To cook flank steak, one of the easiest methods is to pan-sear it. First, rub the steak on both sides with oil and season with salt and pepper, then let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Heat a skillet or griddle on medium-high heat until very hot, then slowly lay the steak on the skillet. Cook the flank steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping once, until it reaches your desired doneness (125°F for rare, 130°F for medium rare, or 135°F for medium). After cooking, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. When slicing, always cut thin strips against the grain to ensure tenderness and avoid toughness.
Alternatively, grilling is also a great way to cook flank steak. Marinate the steak if desired, preheat the grill to a high heat of around 450°F, and grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side until it reaches about 130-135°F for medium rare. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing across the grain.
In all cases, the key points are using high heat to sear the steak quickly, resting the meat after cooking, and cutting against the grain to maximize tenderness.
