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The Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ 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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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.