Grilling revolution: how to cook skirt steak to perfection with chimichurri’s fiery kiss

Craving a succulent and flavorful steak experience? Look no further than skirt steak, a cut known for its intense beefy taste and juicy texture. When paired with the vibrant and aromatic chimichurri sauce, this dish becomes a culinary masterpiece. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into every aspect of how to cook skirt steak with chimichurri, ensuring you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

What is Skirt Steak?

Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef taken from the diaphragm of the cow. It is prized for its rich beefy flavor, slight chewiness, and ability to absorb marinades well.

Ingredients for Chimichurri

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Chimichurri

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Selecting and Preparing the Skirt Steak

1. Choose a skirt steak with good marbling and a deep red color.
2. Trim any excess fat or gristle.
3. Score the steak across the grain to help it cook evenly.

Marinating the Skirt Steak

1. Place the steak in a large bowl or resealable bag.
2. Pour 1/2 cup of the chimichurri sauce over the steak and massage it in.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Grilling the Skirt Steak

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry.
3. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Slicing and Serving

1. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. Serve the skirt steak with the remaining chimichurri sauce on top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Tips for Cooking Skirt Steak with Chimichurri

• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak thinly, which will help tenderize it.
• Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the steak in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• For a more intense flavor, marinate the steak for longer.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the chimichurri sauce to create your own unique flavor profile.

Variations

• Grilled Skirt Steak with Salsa Verde: Substitute the chimichurri sauce with a tangy salsa verde made from fresh parsley, capers, and lemon juice.
• Pan-Seared Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Butter: Sear the steak in a pan with butter and then top it with a compound butter made with chimichurri ingredients.
• Skirt Steak Tacos with Chimichurri: Thinly slice the steak and serve it in tortillas with chimichurri sauce, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Steak Game

With this comprehensive guide, you now possess the knowledge and techniques to cook a delectable skirt steak with chimichurri that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a culinary novice, this dish is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use flank steak or hanger steak. However, skirt steak is the preferred cut for its intense flavor and thinness.

Q: How long can I marinate the steak?
A: You can marinate the steak for as little as 4 hours or as long as overnight. Longer marinating times will result in a more flavorful steak.

Q: What side dishes pair well with skirt steak with chimichurri?
A: Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad are all great options to complement the steak.