Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that bursts with flavor and is sure to impress? Look no further than this Soy Marinated Flank Steak with Cucumber Relish! This Asian-inspired recipe combines the savory richness of marinated flank steak with the refreshing crunch of cucumber relish, creating a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a meal that will have your family and friends raving. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic to create the marinade. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over, ensuring the meat is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to penetrate the meat. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours.
- While the steak marinates, prepare the cucumber relish. In a separate bowl, combine thinly sliced cucumber, rice vinegar, and sugar. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature to allow flavors to meld. The cucumber will become slightly pickled and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich steak.
- Preheat a grill or heavy skillet to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade, letting excess drip off. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.
- Grill or pan-sear the flank steak for 6-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.
- Once cooked, transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, which helps maximize tenderness. Arrange on a serving platter and top with the prepared cucumber relish.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with optional chopped green onions or sesame seeds for additional flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Maximize Flavor with Marination: For the best flavor, marinate your flank steak for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, let it sit for up to 2 hours. This allows the soy sauce and sesame oil to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Perfectly Sear Your Steak: To achieve a beautiful sear, make sure your grill or skillet is preheated to medium-high heat. Patting the steak dry before cooking will also help achieve that coveted crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare or 140-145°F for medium doneness.
- Resting is Key: After cooking, let your steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for retaining juices and ensuring a tender bite.
- Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the steak, always slice against the grain. This technique will help maximize tenderness and make each bite more enjoyable.
- Add a Pop of Color: For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, garnish your dish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
