Flank steak is a popular cut of beef known for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly. However, it can be a bit tricky to cook, especially for those who are new to cooking or have limited time to spend in the kitchen. One solution to this problem is cooking flank steak in a slow cooker. In this article, we will explore the possibility of cooking flank steak in a slow cooker, its benefits, and provide some tips and recipes to get you started.
Can You Cook Flank Steak in a Slow Cooker?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. Cooking flank steak in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare this cut of beef, especially for those who are short on time or prefer a hands-off cooking method. The slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment make it an ideal cooking vessel for flank steak, allowing it to cook slowly and evenly throughout the day.
Benefits of Cooking Flank Steak in a Slow Cooker
There are several benefits to cooking flank steak in a slow cooker. Some of the most significant advantages include:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are designed to be hands-off, allowing you to cook your flank steak while you’re busy with other tasks.
- Tenderization: The low heat and moisture in the slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the flank steak, making it tender and easy to slice.
- Flavor enhancement: The slow cooker’s closed environment allows the flavors of the dish to meld together and penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful final product.
- Easy to cook in bulk: Slow cookers are perfect for cooking large quantities of food, making them ideal for families or for meal prep.
How to Cook Flank Steak in a Slow Cooker
Cooking flank steak in a slow cooker is relatively straightforward. Here are the basic steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak
Before cooking the flank steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This includes:
- Trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the steak
- Seasoning the steak with your desired spices and herbs
- Slicing the steak against the grain, if desired
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Liquid to the Slow Cooker
Next, add some aromatics and liquid to the slow cooker. This can include:
- Onions, garlic, and other aromatics
- Stock or broth
- Wine or other acidic ingredients
- Tomato sauce or other flavorful liquids
Step 3: Add the Flank Steak to the Slow Cooker
Once the slow cooker is prepared, add the flank steak to the pot. Make sure the steak is covered with the liquid and aromatics.
Step 4: Cook the Flank Steak
Cook the flank steak on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the steak, as well as your desired level of doneness.
Slow Cooker Flank Steak Recipes
Here are a few delicious slow cooker flank steak recipes to try:
Recipe 1: Slow Cooker Flank Steak Fajitas
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds flank steak
- 1/2 cup sliced onions
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the flank steak to the slow cooker and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve with tortillas, toppings, and your favorite fajita fixings.
Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds flank steak
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the flank steak to the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Remove the steak from the slow cooker and slice it against the grain.
- Stir the flour into the juices in the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve the steak with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Tips for Cooking Flank Steak in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking flank steak in a slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Don’t overcook the steak: Flank steak can become tough and dry if it’s overcooked. Cook the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness, then remove it from the slow cooker.
- Let the steak rest: Before slicing the steak, let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
- Experiment with different seasonings and marinades: Flank steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be seasoned and marinated in a variety of ways. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite.
Conclusion
Cooking flank steak in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare this delicious cut of beef. With its tender texture and rich flavor, slow-cooked flank steak is perfect for a variety of dishes, from fajitas to steak sandwiches. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you can create delicious and flavorful slow-cooked flank steak dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What are the benefits of cooking flank steak in a slow cooker?
Cooking flank steak in a slow cooker is a game-changer for busy home cooks because it offers several benefits. For one, it allows for hands-off cooking, which means you can prepare the steak in the morning and come home to a delicious, tender meal. Additionally, slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues in the steak, making it tender and flavorful.
Another benefit of slow cooking flank steak is that it’s a low-maintenance way to cook a meal. Simply season the steak, add your favorite ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the appliance do the work. This method is also great for cooking flank steak to the perfect level of doneness, as it’s easy to check the internal temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I prepare the flank steak for slow cooking?
To prepare the flank steak for slow cooking, start by seasoning the steak with your favorite spices and marinades. You can use a store-bought marinade or create your own using ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and herbs. Next, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, if desired. This will help the steak cook more evenly and make it easier to shred or slice after cooking.
Once the steak is seasoned and sliced, add it to the slow cooker with your favorite ingredients, such as onions, bell peppers, and potatoes. You can also add a liquid, like beef broth or wine, to the slow cooker to help keep the steak moist and add flavor. Finally, set the slow cooker to the desired temperature and cooking time, and let the appliance do the work.
What is the best way to cook flank steak in a slow cooker?
The best way to cook flank steak in a slow cooker is to cook it on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This will help break down the connective tissues in the steak and make it tender and flavorful. You can also cook the steak on low for a shorter amount of time, such as 6-8 hours, if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and adjust the cooking time as needed. Additionally, you can use the slow cooker’s temperature settings to cook the steak to your desired level of doneness.
Can I cook frozen flank steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen flank steak in a slow cooker. In fact, slow cooking is a great way to cook frozen steak because it allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the steak from becoming tough or dry. To cook frozen flank steak in a slow cooker, simply add the steak to the slow cooker with your favorite ingredients and cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours.
Keep in mind that cooking frozen steak may require a slightly longer cooking time than cooking fresh steak. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the steak reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I shred or slice the flank steak after cooking?
After cooking the flank steak in a slow cooker, you can shred or slice it to serve. To shred the steak, use two forks to pull the meat apart into tender, juicy strands. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the steak quickly and easily.
To slice the steak, use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain into thin strips. You can also use a meat slicer to slice the steak into uniform strips. Either way, be sure to slice the steak against the grain to ensure it’s tender and easy to chew.
What are some popular recipes for slow-cooked flank steak?
There are many popular recipes for slow-cooked flank steak, including fajitas, steak tacos, and steak sandwiches. You can also use slow-cooked flank steak in salads, wraps, and bowls. Some popular flavor combinations include Korean BBQ, Italian-style with marinara sauce, and Mexican-style with salsa and avocado.
To make slow-cooked flank steak fajitas, for example, simply add sliced onions and bell peppers to the slow cooker with the steak and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Serve the steak and vegetables with warm flour or corn tortillas, sour cream, and salsa. You can also add other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes and shredded cheese, to make the dish more flavorful and filling.
Can I cook other types of steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook other types of steak in a slow cooker, although the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the type and thickness of the steak. For example, you can cook ribeye or sirloin steak in a slow cooker, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the steak reaches the desired level of doneness.
In general, it’s best to cook thinner steaks, such as flank steak or skirt steak, in a slow cooker, as they cook more evenly and quickly. Thicker steaks, such as ribeye or strip loin, may require a shorter cooking time or a higher temperature to cook to the desired level of doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak and adjust the cooking time as needed.