Olivia Carter
Are you a fan of slow cooking? Do you love the tender and juicy texture of a perfectly cooked steak? If so, you might be wondering if you can cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker. Well, the good news is that you absolutely can!
Flat iron steak is a flavorful and affordable cut of beef that is known for its tenderness. It is taken from the shoulder of the cow and is well-marbled, making it perfect for slow cooking. While slow cooking is typically reserved for tougher cuts of meat, flat iron steak is an exception. The slow cooking process helps to break down the collagen in the meat, resulting in a steak that is fork-tender and full of flavor.
So how do you cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker? It’s actually quite simple. Start by seasoning the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. Then, sear the steak in a hot skillet to develop a nice crust. Next, transfer the steak to your slow cooker and add any additional ingredients, such as onions, garlic, or herbs. Cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your preference and the thickness of the steak. When it’s done, the steak will be tender and ready to be enjoyed.
So if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to cook a delicious flat iron steak, why not give the slow cooker method a try? Not only will you be rewarded with a flavorful and tender steak, but you’ll also have a meal that requires minimal effort. So go ahead, dust off your slow cooker and get cooking!
How to Cook Flat Iron Steak in a Slow Cooker
Slow cookers are a great tool for cooking various cuts of meat, and flat iron steak is no exception. This flavorful and tender cut of beef can be easily transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal with the help of a slow cooker. Here’s how you can cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of flat iron steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: your favorite herbs and spices for seasoning
Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the flat iron steak with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned flat iron steak on both sides until it develops a nice crust. This will help lock in the juices and create a more flavorful steak.
- Transfer the seared steak to the slow cooker, laying it on top of the onion and garlic mixture.
- Pour the beef broth over the steak, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking the steak will help break down the tough connective tissues and result in a tender and juicy steak.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and ensure a moist and flavorful steak.
- Serve the slow-cooked flat iron steak with the onions and garlic from the slow cooker, and enjoy!
Using a slow cooker to cook flat iron steak allows for hands-off cooking and ensures a tender and succulent result. The low and slow cooking process helps to tenderize the steak while infusing it with the flavors of the onions and garlic. Give this method a try and enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal!
Choosing the Right Cut
When it comes to cooking steak in a slow cooker, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. The flat iron steak is a great option for slow cooking as it is a tender and flavorful cut.
The flat iron steak comes from the shoulder of the cow and is known for its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness. It is also a relatively affordable cut compared to other popular steak cuts.
When purchasing a flat iron steak for slow cooking, look for a piece that is well-marbled and has even thickness throughout. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and results in tender and juicy meat.
Another factor to consider when choosing the right cut for slow cooking is the size of the steak. A smaller flat iron steak will cook faster and may become overcooked if left in the slow cooker for too long. On the other hand, a larger steak may take longer to cook and may need to be trimmed or cut into smaller pieces to fit in the slow cooker.
In summary, the flat iron steak is a great choice for slow cooking as it is tender, flavorful, and affordable. When selecting a flat iron steak for slow cooking, choose a well-marbled piece with even thickness and consider the size of the steak to ensure even cooking.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating your flat iron steak can add flavor and help tenderize the meat, making it more enjoyable to eat. Here are some options for marinating your steak before cooking it in a slow cooker:
1. Classic Marinade
A classic marinade for flat iron steak typically includes soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a bit of oil. Combine these ingredients in a bowl or a ziplock bag and add the steak. Make sure the steak is coated with the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or overnight. This marinade will enhance the flavor of the steak and give it a delicious savory taste.
2. Citrus Marinade
If you prefer a tangy flavor, you can try a citrus marinade. Squeeze the juice of lemon, lime, or orange and mix it with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the steak in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. The citrus marinade will add a refreshing and zesty taste to your flat iron steak.
After marinating the steak, you can proceed with cooking it in the slow cooker. Remember to discard the marinade and pat the steak dry before placing it in the slow cooker. This will help prevent excess liquid and ensure proper cooking. Enjoy your tender and flavorful flat iron steak cooked to perfection in a slow cooker!
Preparing the Slow Cooker
Before you start cooking your flat iron steak in a slow cooker, you need to properly prepare the appliance. Follow these simple steps to ensure optimal cooking results:
1. Clean the Slow Cooker
Thoroughly clean the slow cooker with warm soapy water, rinsing it well to remove any soap residue. This step is important to prevent any flavors from previous meals from affecting the taste of your steak.
2. Coat the Slow Cooker with Cooking Spray
After cleaning, lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray. This step will help prevent the steak from sticking to the bottom and sides of the cooker during the cooking process.
3. Preheat the Slow Cooker
It is not necessary to preheat the slow cooker like you would with an oven, but it is a good idea to turn it on to the desired cooking temperature about 10-15 minutes before adding the steak. This will ensure that the slow cooker reaches the proper temperature and that the steak cooks evenly.
By properly preparing your slow cooker, you can ensure that your flat iron steak cooks to perfection and is full of flavor. Now that your slow cooker is ready, it’s time to move on to the next step of cooking the steak.
Cooking the Flat Iron Steak
There are several ways to cook a flat iron steak, and using a slow cooker is one option. This method can result in a tender and flavorful steak that is perfect for low and slow cooking.
Here is a simple recipe for cooking a flat iron steak in a slow cooker:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – 1 flat iron steak | 1. Season the flat iron steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. |
| – Salt and pepper | 2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. |
| – Other desired seasonings | 3. Transfer the seared steak to a slow cooker. |
| – 1 cup beef broth | 4. Pour beef broth over the steak in the slow cooker. |
| – Vegetables, such as onions and carrots (optional) | 5. Add any desired vegetables, such as onions and carrots, to the slow cooker. |
| – Fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme (optional) | 6. Add fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, for extra flavor (optional). |
| – Garlic cloves (optional) | 7. Add garlic cloves for additional taste (optional). |
| 8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the steak is tender. | |
| 9. Once cooked, remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. | |
| 10. Slice the steak against the grain and serve it with the vegetables and cooking liquid from the slow cooker. |
This slow cooker method is a convenient way to cook a flat iron steak, especially if you prefer a hands-off cooking approach. The result is a deliciously tender and flavorful steak that is sure to impress.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your flat iron steak is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, it’s time to serve and enjoy the delicious meal. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your tender steak:
1. Slicing the Steak
Before serving, let the steak rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
2. Pairing with Side Dishes
Flat iron steak goes well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The juicy and flavorful steak will complement these sides perfectly.
Additionally, you can use the slow-cooked flat iron steak as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some sautéed onions, bell peppers, and your favorite dressing for a delicious lunch or dinner option.
Remember to garnish your plated steak with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for an added touch of freshness and color.
Enjoy your slow-cooked flat iron steak with your favorite beverage and good company. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can you cook a flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a flat iron steak in a slow cooker. Although slow cookers are typically used for braising tougher cuts of meat, the flat iron steak is tender enough to be cooked in this way. It will result in a juicy and flavorful steak that is easy to prepare.
How long does it take to cook a flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Typically, it takes about 6 to 8 hours to cook a flat iron steak in a slow cooker on low heat. This slow cooking process allows the steak to become tender and develop rich flavors. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the steak, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
What are some recommended seasonings to use when cooking a flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
When cooking a flat iron steak in a slow cooker, you can use a variety of seasonings to enhance its flavor. Some popular options include a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to infuse additional aromatic flavors. It’s best to season the steak before placing it in the slow cooker to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat during the cooking process.
