Wagyu beef is a highly sought-after delicacy that is renowned for its incredible marbling, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and rich, buttery flavor. One popular cut of Wagyu beef is the flank steak, which is a lean, flavorful cut that can be cooked in a variety of ways.
But should you marinate your Wagyu flank steak before cooking it? Let’s take a closer look.
What is marinating?
Marinating involves soaking meat in a mixture of liquids and seasonings to add flavor and tenderize the meat. Marinating typically involves combining an acid (such as vinegar or citrus juice) with oil and herbs or spices. The acid helps to break down the muscle fibers in the meat, making it more tender, while the oil and seasonings add flavor.
Why marinate Wagyu flank steak?
Wagyu beef already has plenty of natural flavor and tenderness thanks to its high levels of intramuscular fat. Some people argue that adding additional flavors through marinades can detract from the natural taste of the beef. However, others believe that marinating Wagyu flank steak can help to tenderize it further and add complementary flavors.
If you’re planning to grill or broil your Wagyu flank steak, adding a marinade can also help to prevent it from drying out during cooking. This is particularly important if you prefer your steak cooked beyond medium-rare.
How to marinate Wagyu flank steak
If you decide to marinate your Wagyu flank steak, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose your marinade ingredients carefully – simple marinades with just a few ingredients are often best.
- Avoid using too much acid in your marinade – this can actually toughen the meat rather than tenderizing it.
- Don’t over-marinate your steak – 30 minutes to an hour is usually sufficient.
- Pat the steak dry before cooking it – excess marinade can cause flare-ups on the grill or prevent a good sear from forming on the stovetop.
Some popular marinade ingredients for Wagyu flank steak include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and citrus juice. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to find a flavor combination that you love.
Conclusion
So, should you marinate your Wagyu flank steak? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
Marinating can help to add flavor and tenderize the meat further, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you do decide to marinate your steak, be sure to choose your ingredients carefully and don’t overdo it. With proper preparation and cooking techniques, your Wagyu flank steak will be delicious either way.