How to make skirt steak like a michelin-starred chef: the perfect grilling technique revealed

Skirt steak, a lean and flavorful cut from the diaphragm of the cow, offers a tantalizing blend of tenderness and chewiness. Mastering the art of cooking skirt steak unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of selecting, seasoning, and cooking this delectable cut to perfection.

Choosing the Perfect Skirt Steak

1. Thickness: Opt for skirt steaks that are 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick for optimal tenderness.
2. Marbling: Look for steaks with moderate marbling, as this enhances flavor and juiciness.
3. Color: Choose steaks with a deep red color, indicating freshness.
4. Texture: The steak should have a slightly firm texture but not be overly tough.

Seasoning for Skirt Steak

1. Salt and Pepper: Season liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Acidic Marinades: Marinate the steak in an acidic solution, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or wine, for up to 2 hours to tenderize and enhance flavor.
3. Herbs and Spices: Elevate the steak’s flavor by adding herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, and spices like cumin or chili powder.

Grilling Skirt Steak

1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to high heat (450-500°F).
2. Grill the Steak: Place the seasoned steak on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
3. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Searing Skirt Steak

1. Heat a Pan: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat.
2. Sear the Steak: Add the seasoned steak to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Reduce Heat: Reduce the heat to medium and cook the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.

Pan-Searing Skirt Steak

1. Heat a Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the Steak: Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the Steak: Add the seasoned steak to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
4. Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to low and cook the steak for an additional 10-15 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.

Cooking Skirt Steak in the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Season the Steak: Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the Steak: Place the seasoned steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.

Serving Skirt Steak

1. Slicing: Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. Garnishing: Garnish the steak with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Accompaniments: Serve the skirt steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: What is the best way to tenderize skirt steak?
A: Marinating the steak in an acidic solution, such as lemon juice or vinegar, for up to 2 hours can help tenderize the meat.

Q: How do I know when the skirt steak is done cooking?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135°F, and for medium, it should be 145°F.

Q: What are some creative ways to serve skirt steak?
A: Skirt steak can be used in a variety of dishes, such as tacos, fajitas, sandwiches, and stir-fries.