Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Soy-Glazed Flank Steak?
It is a tender beef dish marinated in a blend of soy sauce, honey, and aromatics like ginger and garlic, then grilled to achieve a caramelized glaze.
How long should I marinate the flank steak?
For the best flavor, marinate the steak for 1-2 hours at room temperature, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
What are the primary ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade includes soy sauce, honey, red wine vinegar, minced scallions, garlic, ginger, and olive oil.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be preheated to high heat to ensure a good sear and proper caramelization of the honey glaze.
How long does it take to grill the steak?
Grill the flank steak for approximately 10-12 minutes in total, turning it halfway through.
Why is it important to rest the meat after grilling?
Resting the meat for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
How should I slice the flank steak for serving?
Always slice the steak against the grain to break up the muscle fibers, which makes the meat much more tender to eat.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or maple syrup as a substitute for honey in the glaze.
What can I use if I do not have red wine vinegar?
Balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar are excellent substitutes for red wine vinegar in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, with a prep time of just a few minutes and a quick grilling time, it is ideal for both busy weeknights and weekend BBQs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve between 4 and 6 people.
Can I use ginger powder instead of fresh ginger?
Fresh ginger is recommended for the best zest, but you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
What type of soy sauce is best for this glaze?
Regular soy sauce provides the best salt balance, but low-sodium soy sauce can also be used if you are monitoring salt intake.
Do I need to discard the excess marinade?
Yes, discard marinade that has touched raw meat, or boil it for several minutes if you wish to use it as a serving sauce.
Can I cook this flank steak in a pan?
Yes, a hot cast-iron skillet or a grill pan on the stovetop can be used as an alternative to an outdoor grill.
What are the best side dishes for this steak?
This steak pairs beautifully with seasonal grilled vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or steamed rice.
How do I know when the steak is medium-rare?
Use a meat thermometer to look for an internal temperature of about 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I freeze the steak in the marinade?
Yes, you can place the steak and marinade in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months; it will marinate as it thaws.
Is flank steak a lean cut of beef?
Yes, flank steak is a relatively lean cut, which is why marinating it is so important for tenderness.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
What is the role of olive oil in the marinade?
The 1/2 cup of olive oil helps transfer the flavors of the aromatics into the meat and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
Can I use scallion whites and greens?
Yes, mincing both the white and green parts of the scallions adds the most flavor to the marinade.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
How do I store leftover flank steak?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I double the recipe for a larger party?
Absolutely, simply double all the marinade ingredients and use a larger dish or multiple bags for the steak.
Should the steak be covered while marinating?
Yes, cover the dish or use a sealed plastic bag to ensure the meat stays fresh and the marinade is contained.
Does the honey make the steak too sweet?
No, the honey provides a balanced sweetness that offsets the saltiness of the soy sauce and the acidity of the vinegar.
What if my steak is thicker than 1.5 lbs?
You may need to increase the grilling time by 1-2 minutes per side and ensure the internal temperature is monitored.
Can I substitute flank steak with skirt steak?
Yes, skirt steak is a great substitute, though it may cook slightly faster because it is often thinner.
Is fresh ginger necessary?
Fresh ginger provides a bright, spicy note that is superior to dried ginger in this specific marinade.