Best Alberta Flank Steak Recipes

What is Alberta Flank Steak?

Alberta flank steak is a popular cut of beef that is sourced from the flank area of the animal. It is known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture, which makes it a favorite among steak lovers. The Alberta beef industry is known for producing some of the best beef in the world, and this cut is no exception.

Why is Alberta Flank Steak so Popular?

There are many reasons why Alberta flank steak is so popular. Firstly, it is a versatile cut that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling and broiling to pan-frying and roasting. This means that it can be used in a wide range of recipes, making it a go-to cut for many chefs and home cooks.

Furthermore, Alberta flank steak is known for its flavor and tenderness. This is because the cut comes from a well-exercised muscle that is lean and flavorful. However, because it is a lean cut, it is important to cook it properly so that it doesn't become tough and chewy.

Finally, Alberta flank steak is a healthy option for those who are conscious about their diet. The cut is relatively low in fat and high in protein, making it a great choice for those who are trying to build muscle or lose weight.

How to Cook Alberta Flank Steak

There are many ways to cook Alberta flank steak, depending on your tastes and preferences. Here are some popular methods:

Grilling

Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook Alberta flank steak. To prepare the steak for grilling, marinate it in your favorite mixture of herbs and spices for at least an hour. Preheat your grill to high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pan-Frying

Pan-frying is another great way to cook Alberta flank steak. Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Roasting

Roasting is a great option for cooking larger pieces of Alberta flank steak. Preheat your oven to 400°F and rub the steak with your favorite seasonings. Place the steak on a roasting rack in a baking dish and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until cooked to your liking. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipes for Alberta Flank Steak

There are many delicious recipes that use Alberta flank steak as the main ingredient. Here are some ideas:

Marinated Alberta Flank Steak

This recipe uses a simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to add flavor and tenderness to the steak.

• 1 pound Alberta flank steak
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and olive oil.
2. Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak, turning to coat both sides.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
4. Preheat your grill to high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Alberta Flank Steak Fajitas

Fajitas are a classic Mexican dish that is perfect for using up leftover Alberta flank steak. This recipe is easy and flavorful.

• 1 pound Alberta flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• Toppings of your choice (sour cream, guacamole, salsa, etc.)

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced steak and seasonings to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the steak is heated through and cooked to your liking.
4. Serve the fajitas with warmed tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Herb-Crusted Alberta Flank Steak

This recipe uses a simple herb crust to add flavor and texture to the steak.

• 1 pound Alberta flank steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Rub the steak with the chopped herbs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Sear the steak in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to your liking.
6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Alberta flank steak is a delicious and versatile cut of beef that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Whether you prefer it grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, there are many ways to prepare this flavorful and tender cut. So next time you're in the mood for steak, give Alberta flank steak a try and discover why it's one of the best cuts of beef around!

Tip 1: Proper Marination

Some tips for proper marination:

• Marinate the steak for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight to get the best results
• Make sure the steak is submerged in the marinade and keep it refrigerated while marinating
• Don’t marinate for too long as it will result in the steak being too tender and mushy
• Use a resealable plastic bag for marinating as it’s easy to use and doesn’t make a mess
• Pat the steak dry before cooking to prevent any excess marinade from burning on the grill

Tip 2: Proper Cooking Techniques

Some tips for proper cooking techniques:

• Preheat your grill or stovetop to high heat
• Season the steak with salt and pepper before cooking
• Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak, or 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium steak
• Use a meat thermometer to check for the internal temperature. A medium-rare steak should have an internal temperature of 130-135°F, and a medium steak should be around 140-145°F
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This will help to redistribute the juices and make the steak tender and juicy

Tip 3: Proper Slicing

Some tips for proper slicing:

• Identify the direction of the grain on the steak. The grain runs the length of the steak in the same direction as the muscle fibers.
• Cut the steak against the grain into thin, angled slices.
• Use a sharp knife to make clean, precise cuts.
• Slice the steak on a diagonal to create larger slices, making it easier to chew.
• Slice the steak just before serving to prevent it from drying out.

Tip 4: Proper Seasoning

Some tips for proper seasoning:

• Season the steak with salt and pepper before cooking
• Experiment with other herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder
• Season the steak with olive oil after cooking to add some richness and flavor
• Don’t overseason the steak as it can overpower the natural flavor of the meat
• Season the steak to your taste preference and adjust accordingly

Tip 5: Proper Pairing

Some tips for proper pairing:

• Pair the steak with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes
• Serve the steak with a glass of red wine such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot, or malbec
• Pair the steak with a light beer or a dark ale to complement the flavors of the meat
• Finish the meal with a light dessert such as fruit, sorbet, or a cheese board
• Pair the steak with side dishes and beverages that complement its flavor profile

Conclusion