California Flank Steak
California Flank Steak offers a sweet and savory flavor profile with a tender texture, perfect for grilling or broiling. The marinade of brown sugar and soy sauce infuses the meat with rich umami and caramel notes, making it ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners that impress.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub liberal amounts of brown sugar into both sides of the flank steak.
- Lay the steak into an oblong container and cover with soy sauce.
- Lift the steak so the soy sauce gets underneath.
- Cover and marinate for 1 hour.
- Turn the steak over, re-cover, and marinate for an additional 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the marinade. If you prefer a sweeter profile, substitute some of the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Ensure the flank steak is at room temperature before marinating for better absorption. For a different take, try this technique with shrimp in the Low-Fat Oven Fried Catfish style.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the flank steak against the grain for optimal tenderness. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Macaroni And Tomato Soup for a comforting touch. Consider serving with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious marinade.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the steak and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered, to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Flank Steak contains roughly 68 calories, with 9g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1719mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
While flank steak is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may vary in tenderness and cooking duration.
How long can I marinate the flank steak?
For best results, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but you can extend it up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just be cautious, as prolonged marination can lead to a mushy texture due to the soy sauce's acidity.
Can I grill the flank steak after marinating?
Absolutely! Grilling the marinated flank steak enhances its flavor with a smoky char. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).