Slam Dunk Flank Steak(Sunset'S "Easy Basics" Cookbook)
Slam Dunk Flank Steak features tender, thinly sliced beef served with a tangy caper mustard sauce, perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal for meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the oil in a wide frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the meat in the pan and cook, uncovered, until browned on both sides but still pink in the center when sliced.
- Transfer the meat to a carving board and cover loosely to keep warm.
- Over low heat, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in the pan drippings.
- Mix in the vermouth, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, and drained capers; stir briskly to blend.
- Cut the meat across the grain into thin slanting slices.
- Spoon the sauce over the sliced meat.
- Garnish with watercress if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the flank steak in the mixture of vermouth, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dry vermouth, substitute with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar for a different twist. Additionally, ensure to slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sliced flank steak drizzled with the sauce over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed asparagus. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice or the 6 Layer Dinner from the Idaho Cattlemen's Association.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover flank steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its tenderness. You can also microwave it briefly, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slam Dunk Flank Steak(Sunset'S "Easy Basics" Cookbook) contains roughly 169 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 561mg per serving (24% 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
How can I tell when the flank steak is cooked to the right doneness?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. If you prefer it more well-done, continue cooking until it reaches your desired temperature. Remember, flank steak is best when it's slightly pink in the center.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like skirt steak or sirloin, but cooking times may vary. Skirt steak is similar in texture and flavor but usually cooks faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
What can I do with leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week. Use it as a drizzle over grilled vegetables or as a dressing for salads. You can also mix it into pasta for a flavorful sauce or use it as a marinade for other meats.
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).