What To Know
- The flat iron steak, a hidden gem in the world of grilling, is a flavorful and affordable cut that delivers a satisfyingly tender bite.
- The flat iron steak, also known as the top blade steak, is a relatively recent addition to the butcher’s block.
- The key to grilling a perfect flat iron steak is to achieve a high, consistent heat.
The flat iron steak, a hidden gem in the world of grilling, is a flavorful and affordable cut that delivers a satisfyingly tender bite. Its unique marbling and lean profile make it perfect for grilling, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress. But mastering the art of grilling flat iron steak requires a few key techniques to ensure a perfectly cooked, delicious meal.
Understanding the Flat Iron Steak
The flat iron steak, also known as the top blade steak, is a relatively recent addition to the butcher’s block. It’s cut from the shoulder blade of the cow and has a distinctive grain running along its length. This grain is important to consider when cooking, as it influences the tenderness and texture of the final product.
Choosing the Right Flat Iron Steak
When selecting your flat iron steak, look for a cut with good marbling, indicating a flavorful and juicy steak. The meat should be firm to the touch and have a bright, red color. Avoid steaks that are dry or have a dull, grayish hue.
Prepping the Flat Iron Steak
Before grilling, there are a few essential steps to take to ensure a flavorful and tender steak:
1. Trim the Fat: While flat iron steak is naturally lean, there might be excess fat on the edges. Trimming this fat will help prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure even cooking.
2. Seasoning: Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of your flat iron steak. A simple salt and pepper seasoning is sufficient, but you can also experiment with herbs, spices, or even a dry rub. Apply the seasoning generously to all sides of the steak.
3. Allow to Rest: Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the meat to come to room temperature, resulting in more even cooking.
Setting Up the Grill
The key to grilling a perfect flat iron steak is to achieve a high, consistent heat. Here’s how to set up your grill:
1. Preheat: Preheat your gas grill to high heat (about 450-500°F) or your charcoal grill with hot coals.
2. Clean the Grates: Clean the grill grates with a wire brush to remove any debris or residue.
3. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the steak from sticking.
Grilling the Flat Iron Steak
Now comes the fun part: grilling the steak! Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked flat iron:
1. Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the hot grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. This creates a delicious crust and seals in the juices.
2. Reduce Heat: After searing, reduce the grill heat to medium (about 350°F) and continue cooking.
3. Cook to Desired Doneness: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F
- Well-Done: 160°F or higher
4. Rest the Steak: Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serving the Flat Iron Steak
After resting, slice the steak against the grain, which means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. This will make the steak easier to chew and more tender. Serve the flat iron steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Flat Iron Steak
While a simple salt and pepper seasoning is great, there are countless ways to elevate your flat iron steak:
1. Marinades: Marinades are a great way to add flavor and moisture to the steak. Experiment with different marinades, such as a citrus marinade, a soy-ginger marinade, or a red wine marinade.
2. Dry Rubs: Dry rubs are a great way to add a flavorful crust to the steak. There are endless dry rub combinations, but some popular options include a garlic-herb rub, a Cajun spice rub, or a coffee rub.
3. Glazes: Glazes are a great way to add a sweet and savory finish to the steak. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own. Popular glaze options include a honey-soy glaze, a balsamic glaze, or a maple-bourbon glaze.
The Grand Finale: A Farewell to the Flat Iron
Grilling a flat iron steak is a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. With a few key techniques and a little creativity, you can transform this affordable cut into a delicious and impressive meal. So, fire up your grill and let the aromas of a perfectly cooked flat iron steak fill the air!
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I grill flat iron steak on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills work great for grilling flat iron steak, just make sure to preheat it to high heat.
Q: How long should I grill a flat iron steak?
A: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with flat iron steak?
A: Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a simple salad are all great options.
Q: Can I marinate flat iron steak overnight?
A: Yes, you can marinate flat iron steak overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Q: How do I know if my flat iron steak is cooked to the right doneness?
A: The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Alternatively, you can use the touch method. Gently press the center of the steak.
- Rare: The steak will feel soft and jiggly.
- Medium-Rare: The steak will feel slightly firm but still springy.
- Medium: The steak will feel firmer, but not hard.
- Medium-Well: The steak will feel firm and springy.
- Well-Done: The steak will feel hard and dry.
