
In this article, we will show you how to grill a mouthwatering flank steak on your Big Green Egg.
With our step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn everything from selecting the perfect cut of meat to achieving the ideal internal temperature.
So grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with a perfectly grilled flank steak that will have them coming back for seconds.
Let’s get grilling!
Table of Contents
Selecting the Perfect Flank Steak
You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a flank steak that is well-marbled and about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for the perfect grilled result.
When it comes to grilling flank steak, selecting the right cut of meat is crucial. Look for a piece that has visible marbling throughout, as this will help keep the steak juicy and flavorful during cooking. Additionally, opt for a steak that is about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
In terms of cooking techniques, grilling is the way to go for flank steak. The high heat of the grill allows for a quick sear while still maintaining the juicy interior. Before grilling, it’s important to properly season the steak. You can go for a simple seasoning of salt and pepper to let the natural flavors of the meat shine through. Alternatively, you can experiment with different spice rubs or marinades to add a burst of flavor. Just make sure to season the steak at least 30 minutes before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preparing the Flank Steak for Grilling
To ensure your flank steak is tender and flavorful, start by marinating it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
Here are some tips to help you prepare your flank steak for grilling:
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Choose a flavorful marinade: Use a marinade that complements the natural flavors of the steak. You can opt for a simple combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, or experiment with more complex flavors like teriyaki or chimichurri.
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Season generously: Before grilling, season your flank steak with a blend of spices and herbs. A combination of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder works well, but feel free to get creative and use your favorite seasonings.
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Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the steak. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and develops a nice sear on the outside.
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Grill over direct heat: Place the flank steak directly over the heat source and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
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Let it rest: After grilling, let the flank steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Marinating the Flank Steak
When marinating the flank steak, make sure to choose a flavorful marinade that will enhance the taste of the meat. There are several marinade options you can consider, such as a soy-based marinade with garlic and ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor, or a tangy marinade with lemon juice and herbs for a fresh and zesty taste. The key is to choose a marinade that complements the natural flavors of the steak and adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
Once you have decided on the marinade, it’s time to marinate the flank steak. Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure to coat the meat evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, marinate the steak for 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
During the marinating time, make sure to flip the bag occasionally to ensure even distribution of the marinade. This will help to infuse the flavors throughout the steak and tenderize the meat.
When the marinating time is up, remove the steak from the bag and discard any leftover marinade. Pat the steak dry with paper towels before grilling to ensure a nice sear and prevent any excess moisture from interfering with the cooking process.
Preheating the Big Green Egg
Make sure that before firing up the grill, you preheat the Big Green Egg to the desired temperature for optimal cooking results. Preheating is a crucial step that ensures even cooking and delicious flavor. Here are some benefits of preheating and tips for temperature control:
- Improved Cooking Performance: Preheating allows the grill to reach the desired temperature, ensuring that your flank steak cooks evenly and to perfection.
- Enhanced Flavor: Preheating helps to sear the steak quickly, locking in the juices and creating a delicious charred crust.
- Time-Saving: By preheating the grill, you can reduce the cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy your perfectly grilled flank steak sooner.
- Temperature Control: Preheating allows you to gauge and control the temperature more accurately, ensuring that your steak is cooked to your liking.
- Safety: Preheating helps to kill any bacteria or contaminants that may be present on the grill grates, ensuring that your flank steak is safe to consume.
To preheat the Big Green Egg, follow these simple steps:
- Open the vents on the bottom and top of the grill to allow for proper airflow.
- Place the charcoal in the grill, arranging it in a pyramid shape.
- Use a chimney starter or an electric starter to ignite the charcoal.
- Once the charcoal is ignited, close the lid and let the grill preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Adjust the vents to achieve the desired temperature for grilling your flank steak.
Grilling the Flank Steak on the Big Green Egg
For optimal results, you’ll want to ensure the grill is preheated to the desired temperature before placing your seasoned meat on it. Grilling flank steak on the Big Green Egg is a delicious and flavorful experience. With the right grilling techniques and flavor variations, you can elevate this classic cut of meat to a whole new level.
To achieve the perfect grilled flank steak, it’s important to know the proper cooking times and temperatures. The table below provides a handy guide for grilling temperatures based on the desired level of doneness:
Doneness Level | Internal Temperature |
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Rare | 125°F – 130°F |
Medium Rare | 130°F – 135°F |
Medium | 135°F – 145°F |
Medium Well | 145°F – 155°F |
Well Done | 155°F – 165°F |
Once you’ve preheated the grill and seasoned your flank steak to your liking, place it on the grill and cook according to your desired level of doneness. Remember to flip the steak only once during the cooking process to ensure even heat distribution.
To add flavor variations, you can experiment with different marinades or dry rubs. Some popular options include a tangy barbecue marinade, a zesty citrus marinade, or a savory garlic and herb rub. Let the flavors marinate for a few hours before grilling to enhance the taste.
Grilling flank steak on the Big Green Egg is a delightful way to enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal. By following these grilling techniques and exploring different flavor variations, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Achieving the Perfect Internal Temperature
Now that you’ve grilled your flank steak on the Big Green Egg, it’s time to focus on achieving the perfect internal temperature. This is crucial for ensuring that your steak is cooked to perfection. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
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Use a meat thermometer: Invest in a high-quality meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature of your steak. This will help you avoid undercooking or overcooking it.
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Let it rest: After grilling, allow your steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
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Season well: Prior to grilling, make sure to season your flank steak generously with your favorite spices, herbs, and marinades. This will enhance the flavor of your steak.
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Avoid common grilling mistakes: Be mindful of common grilling mistakes, such as grilling over high heat for too long or constantly flipping the steak. These can result in an unevenly cooked or dry steak.
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Practice and adapt: Grilling is a skill that takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Take note of what worked and what didn’t, and adjust your technique for future grilling sessions.
Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak
After allowing it to rest, slice the perfectly cooked flank steak for serving. Resting time is a crucial step in ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak. Once you have removed the steak from the grill, let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent steak.
To slice the flank steak, it is important to use the right technique. Start by locating the grain of the meat. The grain refers to the lines that run through the steak. It is important to slice against the grain to ensure tenderness. Holding a sharp knife at a slight angle, begin slicing the steak across the grain into thin slices. Take your time and make sure each slice is consistent in thickness.
When serving the flank steak, arrange the slices on a platter or individual plates. If desired, you can garnish the steak with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt. The beautifully sliced steak is now ready to be enjoyed.
Serving and Enjoying the Grilled Flank Steak
To fully savor the delicious flavors, take a bite of the tenderly sliced and beautifully garnished flank steak on your plate. The perfectly grilled meat is a culinary masterpiece that deserves to be enjoyed to the fullest. Here are some suggestions on how to enhance your dining experience:
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve the flank steak with a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, to complement its rich flavors.
- For a refreshing contrast, pair it with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables to add a touch of lightness to the meal.
- Consider serving it alongside a creamy potato gratin or a buttery risotto for a sumptuous and indulgent feast.
- If you prefer a zesty twist, accompany the steak with a chimichurri sauce or a tangy salsa verde to add a burst of flavor.
- For a simple and classic combination, serve the flank steak with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- If you don’t have a grill, you can sear the flank steak on a hot cast-iron skillet for a delicious crust.
- Try marinating the flank steak overnight to infuse it with extra flavor before grilling or searing.
- Consider using a sous vide machine to cook the flank steak to a precise temperature before finishing it off on the grill for a perfect char.
- If you’re short on time, you can broil the flank steak in the oven for a quick and tasty alternative.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create your own unique flavor profile.
Now, with these pairing suggestions and alternative cooking methods in mind, sit back, relax, and enjoy every juicy and tender bite of your grilled flank steak. It’s a culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, grilling flank steak on the Big Green Egg is a delicious and satisfying experience. By selecting the perfect cut of meat, preparing it properly, marinating it to enhance flavor, and grilling it on the Big Green Egg, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful steak.
Remember to monitor the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. After resting and slicing the steak, serve it up and enjoy the mouthwatering results of your grilling skills.
Happy grilling!