Soy-Marinated Flank Steaks
Juicy flank steaks marinated in a savory soy-based sauce, offering rich umami flavors with hints of garlic and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish delivers tender, flavorful slices that are ideal served on a warmed platter with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Poke the steak all over with the tines of a fork; cut in half against the grain to make 2 steaks.
- In a non-reactive bowl or large resealable plastic bag, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, vegetable oil, crushed garlic, sugar, and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Add the steaks to the marinade and turn to coat.
- Cover the bag or bowl and marinate at room temperature for about 1 hour or refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
- Remove the steaks from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Position the oven rack in the top position and preheat the broiler.
- Broil the steaks for 5 to 8 minutes on each side for rare to medium rare.
- Set aside on a cutting board for 5 minutes.
- Cut the steak against the grain, on an angle, into very thin slices.
- Arrange the slices on a warmed platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For maximum tenderness, allow the flank steak to marinate for the full 6 hours in the refrigerator. If you don't have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute. Make sure to let the steak rest after broiling, as this helps retain juices. Use a sharp knife to cut against the grain for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sliced flank steak on a bed of steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be used in sandwiches. For an American twist, consider serving it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a hearty coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover marinated steak should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soy-Marinated Flank Steaks contains roughly 132 calories, with 7g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2820mg per serving (123% 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 a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while flank steak is ideal for this marinade, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly for thinner or thicker cuts.
What should I do if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a mixture of soy sauce with a dash of vinegar and a touch of sugar can serve as a reasonable substitute. This will maintain the umami flavor profile in the marinade.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your soy-marinated flank steaks, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for a flavorful kick.
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).