Smoked flank steak is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or hosting a dinner party, smoked flank steak is sure to impress your guests.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about smoked flank steak, including what it is, how to prepare it, and tips for making the perfect dish.
Table of Contents
What Is a Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a long, flat cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a lean cut of meat, and it’s also quite flavorful. Flank steak is often used in dishes such as fajitas, stir-fries, and sandwiches. It’s also an excellent choice for smoking due to its texture and flavor.
Why Smoked Flank Steak Is a Popular Choice
There are several reasons why smoked flank steak has become a popular choice among meat lovers. One of the primary reasons is the unique smoky flavor that it provides. It’s a flavor that cannot be replicated by any other cooking method. Additionally, smoking the meat helps to tenderize it, making it easier to chew and enjoy.
Characteristics of a Good Flank Steak for Smoking
When selecting a flank steak for smoking, it is important to choose a cut that is well-marbled and has a consistent thickness throughout. Look for a steak that is bright red in color and has a fresh smell.
Tips for Selecting the Best Flank Steak
When selecting a flank steak, look for one that is at least 1 inch thick and has a good amount of marbling. Avoid steaks that are too thin or have an uneven thickness.
Preparing Your Flank Steak for Smoking
Before smoking your flank steak, it is important to marinate it for several hours to enhance its flavor. In this recipe, we use a simple marinade by whisking together the following ingredients:
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbs Granulated Garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
After thoroughly combining all the ingredients, transfer the meat to the mixing bowl. Ensure the meat is fully coated with the marinade by using a spoon or your hands to massage it into the meat. Next, transfer the meat and the marinade to a large ziplock bag. Carefully remove any excess air from the bag and seal it securely. Place the bag of marinated meat in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and penetrate the meat.
Choosing the Right Wood for Smoking Flank Steak
For smoking flank steak, we recommend using cherry wood pellets. Cherry wood pellets provide a sweet and mild flavor that complements the beef without overpowering it.
How to Make Smoked Flank Steak
Set Up Your Smoker
Set up your Z Grills pellet smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using cherry or your preferred pellets. Preheat the smoker to 200-225 degrees F.
Smoke the Flank Steak
Remove the flank steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Once the smoker has reached the desired temperature, place the flank steak in the smoker and smoke for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 110-115 degrees F.
Sear the Flank Steak
When the steak has finished smoking, crank up the heat of your Z Grills smoker to 500 degrees F. Sear the flank steak for 1 minute, then turn it 1/4 and sear for another minute. Repeat this process until the steak has been seared on all sides for a total of 3 minutes.
Let It Rest
Remove the flank steak from the smoker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice the steak against the grain and serve.
Temperature and Cooking Time for Smoked Flank Steak
For best results, smoke your flank steak at a temperature of 200-225 degrees F for 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140 degrees F.
Serving Your Smoked Flank Steak
Smoked flank steak is a delectable dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The smoky flavor of the steak pairs perfectly with a wide range of sides, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Some great side dishes to accompany smoked flank steak include smoked corn on the cob, smoked mashed potatoes, and grilled shrimp salad.
Best Drinks to Pair with Smoked Flank Steak
To complement the smoky flavor of the flank steak, we recommend pairing it with a smoked cocktail, such as a smoked old fashioned or smoked margarita.
Tips for a Perfect Smoked Flank Steak
Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect smoked flank steak:
Resting your flank steak: Allow your flank steak to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Slicing your flank steak against the grain: Always slice your flank steak against the grain to help break down the fibers and make it easier to chew.
Letting your smoker do the work: Don’t try to rush the smoking process. Allow your smoker to do the work and cook the meat low and slow.
FAQs
Do I need to marinate my flank steak before smoking?
It’s not necessary to marinate your flank steak before smoking, but it can help to add flavor and tenderness to the meat.
Can I smoke a frozen flank steak?
No, you should thaw your flank steak before smoking it.
Can I use charcoal for smoking flank steak?
Yes, you can use charcoal for smoking flank steak, but wood pellets are generally considered better. Wood pellets are made from 100% hardwood and produce a richer and more complex flavor than charcoal. They also burn more cleanly, without producing excessive smoke or soot, which can affect the taste of the meat. Additionally, wood pellets are easier to use and clean. While charcoal can be used for smoking, wood pellets are the preferred choice for their superior flavor, cleaner burning, and ease of use.
How do I know when my flank steak is done?
A reliable way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For rare flank steak, the internal temperature should be 125°F; for medium-rare, it should be 135°F; for medium, it should be 145°F; for medium-well, it should be 150°F; and for well-done, it should be 160°F.
Can I smoke other cuts of steak besides flank steak?
Yes, you can smoke other cuts of steak such as ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon.
Final Word
Smoked flank steak is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold, smoky flavors. The smokiness of the meat, combined with the seasoning, creates a unique and delicious taste that you won’t find in other cooking methods. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and wood pellets when smoking your flank steak. Different combinations can create different flavors, so feel free to find your perfect recipe. Additionally, if you’re in the market for a new pellet grill, check out Z Grills for a wide range of high-quality grills.
Smoked Flank Steak
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb flank steak
For the Marinade
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbs granulated garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Place the flank steak in a large bag or bowl and marinate in the fridge for 4-6 hours. Before smoking the meat, drain excess marinade and pat it dry.
- Preheat your Z Grills pellet smoker to 200-225°F using cherry pellets.
- Smoke the flank steak until an internal temp of 115°F is reached. That should take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Remove the flank to a plate and turn up the smoker to 500°F .
- Sear for 1 minute, turn it 1/4, and sear for 1 another minute. After the 2 minutes, flip and sear for 1 more minute.
- Rest for 5-10 minutes and slice against the grain!
