Mojo Marinated Skirt Steak: A Flavorful Path to Grilling Mastery
Ingredients for Mojo Marinade
The heart of this recipe is the mojo marinade, which infuses the steak with a vibrant mix of flavors:
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1⁄3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1⁄4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparing the Marinade
Creating the marinade is a straightforward process, but each step ensures maximum flavor:
- Combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl or a zip-top plastic bag.
- Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste.
- Whisk or shake until the ingredients are fully integrated.
Marinating the Skirt Steak
Marinating is where the magic begins:
- Take a 2-pound skirt steak, trim any excess fat, and place it into the marinade.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
- Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for a deeper flavor.
🔎 Note: Over-marinating can make the meat too tender, causing it to fall apart when cooked.
Grilling Tips for Perfection
| Grill Preparation | Grilling Time |
|---|---|
| Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. | 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare |
| Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. | Adjust time based on steak thickness |
| Cook with the lid closed for even heat distribution. | Rest the steak for 5 minutes before slicing |
Resting and Slicing
After grilling, the steak needs to rest:
- Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain for the most tender bite.
🌟 Note: The direction of the cut is vital; slicing against the grain ensures tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
The grilled skirt steak can be served in many ways to elevate your meal:
- Serve with traditional sides like black beans, rice, or grilled vegetables.
- Add to tacos with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter touch.
From the zesty marinade to the juicy, perfectly grilled steak, this Mojo Marinated Skirt Steak recipe is an example of how simple ingredients can create a dish bursting with flavor. Remember, the key to this dish lies not just in the ingredients but also in the techniques: marinating for the right amount of time, grilling at the perfect temperature, and resting the meat appropriately. Use these tips to achieve grilling perfection every time you fire up your grill.
How long should I marinate the skirt steak?
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The optimal marinating time for skirt steak is between 2 to 8 hours. Beyond this, the steak might become too tender and could lose its texture.
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
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Yes, while skirt steak is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness when grilled, you can also use flank steak, hanger steak, or even chicken breasts for a different experience.
What’s the best way to tell when the steak is done?
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Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results. Medium-rare should be around 130-135°F. Alternatively, a visual guide or the “touch test” can be used, but they require experience.
