How to Grill Skirt Steak on a Charcoal Grill

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Skirt Steak?
3. Choosing the Right Skirt Steak
4. Preparing Your Skirt Steak for Grilling
5. Prepping the Charcoal Grill
6. Grilling the Skirt Steak
7. Resting and Slicing
8. Serving Suggestions
9. Enhancing Your Skirt Steak Experience
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Imagine the sizzle of a luscious skirt steak hitting the hot grates of a charcoal grill, the fragrant smoke curling upwards as the meat sears beautifully. This cut of beef is an unsung hero in many culinary circles, often overshadowed by its more popular counterparts like ribeyes and tenderloins. However, when grilled correctly, skirt steak can reign supreme with its rich flavor and appealing bite.

Skirt steak, a long, flat cut, is known for its robust taste and is widely used across various cuisines, particularly in Mexican dishes like fajitas. Its popularity is surging as home cooks and food enthusiasts discover the joys of grilling it to perfection. Whether you’re planning a weekend barbecue with family or a casual weeknight dinner, learning how to grill skirt steak on a charcoal grill can elevate your meal into an exceptional dining experience.

In this post, we will guide you through the intricacies of grilling skirt steak, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. We will explore everything from selecting the right steak, preparing it for grilling, mastering the grilling technique, to slicing and serving. You’ll discover tips and tricks that can make all the difference in the world, including suggested marinades and seasonal pairings to complete your culinary journey. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to grill skirt steak that will impress even the most discerning palates.

What is Skirt Steak?

Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow, making it a naturally flavorful cut. It resides in the plate section, which is located beneath the ribs and is known for having a pronounced grain. This beef cut is available in two varieties: the outside skirt and the inside skirt. While the two are often confused due to their shared characteristics, they have distinct differences:

1. Outside Skirt: This cut is wider and thicker than the inside skirt, with a richer flavor, primarily because it’s marbled with fat. It typically comes with a membrane that needs to be removed before grilling.
2. Inside Skirt: Although thinner and narrower than the outside skirt, the inside skirt is still packed with flavor. It often comes without the membrane, making it more convenient for home cooks.

While both skirts are excellent for grilling, the outside skirt is sometimes favored for its taste and texture, especially in recipes for fajitas and carne asada.

Choosing the Right Skirt Steak

Quality Matters

The quality of the skirt steak you choose will greatly affect the end result. Look for steaks that are bright red, have a fine grain, and possess a good amount of marbling. This fat interspersed throughout the meat helps keep it juicy during grilling.

Sustainable Sourcing with Land and Sea Delivery

When selecting skirt steak, consider where your meat is sourced. At Land and Sea Delivery, we pride ourselves on offering premium quality beef that is ethically sourced from local farms. You can explore our Beef Selection to find top-quality skirt steak delivered right to your door, ensuring you’re grilling the best possible product.

Preparing Your Skirt Steak for Grilling

Trimming the Steak

Before you get to grilling, you may need to trim your skirt steak of any excess fat or silver skin. While some fat contributes to flavor, excessive fat can cause flare-ups on the grill. If it’s from the outside skirt, you should also remove the membrane before cooking, as it can become tough when grilled.

Marinating or Seasoning

Skirt steak responds incredibly well to marinades, which not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat. Here’s a simple marinade recipe that enhances the steak's natural taste:

Simple Marinade Recipe:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
2. Place the skirt steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is well coated.
3. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or, preferably, 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.

If you prefer a simpler approach, a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper right before grilling can suffice.

Prepping the Charcoal Grill

Getting the Temperature Right

To achieve that perfect sear, your charcoal grill should be ready when the temperature hits around 500°F to 700°F (260°C to 370°C). Here’s how to prepare:

1. Light the Charcoal: Use a chimney starter for ease, placing crumpled newspaper or lighter cubes at the bottom and adding coals on top. Light the newspaper and allow it to burn until the coals are ashed over (approximately 15-20 minutes).
2. Arrange Coals: Once the coals are ready, arrange them in a two-zone configuration; pile them high on one side for direct heat and leave the other side clear for indirect heat. This allows you to sear the steak quickly and then move it away from direct heat to finish cooking if necessary.
3. Preheat the Grill Grates: Before placing the skirt steak on the grill, oil the grates to prevent sticking. A paper towel soaked in oil, held with long-handled tongs, works well for this task.

Grilling the Skirt Steak

Searing to Perfection

Once your grill is hot and ready, follow these steps:

1. Place the Steak on the Grill: Take the marinated or seasoned skirt steak and place it directly over the hot coals.
2. Cook for 2-4 Minutes per Side: Depending on the thickness of your steak, grill it for about 2-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare to medium doneness. It’s essential to keep a close eye on the steak, as its relatively thin nature means it cooks quickly.
3. Check Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; for medium-rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C). Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after it’s removed from the grill.

Flipping and Managing Heat

Unlike some steak varieties, skirt steak benefits from being flipped often during cooking to create a nice crust and reduce the risk of overcooking. This helps in achieving that sought-after char without toughening the meat.

Resting and Slicing

Once grilled to your liking, it’s crucial to let the skirt steak rest. Here’s why and how to do it:

Reasons for Resting

Resting allows the juices within the steak to redistribute, yielding a juicier, more flavorful bite. A good resting time is about 5 to 10 minutes.

Slicing for Tenderness

When it’s time to slice the steak, it’s imperative to do so against the grain. The long muscle fibers in skirt steak can create a chewy eating experience if you slice with the grain. Here’s how to slice it correctly:

1. Cut the steak into manageable sections about 3-4 inches long.
2. Take each section and slice thinly against the grain into strips about 1/4-inch thick.

This technique ensures you have tender bites for easy chewing and maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Skirt steak is versatile and can be served in various ways, making it a fantastic dinner option that can cater to everyone’s preferences:

Standalone Serve

Present the sliced steak on a platter, perhaps garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, great for a rustic, elegant dinner.

Tacos and Fajitas

The classic fajitas are a no-fail option. Warm some tortillas and fill them with the sliced skirt steak, topped with sautéed onions and bell peppers. Finish with a dollop of guacamole or salsa for a flavor explosion!

Salads and Sandwiches

Skirt steak can also shine in salads or sandwiches. Think about a fresh arugula salad topped with skirt steak strips, tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty vinaigrette, or a delicious sandwich with grilled onions and spicy sauce.

Enhancing Your Skirt Steak Experience

Sauces and Pairings

Pair your grilled skirt steak with vibrant sauces such as chimichurri or BBQ sauce. A zesty chimichurri complements the smoky flavor of the grilled steak, while BBQ sauce adds a sweet touch.

Seasonal Sides

Consider serving your skirt steak with seasonal sides like grilled corn, a bright cucumber salad, or roasted seasonal vegetables. These additions not only enhance the meal but emphasize the quality and freshness of local ingredients.

At Land and Sea Delivery, we believe that high-quality ingredients create exceptional meals. This is why we are committed to providing you with the best seafood and meats available.

Conclusion

Grilling skirt steak on a charcoal grill may seem daunting, but with attention to detail in preparation, grilling techniques, and slicing, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your backyard. From the initial selection of the meat to the final slicing and serving, every step contributes to a delicious experience that invites enjoyment and camaraderie.

Whether you choose to serve it simply with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, adorn it with an array of flavorful marinades, or dress it up in tacos, the key lies in quality and technique. Let your love for cooking and the joy of sharing delicious meals inspire your journey with skirt steak.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to grill skirt steak like a pro, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Gather your friends and family, fire up the charcoal grill, and relish the flavorful journey from farm to table with skirt steak from Land and Sea Delivery.

FAQ

How long should I grill skirt steak?

Grill skirt steak for approximately 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium. Thickness may vary, so it’s best to check for an internal temperature of 130°F to 145°F.

Can I use gas instead of charcoal to grill skirt steak?

Yes, you can grill skirt steak on gas grills, but charcoal grilling often imparts a deeper flavor due to the smoke generated.

Do I have to marinate skirt steak?

While marinating skirt steak enhances its flavor and tenderness, you can also simply season it with salt and pepper before grilling for a simpler preparation.

What are good sides for skirt steak?

Grilled corn, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent side dishes that complement skirt steak nicely.

Should I slice skirt steak before or after resting?

Slice skirt steak after resting for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and leads to a more flavorful and tender steak.

Can I cook skirt steak past medium doneness?

You can, but it's advisable not to exceed medium as skirt steak can become tough and chewy if overcooked.