Flank Steak Crock Pot: A Deliciously Tender Dinner Made Easy

Flank steak is a lean cut of beef taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is a distinct grain packed with beefy flavor. While it is traditionally grilled or seared, slow cooking benefits its natural texture and connective tissues immensely. Here's why:

1. Tenderization: The slow cooking process breaks down the tough fibers, making flank steak buttery soft.
2. Flavor Infusion: A crock pot allows the steak to soak up the flavors of the seasonings, sauces, and vegetables in the pot.
3. Convenience: Set it and forget it! The crock pot does the work while you focus on other tasks.

Tips for Preparing Flank Steak for the Crock Pot

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While not mandatory, marinating the flank steak overnight enhances its taste. For a savory-sweet profile, Consider a marinade with soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, and honey.
2. Sear Before Slow Cooking: Browning the steak in a skillet before placing it in the crock pot helps seal in juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor.
3. Slice Against the Grain: After cooking, always slice flank steak against the grain for optimal tenderness.
4. Choose Complementary Ingredients: Flank steak pairs well with bold flavors such as garlic, onion, peppers, tomatoes, and spices like cumin or paprika.

Pairing Ideas

Flank steak cooked in a crock pot pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Fresh coleslaw
• Cornbread

Ingredients

For the Steak and Vegetables:

• 2 pounds of flank steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Warm tortillas or rice
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak (Optional)

   Combine soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and olive oil in a zip-top bag. Add the flank steak and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Sear the Steak

   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade (if used) and pat it dry. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

3. Assemble Ingredients in the Crock Pot

   Place the sliced onion and bell peppers at the bottom of the crock pot. Add the minced garlic. Lay the seared flank steak on top of the vegetables.

4. Add Liquid and Seasonings

   Pour the beef broth and diced tomatoes over the steak. Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the steak is well-coated.

5. Cook Low and Slow

   Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The steak should be tender enough to pull apart with a fork.

6. Shred and Serve

   Remove the steak and shred it using two forks. Return it to the crock pot and mix with the juices and vegetables. Serve over rice, in tortillas, or alongside a fresh salad.

One of the best things about cooking flank steak in crock pot is its versatility. With just a few ingredient swaps or additions, you can take this hearty dish in entirely new flavor directions. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Mexican-Inspired Flank Steak

   Turn your crock pot flank steak into the star of a Mexican fiesta. Add ingredients like black beans, corn, and diced green chilies for a vibrant, flavorful twist. Replace the beef broth with enchilada sauce for an extra punch. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle powder for smoky heat. Serve shredded steak in tortillas topped with fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and crumbled queso fresco.

2. Asian-Style Flank Steak

   For an Asian twist, swap out the tomatoes and beef broth for soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar. Add a tablespoon of ginger and garlic for depth. Toss in shredded carrots, broccoli florets, and snap peas in the last hour of cooking for a complete meal. Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.

3. Italian-Inspired Flank Steak

   Transform your flank steak into a comforting Italian dish using marinara sauce instead of diced tomatoes. Add fresh basil, oregano, and garlic for a robust flavor. Pair it with roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Serve the tender steak over creamy polenta or al dente pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

4. BBQ Flank Steak

   Replace the broth with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy barbecue flavor. Add a dash of liquid smoke and mix in thinly sliced onions. For a mouthwatering BBQ sandwich, serve the shredded steak on toasted buns with coleslaw.

Each variation showcases flank steak's versatility while keeping the cooking process simple. Whether you crave bold, spicy flavors or prefer a comforting classic, there's a crock pot flank steak recipe to suit your taste.

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