Olivia Carter
Do you want to enjoy a tender and flavorful flat iron steak without the hassle of grilling or pan-searing? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! Cooking flat iron steak in a slow cooker is a foolproof method that guarantees juicy and mouthwatering results every time.
The flat iron steak, also known as a shoulder top blade steak, is a budget-friendly cut of beef that is known for its rich marbling and intense flavor. It comes from the shoulder area of the cow and is incredibly tender when cooked properly. By using a slow cooker, you can take this already delicious cut of meat to the next level of tenderness and flavor.
One of the great advantages of using a slow cooker is that it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, breaking down tough connective tissues and resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re a busy professional or just prefer a hands-off cooking approach, the slow cooker is a fantastic tool for achieving restaurant-quality flat iron steak in the comfort of your own home.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking flat iron steak in a slow cooker. From preparing the steak to seasonings and cooking times, we will cover everything you need to know to create a delicious and tender meal that will impress your family and friends. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Choose the Right Flat Iron Steak
When cooking a flat iron steak in a slow cooker, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. The flat iron steak is a tender and flavorful cut that comes from the shoulder of the cow. It is well-marbled with fat, which adds to its flavor and juiciness.
When selecting a flat iron steak, look for one that is bright red in color and has a good amount of marbling throughout the meat. Avoid steaks that have a dark brown color or appear dry, as this indicates that the meat may be past its prime.
It is also important to pay attention to the thickness of the steak. A thinner cut of flat iron steak, around 1 inch thick, is ideal for cooking in a slow cooker as it will cook evenly and become tender. Thicker cuts may take longer to cook and may not become as tender.
Another factor to consider when choosing a flat iron steak is the grade of the meat. Look for a steak that is labeled as USDA Choice or USDA Prime, as these grades indicate that the meat has more marbling and tenderness compared to lower grades. However, keep in mind that higher quality meat may also come with a higher price tag.
| Choosing the Right Flat Iron Steak |
|---|
| Look for a bright red color |
| Check for good marbling |
| Avoid steaks that appear dry or discolored |
| Choose a thinner cut, around 1 inch thick |
| Consider the grade of the meat (USDA Choice or Prime) |
Look for Marbling
When choosing a flat iron steak for slow cooker cooking, it is essential to look for marbling. Marbling refers to the streaks of fat that run through the meat. This intramuscular fat adds flavor and helps to keep the meat moist and tender during the slow cooking process.
Look for cuts with a good amount of marbling throughout the meat. The fat should be evenly distributed, and the meat should have a bright red color. Avoid steaks with large pockets of fat or lean cuts with minimal marbling, as they may not turn out as well in the slow cooker.
If possible, choose steaks that are labeled as “choice” or “prime” grade, as these tend to have a higher degree of marbling. However, keep in mind that flat iron steak is already a flavorful and tender cut, so even a lower-grade steak can still be delicious when cooked in a slow cooker.
Remember to trim any excess fat from the steak before adding it to the slow cooker, as this can contribute unnecessary grease to the dish. However, do not trim away all the fat, as it helps to enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meat.
Tip: If you are unable to find flat iron steak with enough marbling, you can try substituting it with another well-marbled cut of beef, such as chuck roast or brisket.
Check for Thickness
Before cooking your flat iron steak in the slow cooker, it’s important to check the thickness of the steak. This will help you determine the appropriate cooking time and temperature.
Using a ruler or tape measure, measure the thickness of the steak at its thickest point. Ideally, the steak should be about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick. If it is thicker than that, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If the steak is too thin, it may cook too quickly and become dry and overcooked. If it is too thick, it may take longer to cook and result in a tough texture.
Once you have determined the thickness of the steak, you can move on to preparing it for cooking in the slow cooker.
Prepare the Flat Iron Steak
Before cooking your flat iron steak in a slow cooker, it’s essential to prepare the meat properly. Follow these steps to ensure delicious results:
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 pound of flat iron steak
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of beef broth
Season the Steak
Start by seasoning the flat iron steak with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step helps enhance the flavor of the meat.
Heat the Olive Oil
In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will give the steak a nice brown crust and seal in the juices.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Remove the steak from the frying pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they soften and turn golden brown, usually about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Place the seared flat iron steak on top. Pour the beef broth over the steak, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Now that the flat iron steak is prepared, you are ready to begin the slow cooking process. Follow the remaining steps in this guide to learn how to cook the steak in a slow cooker.
Season with Salt and Pepper
Before cooking your flat iron steak in the slow cooker, it’s important to season it well with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the natural flavors of the meat and ensure a delicious end result.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by patting the steak dry using paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better to the meat. Once the steak is dry, generously sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be sure to season the steak evenly to ensure consistent flavor.
Step 2: Massage the Seasoning
After seasoning the steak, use your hands to gently massage the salt and pepper into the meat. This helps the seasoning penetrate the surface and infuse the meat with flavor. Take your time to ensure that the entire steak is well coated with the seasoning.
Note: If you prefer an extra kick of heat, you can also add other seasonings such as chili powder, garlic powder, or paprika at this stage. However, for a simple and classic flavor, salt and pepper are sufficient.
Step 3: Let the Steak Rest
After seasoning the steak, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will give the salt and pepper enough time to work their magic and enhance the flavor of the meat.
Now that your flat iron steak is properly seasoned, it’s ready to be cooked in the slow cooker. Follow the remaining steps in the recipe to achieve a tender and flavorful steak that will melt in your mouth.
Let It Rest at Room Temperature
Before cooking your flat iron steak in the slow cooker, it is important to let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to come to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly.
Allowing the steak to rest at room temperature also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicier final dish. This step is particularly important for thicker cuts of steak, like the flat iron steak, as it ensures that the inside of the meat cooks properly.
Cooking the Flat Iron Steak in the Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is a convenient and easy way to cook a flat iron steak. This method ensures that the steak is tender and flavorful. Here’s how you can cook a delicious flat iron steak in your slow cooker:
- Start by seasoning the flat iron steak. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other spices or herbs you prefer.
- Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Sear the seasoned flat iron steak on both sides until it develops a nice brown crust. This step is important for adding flavor to the steak.
- Transfer the seared flat iron steak to the slow cooker.
- Add some liquid to the slow cooker to help keep the steak moist as it cooks. You can use beef broth, red wine, or even water. Pour the liquid over the steak.
- Add any additional vegetables or aromatics to the slow cooker, such as onions, garlic, or herbs. These will enhance the flavor of the steak.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the steak on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the steak.
- Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Before serving, you can choose to sear the steak again in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side to get a crispy crust.
- Slice the flat iron steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Using the slow cooker to cook a flat iron steak takes the hassle out of cooking and results in a delicious and tender meal. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful and juicy steak!
Sear the Steak
Before slow cooking the flat iron steak, it’s important to sear it to enhance the flavor and texture. Searing the steak will also help to lock in the juices and create a nice crust on the outside.
Preheat the Skillet
Start by preheating a skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat. It’s important to use a skillet that can withstand high heat, such as a cast-iron skillet.
Add Oil and Heat
Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, and let it heat up. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
Sear the Steak
Place the flat iron steak in the hot skillet and let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a brown crust forms. Avoid moving the steak too much during this process to allow for a proper sear.
Remember that searing the steak is only meant to brown the outside and enhance the flavor. The steak will continue to cook and become tender in the slow cooker.
| Tip: |
|---|
| Consider seasoning the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices before searing to add extra flavor. |
Once the flat iron steak is seared, it’s ready to be placed in the slow cooker for the remaining cooking time. The searing process adds an extra level of flavor to the steak and ensures a delicious result.
Place in the Slow Cooker
Before cooking your flat iron steak in the slow cooker, make sure to season it with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat.
Place the seasoned steak in the slow cooker and add any desired vegetables or herbs. You can choose to add onions, garlic, carrots, or rosemary based on your personal preferences. These ingredients will infuse the meat with delicious flavors as it cooks.
Next, pour in a liquid of your choice to help keep the steak moist. You can use beef broth, red wine, or even just water. The liquid will also help to create a flavorful sauce for the steak.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking method will make the flat iron steak tender and juicy.
During the cooking process, you can check on the steak occasionally and baste it with the liquid in the slow cooker. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Once the cooking time is up, remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serve the tender and delicious flat iron steak with the cooked vegetables and sauce from the slow cooker. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
Questions and answers
What is a flat iron steak?
A flat iron steak is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Why cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Cooking flat iron steak in a slow cooker helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the steak to become tender and juicy.
What ingredients do I need to cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
To cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients: flat iron steak, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice.
