Cooking flank steak can be a tricky process, as it’s a lean cut of meat that can easily become tough and Chewy if overcooked. However, with the help of a sous vide machine, you can achieve perfectly cooked flank steak every time. The key is to cook it long enough to break down the tough fibers in the meat, but not so long that it loses all its flavor and texture.

What is Sous Vide Cooking?

Sous vide cooking involves sealing food in an airtight bag and immersing it in a water bath that’s been heated to a specific temperature. This method allows for precise temperature control, ensuring that the food is cooked evenly from edge to edge. It’s particularly useful for cooking meats like flank steak, which can be tricky to get right on the stovetop or grill.

How Long Should You Cook Flank Steak in the Sous Vide?

The ideal cooking time for flank steak in the sous vide depends on how thick your cut of meat is. As a general rule of thumb, you should cook it for 1 hour per inch of thickness at 130°F/54°C for medium-rare or 140°F/60°C for medium.

If your flank steak is less than an inch thick, you can reduce the cooking time accordingly. For example, if your steak is ½ inch thick, cook it for 30 minutes at your desired temperature.

Preparing Your Flank Steak for Sous Vide Cooking

Before cooking your flank steak sous vide style, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that it turns out perfectly:

  • Season your steak with salt and pepper or any other seasonings you prefer.
  • Vacuum seal your seasoned steak in an appropriate-sized bag.
  • Preheat your sous vide machine according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Set the temperature to your desired level of doneness.
  • Submerge the bagged steak in the water bath and cook for the appropriate amount of time.

Finishing Your Flank Steak

Once your flank steak has finished cooking in the sous vide, it’s time to finish it off with a quick sear on the stovetop or grill. This will give it a nice crust and enhance the flavor.

To sear your steak, heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat until smoking hot. Remove your flank steak from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned and crispy.

The Bottom Line

Cooking flank steak sous vide is a foolproof method for achieving perfectly cooked meat every time. By following these guidelines for cooking times and finishing techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy tender, juicy flank steak that’s bursting with flavor. So break out your sous vide machine and get ready to impress your dinner guests with this delicious cut of meat!