The Perfect Crock Pot Flank Steak: A Tender and Flavorful Delight

Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of succulent beef wafting through the air. The thought alone is enough to make your mouth water. Slow cooking is the secret to transforming a simple cut of meat into a fork-tender delicacy. And when it comes to slow-cooked beef, flank steak reigns supreme.

Unleashing the Magic of Slow Cooking

The beauty of slow cooking lies in its simplicity. With minimal effort, you can achieve outstanding results. Unlike traditional cooking methods that require constant monitoring, the slow cooker does all the work for you. Just imagine waking up in the morning, throwing all the ingredients into the pot, and coming back after a busy day to a perfectly cooked meal.

To enhance the flavor and texture of your dish, consider adding mushrooms and onions. These humble ingredients elevate the taste and provide a delightful contrast in every bite. The best part? They require minimal prep, making this dish both convenient and delicious.

Let’s explore some tips to ensure your slow-cooked flank steak turns out perfectly.

Does Flank Steak Get More Tender with Time?

Absolutely! One of the great benefits of slow cooking flank steak is that the longer you cook it, the more tender it becomes. So, even if you’re running late, there’s no need to worry. The extra time will only improve the tenderness and flavor of the meat. However, be aware that the tenderness of flank steak differs from that of T-bones or New York strips. While those cuts are best enjoyed medium rare, flank steak is at its best when slow-cooked to perfection.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

When it comes to cooking times, patience is key. Flank steak typically takes around 8 hours to cook thoroughly. Of course, this may vary depending on the thickness of your cut. To ensure your meal stays warm until dinner time, consider using a programmable slow cooker that automatically switches to the “keep warm” setting when the cooking cycle is complete.

Choosing the Right Cut for Your Slow Cooker

While flank steak is an excellent choice for slow cooking, you can also experiment with chuck roast for added flavor. The marbling and additional fat in chuck roast contribute to a richer taste. Flank steak, on the other hand, is a lean cut that requires ample moisture to prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.

The Art of Slow Cooking: Flank Steak in a Nutshell

The true magic of slow cooking lies in the sauce. While you can take the easy route and use a pre-packaged slow cooker sauce, the best results are achieved with a homemade mushroom gravy. The ingredients are simple, yet they add layers of depth and flavor to your dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5-2 lb flank steak
• Olive oil for coating
• Minced roasted garlic
• Beef broth
• Sliced mushrooms
• Onions of your choice
• Salt and pepper
• Butter
• Thyme
• A hint of cayenne for a subtle kick
• Cornstarch for thickening the sauce

Simply layer the meat and vegetables in your slow cooker, and pour the liquid ingredients over them. Let the slow cooker work its magic for 8-10 hours on low heat. Once the steak is fully cooked, remove it, along with the mushrooms and onions, from the pot. In a small bowl, whisk together some of the cooking liquid with cornstarch to create a thick and savory gravy. Return the beef, mushrooms, and onions to the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the flavors. Finally, shred or slice the meat and serve it over garlic mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Slow Cooked Perfection: How to Slow Cook Flank Steak

If you’re ready to embark on a slow cooking adventure with flank steak, here’s a quick step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Slice your onions and set them aside. Coat the flank steak with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme on top. Slice the mushrooms and set them aside.
2. Place the flank steak in the slow cooker, surrounding it with the mushrooms and onions. Dot the mushrooms with butter and pour beef broth over the steak.
3. Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic for 8-10 hours on low heat. Once the steak is fully cooked, transfer it, along with the mushrooms and onions, to a dish. Set them aside.
4. Pour about half a cup of the cooking liquid into a small bowl. Whisk in cornstarch and a dash of cayenne pepper (if desired) to create a thicker gravy.
5. Return the beef, mushrooms, and onions to the slow cooker and pour in the thickened gravy. Allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Shred or slice the meat and serve it over garlic mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.

Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy: A Mouthwatering Delight

There are countless ways to enjoy your slow-cooked flank steak. Some prefer to squeeze lime juice on top and serve it in tacos, while others relish the opportunity to smother it in rich brown gravy over a bed of tender potatoes. No matter how you choose to savor this dish, one thing is certain—it will quickly become one of your favorite steak recipes of all time.

If you’ve already tried and loved this recipe, why not explore other culinary adventures? For a similar experience, consider our slow cooker carne asada recipe, which also calls for flank steak. Alternatively, you can experiment with skirt steak, offering a slightly different texture and flavor. Give both cuts a try and see which one tickles your taste buds.

Conclusion

The art of slow cooking is a game-changer, turning ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Flank steak shines in the slow cooker, delivering unparalleled tenderness and flavor. With a simple yet flavor-packed mushroom gravy, you’ll savor every bite of this delectable meal. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and prepare to be amazed by the magic of slow-cooked perfection.

Ready to master the art of slow cooking? Visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ for more culinary inspiration.