Craving grilled skirt steak? here’s how to nail it on your weber!
What To Know
- The key to grilling a perfect skirt steak lies in selecting a high-quality cut.
- Place the skirt steak on the indirect heat side of the grill and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F.
- Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Skirt steak, with its bold flavor and tender texture, is a grilling enthusiast’s delight. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a backyard barbecue novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create mouthwatering skirt steaks every time you fire up your Weber grill.
Choosing the Right Skirt Steak
The key to grilling a perfect skirt steak lies in selecting a high-quality cut. Look for a steak that is about 1 inch thick, with a uniform thickness throughout. The surface should be free of any silver skin or excess fat.
Preparation and Marinating
Before grilling, prepare the skirt steak by removing any silver skin. This tough membrane can prevent the steak from cooking evenly. Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper, or experiment with your favorite spices. If desired, marinate the steak in a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes.
Grilling Techniques
Direct Grilling:
- Preheat your Weber grill to a high temperature, around 450-500°F.
- Place the skirt steak directly over the hot coals or burner.
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice char forms.
- Reduce the heat to medium and continue grilling for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
Reverse Sear:
- Preheat your Weber grill to a low temperature, around 250-300°F.
- Place the skirt steak on the indirect heat side of the grill and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to a high temperature, around 450-500°F.
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice char forms.
Doneness and Resting
The doneness of a skirt steak is a matter of personal preference. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For a medium steak, cook to 135-140°F.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Slicing and Serving
Thinly slice the skirt steak against the grain. This will help tenderize the meat and make it easier to chew. Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a chimichurri sauce.
Variations and Enhancements
Marinades:
- Classic Chimichurri: Combine chopped parsley, cilantro, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and salt.
- Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Spicy Rub: Create a flavorful rub using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Toppings and Sauces:
- Chimichurri Sauce: Drizzle a herbaceous chimichurri sauce over the grilled steak.
- Salsa Verde: Top the steak with a tangy salsa verde made with parsley, capers, anchovies, and olive oil.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: Add a creamy and salty touch by sprinkling blue cheese crumbles over the steak.
Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife to slice the steak thinly.
- Let the steak rest before slicing to prevent the juices from escaping.
- Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough and chewy.
- Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
The Last Word: Elevate Your Grilling Skills
Mastering the art of grilling skirt steak on your Weber grill is a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. By following these steps and experimenting with different techniques and flavors, you can create mouthwatering skirt steaks that will become a cornerstone of your grilling repertoire. So fire up your grill, grab a skirt steak, and let the grilling magic begin!
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the best way to tenderize skirt steak?
A: Marinating the steak in a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes can help tenderize it. Alternatively, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak before grilling.
Q: How long should I cook skirt steak on the grill?
A: The grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. As a general guideline, grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare and 7-9 minutes per side for medium.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling skirt steak?
A: Overcooking the steak is a common mistake, as it can make the meat tough and chewy. Additionally, not letting the steak rest before slicing can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a dry steak.
