Elevate your culinary skills: master the art of cooking flank steak in a slow cooker
What To Know
- This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook flank steak in a crock pot, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
- The first step to cooking flank steak in a crock pot is selecting the right cut.
- Marinate the flank steak overnight in a flavorful mixture before cooking it in the crock pot.
Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that’s perfect for slow cooking. Its tough fibers become tender and juicy when cooked low and slow in a crock pot. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook flank steak in a crock pot, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
Choosing the Right Flank Steak
The first step to cooking flank steak in a crock pot is selecting the right cut. Look for flank steak that is at least 1 inch thick and has a deep red color. Avoid flank steak that is too thin or has a lot of fat.
Seasoning the Flank Steak
Once you have selected your flank steak, it’s time to season it. There are many different ways to season flank steak, but a simple combination of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices will do the trick. You can also marinate the flank steak overnight in a flavorful mixture to enhance its flavor.
Browning the Flank Steak
Before placing the flank steak in the crock pot, it’s important to brown it on all sides. This will help to seal in the juices and create a flavorful crust. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the flank steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned.
Cooking the Flank Steak in the Crock Pot
Once the flank steak is browned, it’s time to cook it in the crock pot. Place the flank steak in the crock pot and add any desired liquids, such as beef broth or water. You can also add vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the crock pot for added flavor.
Cook the flank steak on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the flank steak and your desired level of doneness.
Checking for Doneness
To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the flank steak. The steak is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, or 155 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-well.
Slicing and Serving the Flank Steak
Once the flank steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve the flank steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
Tips for Cooking Flank Steak in a Crock Pot
- Don’t overcook the flank steak. Overcooked flank steak will become tough and chewy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This is the most accurate way to ensure that the flank steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Let the flank steak rest before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
- Slice the flank steak against the grain. This will help to make the steak more tender.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. There are many different ways to season flank steak, so find a combination that you enjoy.
Variations on Cooking Flank Steak in a Crock Pot
There are many different ways to cook flank steak in a crock pot. Here are a few variations:
- Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Vegetables: Add vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the crock pot along with the flank steak. This will create a flavorful and healthy meal.
- Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Gravy: Make a simple gravy to serve with the flank steak. This will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Marinade: Marinate the flank steak overnight in a flavorful mixture before cooking it in the crock pot. This will help to enhance the flavor of the steak.
“Flank You Very Much” for Reading!
We hope that this guide has helped you to learn how to cook flank steak in a crock pot. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create tender and flavorful flank steak that your family and friends will love.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the best way to season flank steak?
A: There are many different ways to season flank steak, but a simple combination of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices will do the trick. You can also marinate the flank steak overnight in a flavorful mixture to enhance its flavor.
Q: How long should I cook flank steak in a crock pot?
A: Cook the flank steak on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the flank steak and your desired level of doneness.
Q: How do I check for doneness?
A: To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the flank steak. The steak is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, or 155 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-well.