Grilled skirt steak with chimichurri is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender, juicy steak and a vibrant, herbaceous sauce. Originating from Argentina, this culinary masterpiece is a true delight for meat lovers.
In this post, we will explore the perfect seasoning for skirt steak, a delicious chimichurri sauce recipe, and the best accompaniments to serve alongside this delectable dish.
Whether you're planning a weekend barbecue or a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its robust flavors and cultural significance.
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Skirt Steak: The Perfect Cut for Grilling
When it comes to grilling, the choice of meat can make all the difference in creating a delicious and satisfying meal. While popular cuts like beef tenderloin or ribeye often take the spotlight, there's one cut that should not be overlooked: skirt steak.
Skirt steak is derived from the diaphragm muscle of the cow and boasts a long, thin shape with visible marbling throughout. This marbling not only contributes to its flavor but also ensures a tender and juicy result when grilled.
One of the great advantages of skirt steak is its versatility and affordability. Whether you're preparing carne asada tacos for a casual gathering or aiming for a classic steak dinner, skirt steak proves to be a flavorful and budget-friendly option.
Of course, seasoning is key when it comes to enhancing the natural flavors of any cut of meat, and skirt steak is no exception. The right combination and amount of spices can elevate your skirt steak from good to extraordinary. By choosing a blend that complements its robust taste, you can create a truly memorable grilling experience.
Consider a seasoning blend that includes elements like kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and perhaps a hint of cumin. These flavors work harmoniously to add depth and complexity to the steak, enhancing its inherent taste without overpowering it.
By taking the time to season the skirt steak thoroughly and allowing it to rest, you ensure that the flavors have time to penetrate the meat. This step contributes to a more well-rounded and enjoyable eating experience.
Unleashing the Flavors of Argentinian Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce, originating from Argentina, is a tangy and herbaceous condiment that has gained worldwide popularity for its unique and intense flavor profile. Made with fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil, this versatile sauce serves as an excellent marinade or dressing for grilled meats, vegetables, and even seafood. When paired with grilled skirt steak, it becomes the perfect companion, elevating the dish to new heights.
The star of chimichurri sauce is undoubtedly parsley, contributing to its vibrant green color and fresh taste. For added complexity, herbs like oregano or cilantro can be incorporated, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Meanwhile, garlic adds a pungent and aromatic element, while a pinch of red pepper flakes provides a subtle and delightful kick of heat that harmonizes with the dish rather than overpowering it.
Creating chimichurri sauce is a simple process. Begin by finely chopping the herbs and garlic, then whisk them together with vinegar and olive oil. This combination allows the flavors to meld, creating a well-balanced and harmonious sauce. To enhance the taste, season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes, adjusting the quantities to suit your personal preference.
Allowing the chimichurri sauce to rest for around 20 minutes before serving is crucial. This resting period allows the flavors to mingle and intensify, resulting in a more robust and well-rounded taste. The sauce is now ready to be drizzled over grilled skirt steak or used as a dipping sauce, infusing the dish with its tangy acidity and spicy heat.
The beauty of chimichurri sauce lies in its ability to enhance and complement various dishes. Its versatility extends beyond grilled skirt steak, making it a delightful accompaniment for grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or even as a dressing for salads. With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors, chimichurri sauce adds a touch of Argentinian flair to any culinary creation.
How To Grill Skirt Steak Chimichurri
After preparing your skirt steak, the next step is to preheat your grill to high heat. This ensures that the grill is hot enough to sear the steak and lock in its flavors.
Once the grill is preheated, remove the skirt steak from the marinade, gently shaking off any excess liquid. Place the steak directly on the grill grates, allowing it to cook over the high heat.
Cook the skirt steak for approximately four to five minutes per side, adjusting the time based on your preferred level of doneness. Keep in mind that skirt steak is best enjoyed when cooked to medium-rare or medium for optimal tenderness. However, you can adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired level of doneness.
As the steak cooks, you'll notice the tantalizing aroma and the sizzling sound as it gets those delicious grill marks. It's essential to keep an eye on the steak and monitor its progress to ensure it doesn't overcook or char too much.
Once the skirt steak reaches your desired level of doneness, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs or a spatula. Transfer the steak to a clean cutting board or platter, and here comes an important step: let it rest for about 10 minutes. You can set a timer using a device like Alexa to ensure the perfect timing.
Allowing the steak to rest is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute and settle back into the meat. This resting period ensures a more succulent and flavorful final result. During this time, the steak continues to cook slightly and becomes even more tender.
Resist the temptation to cut into the steak immediately, as this can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier piece of meat. Instead, use this resting period to prepare any sides or finish up any remaining meal preparations.
How to Cut Grilled Skirt Steak
When it comes to cutting skirt steak, it's important to follow the right technique to ensure a tender and delicious result. Many people make the mistake of simply slicing it from side to side, but this can leave you with a tough and chewy steak. To avoid that, here are some tricks to help you achieve the perfect cut:
Cut into thin strips: If the skirt steak is running longwise from north to south, start by cutting it into 2-3 inch segments running east to west. This will create a starting point for slicing it correctly.
Rotate the segments: Take each 2-inch segment and rotate it so that the side that was not cut (the outside crust) is facing towards you. This step is crucial as it sets up the proper orientation for cutting against the grain.
Slice and serve: Now, slice the segment facing you, cutting from east to west. By doing this, you are cutting against the grain of the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful slices. This technique ensures that you break up the muscle fibers, reducing any chewiness and maximizing the tenderness of the steak.
By following these steps, you can transform your skirt steak into a tender and enjoyable dining experience. Cutting against the grain allows the natural flavors to shine and ensures that each bite is a pleasure to savor. So, take the time to cut your skirt steak properly, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Ideal Pairings: What to Serve with Grilled Skirt Steak and Chimichurri
When it comes to serving grilled skirt steak with chimichurri, there are numerous delectable options. Traditional Argentine side dishes such as grilled corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad make excellent accompaniments.
The natural sweetness of the corn complements the rich flavors of the steak, while the roasted potatoes offer a satisfying contrast in texture.
Furthermore, consider adding some charred vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus to your plate. The smoky flavors from the grill will harmonize perfectly with the steak and chimichurri.
For a heartier option, you can serve the skirt steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful rice pilaf.
Another popular choice is to serve the steak with warm tortillas or crusty bread, allowing guests to make their own mouthwatering steak sandwiches or sliders. This adds a fun and interactive element to the dining experience, allowing everyone to personalize their meal according to their preferences.
If you're looking to incorporate more flavors from South America, consider serving the grilled skirt steak with a side of traditional Argentinian empanadas.
These savory pastries filled with beef, cheese, or vegetables are the perfect complement to the steak and chimichurri, providing a complete Argentinian culinary experience.
To enhance the overall dining experience, consider pairing the dish with a bottle of Argentinian Malbec wine. The bold and fruity characteristics of this red wine variety beautifully complement the flavors of the steak and chimichurri, elevating the meal to a whole new level.
Grilled Skirt Steak With Chimichurri Sauce: Tips for Success
To ensure a successful skirt steak marinade with chimichurri, here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
Conclusion: Grilled skirt steak with chimichurri
A culinary delight that brings together the robust flavors of perfectly seasoned steak and the vibrant, herbaceous notes of chimichurri sauce. By following a simple marinade and grilling process, you can create an authentic Argentinian experience in the comfort of your own home.
Whether served with traditional sides, in sandwiches, or paired with a bottle of Malbec wine, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
So fire up the grill, prepare the chimichurri sauce, and get ready to indulge in a flavorful and unforgettable dining experience with grilled skirt steak and chimichurri sauce.
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Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri frequently asked Questions
A: Chimichurri sauce is traditionally served with grilled meats, particularly beef. Skirt steak, flank steak, and other cuts with robust flavors are excellent choices to pair with chimichurri. However, chimichurri can also complement other proteins like chicken, pork, or even grilled vegetables.
A: Skirt steak cooks quickly due to its thinness, typically requiring 3-5 minutes per side on a preheated grill over medium-high heat for medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness and the thickness of the steak.
A: To ensure skirt steak isn't tough, it's crucial to cook it to the correct temperature and slice it properly. Grill skirt steak quickly over high heat to medium-rare or medium doneness, then let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender texture.
A: Yes, marinating skirt steak for too long can result in an overly soft texture or a mushy consistency due to the acids in the marinade breaking down the meat fibers. It's generally recommended to marinate skirt steak for 30 minutes to 2 hours for optimal flavor without compromising texture.
A: Skirt steak and flank steak are similar but come from different parts of the cow. While they have comparable textures and flavors, they are distinct cuts. Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscle and is longer and thinner, while flank steak comes from the abdominal area and is thicker and wider.
A: Chimichurri sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, seafood, and even as a dipping sauce for bread. Common accompaniments include grilled potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. The vibrant flavors of chimichurri complement a wide range of dishes, adding brightness and depth to the meal.
Charcoal Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri
Equipment
- 1 Weber Kettle Charcoal Grill
Ingredients
Chimichurri
- ½ Cup Chopped Parsley
- ½ Cup Chopped Onion
- 1 tsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tsp Sea Salt
- ¾ tsp Fresh Pepper
- ¾ Cup Olive Oil
- ¼ Cup Red Wine Vinegar
Skirt Steak
- 2 lbs Skirt steak
- 1 tsp Sea Salt
- ½ tsp Fresh Pepper
- ¼ Cup Olive Oil
Instructions
Chimichurri Instructions
- Place all of the chimichurri ingredients into a bowl and mix thoroughly.
Skirt Steak Instructions
- Rub the olive oil, sea salt, and pepper all over the skirt steak
- Place steaks on grill and let cook for 3 minutes on one side and 2 minutes on the other side for medium rare. Keep the steak on 3 minutes per side for medium.
- Pull steaks off grill and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Cut the steak against the grain of the beef.
- Top steak with homemade chimichurri
