How To Cook The Juiciest Flat Iron Steak: A Step-by-step Guide

Flat iron steak, also known as shoulder petite tender or top blade steak, is a unique and flavorful cut of beef from the shoulder blade. Its name comes from its flat, triangular shape and resembles the soleplate of a flat iron. Despite its relatively lean composition, this cut offers exceptional tenderness and a robust beefy flavor.

Why is Flat Iron Steak Becoming Popular?

Flat iron steak is gaining popularity among home cooks and steak enthusiasts alike for several reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: Its rich, beefy flavor profile is comparable to more expensive cuts like ribeye or New York strip.
• Tenderness: Despite its leanness, flat iron steak is surprisingly tender and melts in your mouth.
• Affordability: Compared to other premium cuts, flat iron steak is relatively affordable, making it an excellent value for the money.
• Versatility: This versatile cut can be cooked using various methods, including grilling, pan-searing, or roasting.

How to Cook Flat Iron Steak

Cooking flat iron steak to perfection is relatively straightforward and can be achieved with a few simple steps:

1. Preparation

• Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
• Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning.

2. Grilling

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

3. Pan-Searing

• Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
• Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare.
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

4. Roasting

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Season the steak and place it on a roasting rack in a baking dish.
• Roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pairing Suggestions

Flat iron steak pairs well with various sides and sauces:

• Sides: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad
• Sauces: Chimichurri, horseradish sauce, or a classic steak sauce

Health Benefits of Flat Iron Steak

In addition to its exceptional taste, flat iron steak offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Flat iron steak is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Low in Fat: This lean cut contains minimal fat, making it a healthier choice compared to other cuts.
• Rich in Iron: Flat iron steak is a good source of iron, which is crucial for red blood cell production.

Summary: Flat Iron Steak – A Culinary Gem

Flat iron steak is an underrated cut of beef that deserves a place in every steak lover‘s repertoire. Its unique flavor, tenderness, and versatility make it a perfect choice for a variety of cooking methods. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or roasting, flat iron steak is sure to impress your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between flat iron steak and skirt steak?
Flat iron steak is leaner and more tender than skirt steak, and it has a more intense beefy flavor.

2. Can I marinate flat iron steak?
Yes, marinating flat iron steak for a few hours or overnight can enhance its flavor and tenderness.

3. What is the best way to slice flat iron steak?
Slice flat iron steak against the grain to create tender and flavorful bites.

4. How long should I let flat iron steak rest before slicing?
Allowing flat iron steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.

5. Can I cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker on low heat for 6-8 hours or until tender.