Cody Casey
Slow-cooking flank steak is an easy way to prepare a delicious, tender, and juicy meal. This cooking method involves using a slow cooker or crock pot to cook the meat at a low temperature for an extended period, making it perfect for busy days when you want a tasty dinner with minimal effort. The result is a dish with rich flavours and melt-in-your-mouth meat that can be used in various dishes like sandwiches, tacos, and more. With simple recipes that can be customised to your taste, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak right at home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 15 minutes |
| Cook time | 3-8 hours |
| Marinade ingredients | Balsamic vinegar, oil, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, ranch mix, cayenne, thyme, bay leaf, carrot, onion |
| Crockpot size | 6-quart |
| Crockpot temperature | High or low |
| Crockpot cooking time | 3-4 hours on high, 4-8 hours on low |
| Meat temperature | Very tender |
| Meat texture | Shredded, not stringy |
| Serving suggestions | Sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, rice, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, green salad |
| Leftovers | Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for 2-3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Prepping your ingredients
To prep your ingredients for cooking flank steak in a crock pot, you'll first want to select the right size of the slow cooker for the amount of food you plan to cook.
Next, cut your flank steak into portions that will fit in your slow cooker. You can also sear the flank steak in a hot pan before placing it in the slow cooker to add even more flavor.
For the marinade, you can mix together a variety of ingredients such as balsamic vinegar, oil, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add in soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and various dry seasonings like ground coriander, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. If you have time, marinate the flank steak in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour before placing it in the slow cooker.
You can also make a spice rub by mixing together brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, and salt. You can also add in ranch mix and cayenne. Rub this mixture onto the steak to fully coat it before placing it in the slow cooker.
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Choosing the right cut of steak
Type of Steak
Different types of steak have distinct characteristics that influence their suitability for crock pot cooking. Popular options include ribeye, tenderloin, and round steak. Ribeye and tenderloin are known for their marbling, resulting in juicy and tender meat when slow-cooked. Round steak, while generally tougher due to its lean nature, can become tender and flavourful in a crock pot. Flank steak is also a versatile option, perfect for tacos, sandwiches, and bowls.
Fat Content
Selecting a cut of steak with the right amount of fat is essential for crock pot cooking. A decent amount of fat, as in ribeye or tenderloin, is ideal. The slow cooker breaks down the fat during the cooking process, keeping the steak tender and juicy. Fat adds flavour and helps prevent the meat from drying out.
Thickness
Choose a thick cut of steak for your crock pot. Thicker steaks can withstand the long cooking time without drying out, and they often provide a more generous portion for serving. A thicker steak also allows for a better sear before crock pot cooking, enhancing the overall flavour and texture.
Doneness Preference
Consider your preferred doneness when choosing a steak for the crock pot. For medium-rare, fast-cooking methods are usually preferable to achieve the right doneness without overcooking. However, for medium or medium-well, slow cooking in a crock pot is ideal, as it allows for a more gradual rise in internal temperature.
Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of different cuts of steak can also influence your choice. Certain cuts, like ribeye, may be more expensive and harder to find, while others, such as round steak, can be more affordable and accessible. Consider your budget and the options available at your local butcher or grocery store.
Experimentation
Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment with different cuts of steak in your crock pot. While certain cuts may be traditionally favoured for specific cooking methods, you can often achieve excellent results by trying something new. For example, hanger steak and flat-iron steak can be delicious alternatives to flank steak in a crock pot.
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Marinating your steak
Marinating your flank steak is a crucial step in the cooking process, as it helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavour. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for marinating your steak before cooking it in the crock pot:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix your chosen wet and dry ingredients. A typical marinade for flank steak might include balsamic vinegar, oil, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with other ingredients such as soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, or spices like smoked paprika and red pepper flakes.
- Coat the Steak: Place the flank steak in a container or plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Massage the marinade into the meat with your hands or turn the steak over once or twice to ensure an even coating.
- Marinating Time: For the best results, let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight. If you're short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour of marinating. The longer the steak sits in the marinade, the more tender and flavourful it will become.
- Flip the Steak: During the marinating process, flip the steak occasionally to ensure that the marinade penetrates the meat evenly. This helps prevent the steak from absorbing too much liquid on one side, keeping the flavours balanced.
- Prepare the Crock Pot: While the steak is marinating, prepare your crock pot by greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil. This step ensures that your steak doesn't stick to the surface of the crock pot and also adds a bit of extra moisture to the cooking process.
- Add Spices (Optional): If you're using a dry spice rub in addition to your marinade, now is the time to apply it. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Then, rub the spice mixture onto the steak, coating all sides evenly.
- Cook the Steak: Place the marinated steak into the prepared crock pot. If desired, add any remaining marinade to the crock pot, as this can form the base of a delicious sauce. Cover and cook according to your chosen recipe's instructions, typically around 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low for a tender result.
- Rest and Slice: Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, carefully transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak. Finally, slice the steak against the grain to shorten the meat fibres, making it easier to chew and more enjoyable to eat.
Remember, the key to a successful marinade is giving it enough time to work its magic. The longer you can let your flank steak marinate, the more tender and flavourful it will be. So, plan ahead if you can, but even a quick 30-minute marinade will still make a delicious difference!
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Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for flank steak in a crock pot can vary depending on the desired level of tenderness and the specific appliance being used. Here are some general guidelines and tips for achieving the perfect cooking time and temperature:
For a typical crock pot or slow cooker, the cooking time for flank steak is usually around 3-4 hours on a high setting or 4-8 hours on a low setting. The longer cooking time on the low setting allows the steak to become more tender and flavorful. It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the flank steak, with thicker cuts benefiting from a slower cook.
When cooking on a high setting, it is recommended to cook the flank steak for 3-4 hours or until it becomes very tender. This results in a tender steak that can be shredded or pulled apart with forks. However, it is important to avoid overcooking, as the steak may start to fall apart.
On the other hand, cooking on a low setting for 6-8 hours is ideal for achieving a very tender steak. This slower cook allows the steak to become incredibly tender and juicy. It is recommended to flip the steak once or twice during the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
It is worth mentioning that the cooking time may need to be adjusted when cooking multiple steaks in the same crock pot. While the cooking time may remain the same, it is suggested to add 30-minute increments if the steak is not as tender as desired.
Additionally, it is important to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing it against the grain. This helps retain the juices and ensures a more tender steak.
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Serving suggestions
Slow cooker flank steak is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
Sandwiches
Slow cooker flank steak can be served in sandwiches. You can pile the shredded steak onto a bun, roll, or toasted bread and top it with cheese. For an extra flavour boost, you can also add some sauce from the slow cooker.
Tacos and Fajitas
The tender steak can be used as a taco filling. It can also be served in soft or hard shell fajitas, with lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, and other favourite toppings.
Rice Bowls
The steak pairs well with rice. You can serve it over white or brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. You can also add the steak to a savoury rice bowl with other ingredients.
Mashed Potatoes
For a comforting meal, serve the flank steak over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle some of the juices from the crockpot over the steak and potatoes for extra flavour.
Nachos and Quesadillas
For a more casual dish, use the slow cooker flank steak as a topping for nachos or as a filling for quesadillas. Add your favourite toppings and sauces to customise your dish.
Salads and Sides
The steak can be served with a variety of sides, such as steamed or roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It can also be paired with mac and cheese, egg noodles, or cauliflower rice for a more substantial meal.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes 3-4 hours on a high setting or 6-8 hours on a low setting.
First, season the steak with salt and pepper and place it in the crock pot. Then, add vegetables such as carrots and onions, and season with thyme and a bay leaf. Pour in water and cook until tender.
Marinating is the key to tenderizing flank steak. You can also sear the flank steak in a hot pan before placing it in the crock pot.
Some good side dishes include mashed potatoes, rice, mac and cheese, roasted vegetables, and salad.
