How to Cook a Flat Iron Steak Medium Rare

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Flat Iron Steak
3. Preparing Your Flat Iron Steak
4. Cooking Flat Iron Steak Medium Rare
5. Serving Suggestions
6. Conclusion

Introduction

Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked flat iron steak, its tender, juicy texture melting in your mouth, accompanied by a burst of rich flavors. For many, this is the pinnacle of a great meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress your friends and family, mastering the art of cooking a flat iron steak medium rare is a skill worth acquiring.

Flat iron steak, a cut from the shoulder of the cow, is known for its exceptional tenderness and robust flavor. Its unique marbling and relatively low price point make it a favorite among steak lovers. However, achieving the perfect medium-rare doneness can be a challenge if you’re not familiar with the right techniques.

In this blog post, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking a flat iron steak medium rare. From understanding the cut and its culinary applications to step-by-step cooking methods, we will equip you with the knowledge to prepare an exquisite steak that will impress anyone at your dining table.

By the end of this post, you'll know how to select the best flat iron steak, prepare it for cooking, and execute the cooking process flawlessly. We'll also cover ideal pairings and serving suggestions to elevate your meal even further. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of flat iron steaks!

Understanding Flat Iron Steak

What Is Flat Iron Steak?

Flat iron steak is derived from the top blade of the chuck primal cut. It is prized for its rich, beefy flavor and tenderness, making it an ideal choice for grilling or pan-searing. The cut is named for its resemblance to an old-fashioned flat iron used in laundry.

Flat iron steaks typically weigh between 1 to 1.5 pounds and are about an inch thick. The unique marbling found in this cut contributes to its flavor and juiciness, ensuring that when cooked properly, it remains tender and succulent.

The Appeal of Cooking Medium Rare

Cooking steak to medium rare—an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F—allows the meat to retain its natural juices while achieving a delicious crust on the outside. This level of doneness is often considered the sweet spot for steak enthusiasts, as it showcases the cut's best qualities.

Why Choose Flat Iron Steak?

1. Flavorful and Tender: Flat iron steak is known for its deep flavor and tenderness, making it a crowd-pleaser.
2. Versatile Cooking Options: This cut can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, pan-searing, and sous vide.
3. Affordability: Compared to more premium cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, flat iron steak offers great value without sacrificing quality.

Preparing Your Flat Iron Steak

Selecting the Right Steak

When shopping for flat iron steak, look for the following qualities:

• Color: Opt for a bright red color, indicating freshness.
• Marbling: Choose a steak with good marbling for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
• Thickness: Aim for a steak that is about 1 inch thick for even cooking.

Essential Tools and Ingredients

To prepare your flat iron steak, you'll need the following:

• Tools:
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cast iron skillet or grill
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
• Ingredients:
  • Flat iron steak (approximately 1 pound)
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil or another high-heat oil
  • Optional: Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), garlic

Marinating the Steak

While flat iron steak is flavorful on its own, marinating can enhance its tenderness and infuse it with additional flavors. Here’s a simple marinade recipe:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil
   • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
   • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
   • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
   • Fresh herbs (optional)
2. Instructions:
   • In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs.
   • Rub the marinade all over the steak, ensuring it's evenly coated.
   • Let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.

Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature

Before cooking, allow your steak to come to room temperature. This helps ensure that it cooks evenly. Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before you plan to cook it.

Cooking Flat Iron Steak Medium Rare

Method 1: Pan-Searing

Pan-searing is one of the best techniques for achieving a perfectly cooked flat iron steak with a beautiful crust.

1. Preheat Your Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to heat for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Oil: Once heated, add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet, swirling it to coat the bottom.
3. Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the skillet, ensuring it lays flat. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook one steak at a time.
4. Cooking Time: For a medium-rare steak, cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing a nice crust to form.
5. Flip and Finish: Use tongs to flip the steak and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
6. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the steak from the heat when the thermometer reads 130°F to 135°F.
7. Rest the Steak: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Method 2: Grilling

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the steak while providing that iconic char.

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high, ensuring the grates are clean and well-oiled.
2. Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the hottest part of the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes without moving it.
3. Rotate the Steak: After 3-4 minutes, rotate the steak 45 degrees to create a diamond pattern. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Flip and Repeat: Flip the steak and repeat the process on the other side.
5. Check Temperature: As with pan-searing, use a meat thermometer to monitor the doneness.
6. Rest and Serve: Allow the steak to rest after cooking before slicing.

Method 3: Sous Vide

Sous vide cooking is perfect for precision and control, ensuring your steak reaches the desired doneness without any guesswork.

1. Preheat Sous Vide: Set your sous vide machine to 130°F for medium-rare.
2. Seal the Steak: Season the steak with salt and pepper, then place it in a vacuum-sealable bag. Seal the bag tightly.
3. Cook: Submerge the bag in the sous vide water bath and cook for 1 to 2 hours.
4. Sear for Finish: After the sous vide bath, remove the steak from the bag, pat it dry, and quickly sear it in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Rest and Serve: Let it rest briefly before slicing against the grain.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes

To complement the rich flavors of flat iron steak, consider serving it with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they pair beautifully with steak.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus add color and nutrition.
• Chimichurri Sauce: This fresh and zesty sauce enhances the beef's flavor.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer favorite that adds sweetness to the meal.

Wine Pairing

For a memorable dining experience, pair your flat iron steak with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These wines complement the richness of the beef and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cooking a flat iron steak medium rare is not only about mastering techniques; it’s about appreciating the journey from farm to table. With its tenderness, flavor, and versatility, flat iron steak deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.

By following the steps outlined in this post, you can confidently prepare a steak that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and make this dish your own.

For those who want to explore high-quality meats, consider checking out Land and Sea Delivery, where you can find fresh, local, and premium flat iron steaks delivered directly to your door.

FAQs About Cooking Flat Iron Steak

1. What is the best way to know when my flat iron steak is done? Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F.

2. Can I marinate flat iron steak overnight? Yes, marinating overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours to avoid breakdown of the meat texture.

3. Should I cover my steak while it rests? No, it’s best to leave the steak uncovered while it rests. Covering it may trap moisture and affect the crust you worked hard to achieve.

4. What can I do with leftover flat iron steak? Leftover steak can be sliced thinly and used in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries. It adds great flavor and protein to a variety of dishes.

5. How do I slice my flat iron steak? Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness. This shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew.

For more culinary inspiration and to shop for premium meats, visit the Land and Sea Delivery Shop and consider their Home Delivery Service. Enjoy your cooking journey!