Zesty Chipotle-Infused Flank Steak
Savor the rich, smoky flavors of this Zesty Chipotle-Infused Flank Steak, perfect for grilling enthusiasts looking to elevate their steak game. The marinade combines fresh lime juice, vibrant cilantro, and spicy chipotle chiles in adobo, infusing the meat with a delightful blend of heat and sweetness. This versatile recipe can be made with either flank steak or top round steak, making it adaptable to your preferences. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or at your next barbecue gathering, this tender and juicy steak is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef flank steak or top round steak
1 (about 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 pounds, cut into 1-inch thick pieces)
salt
to taste (seasoning)
fresh lime juice
1/3 cup (juiced from fresh limes)
chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
brown sugar
1 tablespoon (packed)
minced chipotle chiles in adobo
2 teaspoons (for added heat)
adobo sauce
2 tablespoons (from the chipotle chiles)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
freshly grated lime peel
1 teaspoon (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, mix together the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, brown sugar, minced chipotle chiles, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated lime peel to create a flavorful marinade.
2
Place the beef steak in a food-safe plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the steak is well-coated by turning the bag. Seal the bag securely and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3
When ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the marinade and season the steak with salt to taste.
4
Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring the coals are ash-covered for even cooking. Place the steak on the grill, cooking uncovered for approximately 17 to 21 minutes for flank steak (16 to 18 minutes for top round steak), turning occasionally for even cooking until it reaches medium rare to medium doneness.
5
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Then, carve the steak across the grain into thin slices for serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Chipotle-Infused Flank Steak?
It is a smoky, flavorful steak dish marinated in a blend of lime juice, fresh cilantro, and chipotle chiles in adobo for a balance of heat and sweetness.
What cuts of meat can I use for this recipe?
You can use either beef flank steak or top round steak, ideally about 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 pounds.
How long should the steak marinate?
The steak should be refrigerated in the marinade for at least 6 hours, or overnight for a deeper infusion of flavor.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, brown sugar, minced chipotle chiles, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and grated lime peel.
How thick should the steak be?
The steak should be cut into approximately 1-inch thick pieces for optimal cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 teaspoons of minced chipotle chiles in adobo and 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce to provide a delightful spicy heat.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Mix the lime juice, cilantro, brown sugar, chipotle chiles, adobo sauce, garlic, and lime peel together in a small bowl.
How much lime juice is required?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of fresh lime juice.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
What type of sugar is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar to add a hint of sweetness.
How should I coat the steak with marinade?
Place the steak in a food-safe plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, and turn the bag to ensure it is well-coated before sealing.
Should I keep the leftover marinade?
No, you should discard the marinade after removing the steak to prevent food safety issues.
When should I season the steak with salt?
Season the steak with salt to taste after removing it from the marinade and just before placing it on the grill.
What grill temperature is recommended?
Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring the coals are ash-covered.
How long does it take to grill the flank steak?
Flank steak takes approximately 17 to 21 minutes to grill uncovered.
How long does it take to grill the top round steak?
Top round steak takes approximately 16 to 18 minutes to grill uncovered.
Should the steak be covered while grilling?
No, the steak should be cooked uncovered on the grill.
How often should I turn the steak?
Turn the steak occasionally during the grilling process to ensure even cooking.
What is the recommended doneness for this steak?
The steak should be cooked until it reaches a medium rare to medium doneness.
Should I let the steak rest after cooking?
Yes, allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the grill to retain its juices.
How should the steak be carved for serving?
The steak should be carved across the grain into thin slices.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a rich, smoky flavor with vibrant citrus notes and a blend of spicy and sweet elements.
What can I serve with this steak?
It pairs well with grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or your favorite side dishes.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue?
Yes, it is perfect for grilling enthusiasts and a great choice for family dinners or barbecue gatherings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total, including the steak and seasonings.
How much cilantro is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro.
What is the purpose of the lime peel?
One teaspoon of freshly grated lime peel is used to enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
Is the steak tender?
Yes, the marinade and carving across the grain help ensure the steak is tender and juicy.
What is 'adobo sauce' used in this recipe?
Adobo sauce is the liquid found in cans of chipotle chiles; it adds depth and smokiness to the marinade.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies fresh cilantro for the best flavor, though dried could be used in a pinch (using less as it is more concentrated).