Soy Marinated Flank Steak

The Soy Marinated Flank Steak is a culinary gem that transforms a simple piece of meat into a delightful feast. Infused with a rich marinade, this dish bursts with flavor and is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Its unique blend of ingredients creates a tender steak that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines sweet and savory elements, making each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or as part of a salad for diverse meal options.
• Quick Cook Time: This steak cooks quickly on the grill, allowing you to enjoy your meal sooner.
• Impressive Presentation: Slicing the steak against the grain yields beautiful pieces that look great on any plate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Resealable bag
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for reserved marinade)
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat for searing the steak, locking in flavors and juices.
• Resealable Bag: Allows for even marination by ensuring all surfaces of the steak are coated.
• Meat Thermometer: Helps achieve perfect doneness, preventing overcooking or undercooking.

Ingredients

The marinade in this Grilled Asian-style Soy Marinated Flank Steak takes an uninteresting piece of steak and turns it into a mouthwatering dish!

Marinade Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) reduced sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil, plus more for greasing
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp (10 g) minced ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp (6 g) thinly sliced green onion, plus more for garnish
• 3/4 tsp rice vinegar

Steak Ingredient

• 2 lb (907 g) flank steak

How to Make Soy Marinated Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-size bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, red chili pepper flakes, and green onions. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Reserve Marinade

Remove 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the marinade and combine it with the rice vinegar in a small bowl. Cover this mixture and refrigerate it for later use.

Step 3: Marinate the Steak

Place the remaining marinade along with the flank steak into a resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour while laying the steak flat. For best results, flip the bag after 30 minutes. You can marinate it for up to 12 hours if desired.

Step 4: Prepare to Grill

After marinating, remove the steak from the bag and drain any excess liquid. Place it onto a pan and discard the used marinade bag. Preheat your grill to high heat. Grease your grill with a small amount of oil on a folded paper towel.

Step 5: Grill the Steak

Once your grill is preheated (about 15 minutes), add the steak. Cover it and cook until well browned on one side for about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip it over and continue cooking until reaching your desired doneness—about 3 to 4 minutes more. For medium rare, aim for an internal temperature between 120°F to 125°F (49°C to 52°C). For medium doneness, seek an internal temperature between 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C).

Step 6: Rest Before Slicing

Transfer the grilled steak onto a cutting board and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps retain juices.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice against the grain into approximately 1/4-inch (6-mm) thick pieces. Drizzle with reserved marinade before serving hot. Enjoy!

How to Serve Soy Marinated Flank Steak

Soy Marinated Flank Steak is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its rich flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As Tacos

• Flour or corn tortillas can be filled with sliced steak, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious twist.

Over Rice

• Serve the flank steak over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice, drizzling the reserved marinade on top for extra flavor.

In a Salad

• Slice the steak thinly and toss it into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sesame dressing for a light yet satisfying meal.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the steak with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a colorful and nutritious plate that complements the savory meat.

On Skewers

• Cut the flank steak into bite-sized pieces, thread them onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and onions, then grill for an easy-to-eat option.

As Sandwiches

• Place slices of marinated flank steak on crusty bread with spicy mayo or aioli and arugula for a hearty sandwich perfect for lunch.

How to Perfect Soy Marinated Flank Steak

To achieve the best results with your Soy Marinated Flank Steak, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate the steak overnight if possible.

• Use High Heat: A hot grill sears the outside quickly while keeping the inside juicy. Preheat your grill well before cooking.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the steak rest after grilling helps juices redistribute, resulting in tender slices.

• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain shortens muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew.

• Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach your desired doneness without overcooking.

• Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions add brightness and flavor when sprinkled on top just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Soy Marinated Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with Soy Marinated Flank Steak can enhance your meal’s overall taste and presentation. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic complement the rich flavors of the steak beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds a crunchy texture and bright color that balances the meal.

3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar provides a nice contrast to the savory meat.

4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf mixed with nuts and herbs offers a wholesome grain option that pairs well with flank steak.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the salty marinade of the steak.

6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles create an Asian-inspired side that complements the flavors in your soy-marinated dish.

7. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

8. Fried Rice: Stir-fried rice mixed with vegetables makes for a hearty side that perfectly complements Asian-style flank steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soy Marinated Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Failing to marinate the steak for at least an hour can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, but let it sit longer if possible.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can make your dish overly salty. Opt for reduced sodium soy sauce or tamari for a balanced taste.
• Cooking on a low grill temperature: Cooking the steak on a low heat will lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to high for the best results.
• Neglecting to rest the steak: Cutting into the steak right after cooking can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
• Slicing against the grain: Slicing with the grain results in tougher pieces of meat. Always slice against the grain for tender bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Soy Marinated Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Soy Marinated Flank Steak

• Wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• This way, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soy Marinated Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm. Avoid overheating as it can dry out.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat gently until warmed through without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Soy Marinated Flank Steak:

How long should I marinate Soy Marinated Flank Steak?

For optimal flavor, marinate your flank steak for at least 1 hour, but you can go up to 12 hours if you want deeper flavor penetration.

Can I use other cuts of meat for this marinade?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, this marinade also works well with skirt steak or even chicken breasts if you’re looking for variety.

What should I serve with Soy Marinated Flank Steak?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can customize your sides based on your preference!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. It provides the same great flavor without gluten.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Just remember to follow safe food handling practices.

Final Thoughts

Soy Marinated Flank Steak is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any dinner table. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Enjoy exploring various side dishes that complement this flavorful steak!