Tuesday Tasties: Seared Skirt Steak

Finally! I'm sorry I could not get this post out yesterday, but I simply ran out of time in the day. Today, the recipe is skirt steak. This is a piece of meat that I am sure can be cooked a variety of ways, but we will focused on cast iron skillet searing it, because that is how I know to cook it.

Click image to enlarge.

Now, just to warn you right now: you might need to disconnect your smoke alarm for this recipe. A combination of high heat and oil on a cast iron pan means lots of smoke! Here
are some examples:

Click image to enlarge.

The exhaust above the stove was on, the nearby window and kitchen door were open, but the smoke just kept coming! The entire room was very hazy, and I am surprised that the smoke alarm was not tripped. Maybe we should check that soon. Anyways, just be warned that it will get a little smoky during this recipe, and don't be alarmed. So, the ingredients for this recipe are as follows:

• 1 Skirt Steak
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• salt
• pepper

You will also need some paper towels, a cooling rack (just to hold the resting meat), and a large bowl or some aluminum foil. Here is how you start this recipe.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

The measurements were not specific for the salt and pepper, simply "season liberally." However, Alton did say that he puts 1/4 teaspoon salt and half that in pepper per side. We tried this, and it was a tad salty for our taste. Just make sure you put enough to give the meat some flavor, so you do not have to add salt after it is cooked. Once you have finished seasoning both sides of the meat:

Click image to enlarge.

While the meat sits, for the last three minutes of its sitting time you could preheat the skillet.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Not moving the meat allows it to get a crispier outside. Cook the first side three minutes, then flip the meat and repeat. Also, put the "pretty" side of the meat first on the skillet. When the meat is flipped, the pan won't be as hot, so the second side won't look as pretty. Once the second side of the meat has cooked for three minutes, remove the meat from the skillet and do this.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

The reason we cut skirt steak against the grain is because it is a very tough piece of meat. Cutting across the grain will lead to short meat fibers and easier-to-chew slices. Make sure the slices are thin, too.

Click image to enlarge.

And there it is! An easy recipe, altogether, and some simple ingredients, too. I hope you like this blog post, and if you have any comments leave them below or on my share to Facebook.