The Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Imagine this: a warm summer evening, the grill is sizzling, and the smell of marinated flank steak fills the air. You gather around a table adorned with friends, fresh vegetables, and laughter. There's simply something magical about sharing a delicious meal outdoors. 

Flank steak, with its rich beefy flavor, naturally becomes the star of the show when it’s marinated just right. In this article, I'm excited to share my go-to marinade recipe that will elevate your flank steak game to new heights.

What is the Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe?

Flank steak is a versatile cut of beef that benefits immensely from marinating. It’s lean, flavorful, and when cooked properly, it’s tender and juicy. The secret ingredient? A well-crafted marinade that seeps into the meat, breaking down the fibers and infusing it with flavor.

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The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the ultimate flank steak marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds flank steak (you can go up to 2 pounds for bigger gatherings)
  
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
  
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (regular will also do if you want a stronger flavor)
  
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (this adds depth)
  
• ¼ cup light olive oil (or another neutral oil for a different twist)
  
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a little zing)
  
• 1 tablespoon lightly packed brown sugar (to balance the savory with a hint of sweetness)
  
• 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar (the aged kind adds a fantastic complexity)
  
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it!)
  
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (brings everything together)
  
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for some heat)
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but gives a nice subtle smokiness)
  
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional for that herby aroma)
  

How to Make the Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s chat briefly about the magic of marinating. This process isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about tenderness. The ingredients work together to break down tough fibers in the steak. With the right blend, your flank steak can become a tender delight that melts in your mouth.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, gather all your ingredients. You can take a moment to admire the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas. There’s something so rewarding about prepping fresh ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Use a whisk to blend everything smoothly. It’s fun watching those ingredients come together, creating a glossy marinade.

Step 3: Add the Herbs and Spices

Add in the dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and fresh rosemary (if you’re using it). Give it another good whisk. The mixture should have a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

Step 4: Prep the Flank Steak

Place your flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a suitable dish. You want to ensure the marinade covers every inch of the meat.

Step 5: Pour in the Marinade

Now, pour the marinade over the flank steak. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. This is where the magic happens. Move the steak around a bit to ensure it’s evenly coated.

Step 6: Marinade Time

Refrigerate the marinating flank steak for at least 2 hours. For even better results, aim for overnight. This gives ample time for the flavors to penetrate.

Step 7: Prep for Grilling

When you’re ready to cook, take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes to come to room temperature. This will help with even cooking.

Step 8: Grill Away

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for precision – 135°F is perfect for medium-rare.

Step 9: Rest and Slice

Once the steak is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This important step retains the juices. Then, slice it against the grain. This ensures maximum tenderness.

Notes

• Let it Chill: Letting meat marinate overnight helps deepen the flavors.
  
• Don’t Skip the Resting: Resting your steak before slicing is crucial for juiciness.
  
• Save Leftover Marinade: If you want to make a sauce, heat leftover marinade (boil to kill bacteria) and serve it on the side.
  
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, go for fresh herbs and garlic. They add an extra burst of flavor.
  
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the marinade to suit your taste.
  

Storage Tips

• Marinated Steak: If you have leftover marinated steak, store it tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated steak. Just make sure to place it in an airtight bag to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 3 months.
  
• Defrosting: Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
  

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional content per serving (based on a 4 oz piece of flank steak):

• Calories: 250
  
• Protein: 27g
  
• Total Fat: 15g
  
• Saturated Fat: 4g
  
• Carbohydrates: 4g
  
• Fiber: 0g
  
• Sugar: 1g
  
• Sodium: 600mg
  

Serving Suggestions

Flank steak is incredibly versatile. Here are five delicious ways to serve it:

• Tacos: Slice the grilled flank steak and serve in corn tortillas with fresh avocado, cilantro, lime, and salsa. This combo is unbeatable for Taco Tuesday!
  
• Salad: Create a hearty salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and blue cheese. Top it with sliced flank steak for a satisfying meal.
  
• Sandwiches: Use the steak to make sandwiches. Add grilled onions and peppers, then top with your favorite cheese. Toast it up for a melty delight!
  
• Stir-Fry: Thinly slice the flank steak and toss it in a stir-fry with colorful veggies and soy sauce. Serve over rice or noodles.
  
• Pasta Dish: Combine sliced steak with pasta, fresh vegetables, and a light olive oil dressing. It’s a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe?

If you need alternatives to the ingredients listed, here are five suggestions:

• Garlic Powder: You can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if you don’t have any on hand. It will save time and still bring flavor.
  
• Coconut Aminos: If you’re soy-free or gluten-free, coconut aminos is a great substitute for soy sauce. It has a slightly sweeter taste but works well in marinades.
  
• Red Wine Vinegar: Replace balsamic with red wine vinegar for a sharper flavor. It will alter the profile slightly but still provide balance.
  
• Honey: If you want to swap out brown sugar, honey is an excellent alternative. Just remember that it is sweeter, so you might need a little less.
  
• Rosemary Essential Oil: In a pinch, you might consider using a drop of rosemary essential oil instead of fresh rosemary. Just be cautious with the quantity.
  

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple yet transformative marinade that can take your flank steak from ordinary to extraordinary. Sharing a meal is a delightful way to create memories, and with this marinade, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family alike. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Now grab that flank steak, fire up the grill, and savor the goodness! Happy cooking!

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