Grilled skirt steak is a classic dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick meal or planning an impressive dinner, this succulent cut of beef is a great option. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy tender and juicy grilled skirt steak any night of the week.
What is Grilled Skirt Steak?
Grilled skirt steak is a cut of beef that comes from the plate section of the cow. It is thin and wide, making it ideal for grilling or pan-frying. The flavor of grilled skirt steak is robust and pairs well with a variety of seasonings and marinades. The meat has a buttery texture and when cooked correctly, it’s juicy and tender.
Brief history of Skirt Steak as a popular cut of beef
Skirt steak has been a popular cut of beef for centuries, though its culinary history is largely unknown. It may have originated in Mexico and Central America before being brought to the United States during the 19th century. Later, it became a staple in Southern cuisine. Skirt steak was originally used more often as an inexpensive stewing meat but eventually gained popularity due to its flavor and ability to be quickly cooked.
Preparing the Grilled Skirt Steak
Selecting the right cut of Skirt Steak
When selecting a skirt steak, look for one that is at least 1/2 inch thick and has some marbling throughout the meat. It should be deep red in color with a tight grain and be free of excess fat or gristle. When purchasing skirt steak, it may be labeled as “fajita steak” or “outside skirt” since these are the most common names for this cut of beef.
Seasoning the Skirt Steak
Once you have chosen your skirt steak, it’s time to season it. Start by patting the steak dry and then brush both sides with oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and create a nice crust on the outside. You can use any combination of spices or herbs you like, but some popular choices include garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
Letting the Skirt Steak rest
Once the steak is seasoned, it’s important to let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This will allow the seasoning to be absorbed into the steak and give it time to relax. It also gives you a chance to preheat your grill or skillet to the proper temperature. If you don’t let your steak rest, it could end up dry and tough instead of juicy and tender.
Grilling and Serving the Skirt Steak
Preparing the grill
When it comes to grilling skirt steak, you’ll want to make sure your grill is preheated to the proper temperature before cooking. For best results, set your grill to medium-high heat (about 450 degrees F). If you are using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals turn white before adding the steak.
Grilling the Skirt Steak to perfection
Once your grill is preheated and ready to go, it’s time to cook the skirt steak. Place the steak on the hot grill and let it cook for 5-7 minutes per side. You’ll want to make sure you don’t move or flip the steak too often since this can cause it to dry out. When the steak is almost done, you can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The steak should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F for medium-rare or 160 degrees F for medium.
Letting the Skirt Steak rest again
Letting the skirt steak rest again is an important step in ensuring tender and juicy results. After cooking the steak on the grill, it is best to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. During this time, the temperature of the steak will even out, which helps keep it juicy and tender. Additionally, letting the steak rest will allow all of the flavorful juices to be reabsorbed into the meat.
Slicing and serving the Skirt Steak
Once your skirt steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to slice and serve it. The best way to do this is to let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure that each slice of steak is tender and full of flavor. Serve the sliced skirt steak with your favorite sides or on top of a salad for a delicious and easy meal.
Recommended side dishes to go with the Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is a delicious and flavorful cut of beef that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to your grilled skirt steak, here are some recommended side dishes to try:
Roasted Potatoes – Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that will pair nicely with skirt steak. Cut potatoes into chunks, toss in oil and your favorite spices, and roast them in the oven for about 25 minutes.
Grilled Vegetables – Grilled vegetables add a delicious smoky flavor to any meal. Cut your favorite veggies into chunks, toss with oil and seasonings, and grill them alongside your steak for a beautiful plate of food.
Baked Beans – Baked beans are another great side dish to pair with skirt steak. You can make your own from scratch or pick up a can of your favorite variety from the store. Serve them warm for a comforting meal.
Tips and Tricks
Tips for achieving the perfect grilled Skirt Steak
To achieve the perfect grilled skirt steak, it is important to start with good quality meat and season it properly. Before cooking, let the steak rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure the seasoning has time to be absorbed into the meat. When preheating your grill or skillet, make sure it’s hot enough so that when you add the steak, it will immediately start to sizzle and sear. Finally, let the steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking to ensure even temperatures throughout the steak and tender, juicy results.
Alternative cooking methods for Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is a popular cut of beef that can be grilled, but there are also other cooking methods that will give you delicious results. Here are some alternative ways to cook skirt steak:
Stovetop Pan Frying – Pan-frying skirt steak on the stovetop is a great way to get flavorful and juicy results. Start by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil or butter. Once the pan is hot, add the steak and let it cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
Broiling – Broiling skirt steak in the oven is another great option for achieving juicy results. Preheat your oven to broil and place the steak on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until desired doneness is reached.
Sous Vide – For an easier and more precise cooking method, try sous vide. With this method, you can cook the steak to your exact desired temperature without having to worry about overcooking it.
Serving suggestions for grilled Skirt Steak
Grilled skirt steak is a delicious and flavorful cut of beef that can be served as an entrée or used in a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions for serving skirt steak:
Tacos – Slice the skirt steak into thin strips and serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings. Soft corn tortillas work best for this dish.
Salad – Slice the steak into thin strips and top your favorite salad with it. This is a great way to make a salad more filling and satisfying.
Sandwich – Layer the skirt steak on a sandwich with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and cheese for a delicious lunch or dinner.
Burrito Bowls – Layer the skirt steak over a bed of rice and beans for a flavorful burrito bowl that can be topped with your favorite toppings.
Conclusion
Grilled skirt steak is a delicious cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to pan-frying to sous vide. This lean cut of beef is full of flavor and is incredibly versatile. It makes an excellent entrée or can be used in salads, tacos, sandwiches, and burrito bowls. Grilling skirt steak is a great way to enjoy it, as it adds a delicious smoky flavor and is quick and easy. With the right seasonings, you can achieve perfectly cooked skirt steak every time.
