Smoking a flank steak is a great way to infuse it with delicious smoky flavor. However, one of the most common questions asked by beginners is “how long does it take to smoke flank steak?”
The answer to this question depends on several factors such as the size of the steak and the temperature of your smoker. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these factors and provide you with some general guidelines for smoking a perfect flank steak every time.
The Size of Your Flank Steak
The first factor that will affect how long it takes to smoke your flank steak is its size. A larger piece of meat will naturally take longer to cook than a smaller one.
As a rule of thumb, you should plan on smoking your flank steak for about 30 minutes per pound. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate and you should always rely on a meat thermometer to determine when your steak is fully cooked.
The Temperature of Your Smoker
The temperature at which you smoke your flank steak will also play a crucial role in determining how long it takes to cook. The ideal temperature range for smoking meat is between 225°F and 250°F. At this temperature range, you can expect your flank steak to take approximately 2-3 hours to fully cook.
Preparing Your Flank Steak for Smoking
Before smoking your flank steak, there are a few preparation steps that you should follow:
- Remove any excess fat or silver skin from the surface of the steak.
- Season the meat with your favorite dry rub or marinade.
- Allow the steak to come up to room temperature before placing it in the smoker.
Smoking Your Flank Steak
Now that you have prepared your flank steak for smoking, it’s time to get it into the smoker. Follow these steps to ensure a successful smoke:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F-250°F.
- Place your seasoned flank steak on the smoker rack and close the lid.
- Smoke your steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F-140°F for medium-rare, or 145°F-150°F for medium.
- Remove the steak from the smoker and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfectly Smoked Flank Steak
To ensure that your flank steak turns out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Invest in a good quality meat thermometer to accurately gauge when your steak is fully cooked.
- Avoid opening the smoker lid too frequently as this can cause fluctuations in temperature and increase cooking time.
- If you’re using wood chips for smoking, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from catching fire and producing bitter smoke.
Conclusion
Smoking a flank steak can be a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With these guidelines, you now have a better understanding of how long it takes to smoke flank steak.
Remember that every cut of meat is unique, so always rely on a meat thermometer to determine when your steak is fully cooked. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to smoking perfect flank steaks every time.