If you're looking for a foolproof way to cook flank steak, look no further than the instant pot. This versatile kitchen gadget can help you whip up juicy and tender flank steak in no time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to learn how to cook flank steak in the instant pot and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
Why Flank Steak is a Great Choice for Instant Pot Cooking
Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that benefits from being cooked low and slow to prevent it from becoming tough. The instant pot is the perfect tool for this as it allows you to cook the steak quickly under high pressure, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that falls apart easily.
In addition to its tenderness and flavor, flank steak is also a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be sliced thinly for sandwiches, tacos, or salads, or served as a main course with a side of vegetables. Flank steak also absorbs marinades well, making it a great choice for adding extra flavor to your meals. Plus, it's a relatively affordable cut of meat, making it a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd.
Choosing the Best Cut of Flank Steak for Instant Pot Cooking
When choosing your flank steak, look for a piece that is well-marbled with fat and has a bright red color. Avoid cuts that are discolored or have a lot of visible fat. It's also important to select a flank steak that will fit comfortably in your instant pot.
Another important factor to consider when selecting a flank steak for instant pot cooking is the thickness of the cut. Thicker cuts will require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts will cook more quickly. If you're short on time, opt for a thinner cut of flank steak.
Additionally, consider the grade of the meat. Flank steak is typically graded as either Select, Choice, or Prime. Prime grade flank steak will have the most marbling and tenderness, but it can also be more expensive. Select grade flank steak can still be a good option for instant pot cooking, as long as it is well-marbled and not too tough.
Preparing Your Flank Steak for the Instant Pot
Before cooking your flank steak in the instant pot, you'll need to prepare it first. This involves trimming any excess fat and marinating it to infuse it with flavor. You can also season the steak with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
It's important to let the flank steak marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking it in the instant pot. This will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat and make it more tender. You can use a variety of marinades, such as a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, or a more complex blend of soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Experiment with different marinades to find your favorite flavor combination.
Seasoning Options for Flank Steak in Instant Pot
The seasoning options for flank steak in the instant pot are endless. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. You can also add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Another great option for seasoning flank steak in the instant pot is to use a marinade. A simple marinade can be made with olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking in the instant pot. This will infuse the steak with a delicious flavor and make it even more tender.
How to Sautee Flank Steak in the Instant Pot
To sautee flank steak in the instant pot, select the "saute" function and heat up some oil. Once the oil is hot, add the flank steak and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned. This will give your meat a nice crust and seal in the juices.
It's important to note that the thickness of your flank steak will affect the cooking time. Thicker cuts may require additional time to cook through, while thinner cuts may cook more quickly. To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for a temperature of 135°F, while medium should be around 145°F.
Adding Liquids to Your Flank Steak in the Instant Pot
After sauteeing your flank steak, it's important to add liquids to the instant pot to prevent it from drying out. You can use beef broth, red wine, or even water to add flavor and moisture to the meat.
It's important to note that the amount of liquid you add will depend on the size of your instant pot and the amount of meat you're cooking. As a general rule, you should add at least ½ cup of liquid for every pound of meat. However, if you're cooking a larger cut of meat, you may need to add more liquid to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays moist.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines for Flank Steak in the Instant Pot
The cooking time and temperature for flank steak in the instant pot will depend on the size and thickness of your cut, as well as your desired level of doneness. As a general rule of thumb, cook your flank steak on high pressure for 10 minutes per inch of thickness for medium-rare, and 12 minutes per inch for medium.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the altitude of your location. If you are cooking at a high altitude, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure that the meat is fully cooked.
Additionally, before cooking your flank steak in the instant pot, it is recommended to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming tough or chewy.
Natural Pressure Release vs Quick Release for Flank Steak in Instant Pot
When cooking flank steak in the instant pot, it's important to let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes to allow the meat to rest and avoid overcooking. Alternatively, you can use the quick release function to release the pressure immediately, but this may result in drier meat.
It's also important to note that the thickness of the flank steak can affect the cooking time and pressure release method. Thicker cuts may require a longer natural pressure release time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender. Additionally, if you're using a marinade or seasoning on the flank steak, it's best to let the pressure release naturally to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Removing and Resting Your Flank Steak from the Instant Pot
Once your flank steak is cooked, carefully remove it from the instant pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute. This will ensure that your meat is juicy and flavorful.
While your flank steak is resting, you can use this time to prepare any sides or sauces that you plan to serve with it. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a chimichurri sauce.
It's important to note that flank steak should be sliced against the grain to ensure tenderness. Look for the lines running through the meat and slice perpendicular to them. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Slicing and Serving Your Perfectly Cooked Flank Steak from the Instant Pot
When slicing your flank steak, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve your perfectly cooked flank steak with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Another important tip when slicing your flank steak is to use a sharp knife. A dull knife can tear the meat and make it less tender. Additionally, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can use the leftover flank steak in a variety of dishes, such as tacos, stir-fry, or sandwiches. Just make sure to reheat it gently to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Your Flank Steak from the Instant Pot
There are plenty of delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with flank steak from the instant pot. These include roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a refreshing wedge salad. Choose your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Flank Steak from the Instant Pot
If you have leftover flank steak from your instant pot, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or heat up on the stove with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings.
Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Flank Steak in the Instant Pot
For perfectly cooked flank steak in the instant pot, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You can also experiment with different marinades and seasonings to add variety to your meals. Don't be afraid to get creative!
By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to cook juicy and tender flank steak in the instant pot with ease. Impress your family and friends with your culinary skills and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
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