Spiced Flat-Iron Steak with Garlic Paprika Rub
This Spiced Flat-Iron Steak is a delectable dish that elevates an innovative cut of meat known for its tenderness and flavor. Sourced from the shoulder top blade, the flat-iron steak boasts a distinctive rectangular shape that makes it both visually appealing and easy to cook. This recipe, inspired by Silvia Lehrer's Cooking column, brings together a rich blend of spices including paprika, cumin, and garlic powder to create a savory dry rub that enhances the steak's natural taste. Perfectly seared and juicy, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it an ideal choice for an impressive dinner or a special occasion.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon (coarse)
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon
Cumin
1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon
Flat iron steaks
2 (6 ounce) (shoulder top blade steaks)
Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir until evenly mixed to create a dry rub.
2
Pat the flat-iron steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Generously apply the spice mixture to both sides of the steaks, ensuring an even coating. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and rub gently to adhere the seasoning.
3
Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until it is hot. To test if the skillet is ready, flick a few drops of water onto the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
4
Carefully place the seasoned steaks into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a beautiful crust to form.
5
Turn the steaks over and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for medium rare, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.
6
Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat for a more succulent bite.
7
Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides, enjoying the rich flavors of this simple yet exquisite dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flat-iron steak?
A flat-iron steak is an innovative cut of meat sourced from the shoulder top blade, known for its tenderness and distinctive rectangular shape.
What ingredients are in the garlic paprika rub?
The dry rub consists of kosher salt, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
How should I prepare the steaks before seasoning?
You should pat the flat-iron steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture before applying the spice mixture.
What type of skillet is best for cooking this steak?
A large cast-iron skillet is recommended for achieving a beautiful crust and even heat distribution.
How long should I preheat the skillet?
Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until it is hot.
How can I test if the skillet is hot enough?
Flick a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the skillet is ready.
What is the recommended cooking time for the first side of the steak?
Cook the steaks for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them to allow a crust to form.
How long should I cook the second side for medium rare?
For medium rare, cook the second side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Why is it important to let the steak rest?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a more succulent and flavorful bite.
How long should the steak rest after cooking?
The steaks should rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
How should the flat-iron steak be sliced?
The steak should be sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.
What are the recommended side dishes for this meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Who inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by Silvia Lehrer's cooking column.
Is extra virgin olive oil used in this recipe?
Yes, two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil are used to help the seasoning adhere to the meat.
How many steaks are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two 6-ounce flat-iron steaks.
What are the primary flavors in the spice rub?
The primary flavors are savory and earthy, provided by paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
What is the preparation style for the kosher salt?
The kosher salt should be coarse for the best texture in the rub.
Is this considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and a main course, perfect for an impressive dinner.
Can I adjust the cooking time for other levels of doneness?
Yes, you can adjust the cooking time on the second side to reach your preferred level of doneness.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 6 ingredients: salt, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, steaks, and olive oil.
Does the recipe require a grill?
While it is tagged with 'grilling', the instructions specify using a cast-iron skillet on a stovetop.
What makes the flat-iron steak visually appealing?
Its distinctive rectangular shape makes it easy to cook and visually striking when sliced.
How much cumin is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of cumin.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Should the rub be applied to both sides?
Yes, you should generously apply the spice mixture to both sides of the steaks.
What cuisine style does this dish fall under?
This dish is categorized under American cuisine.
Is there a specific way to apply the oil?
Drizzle the oil over the seasoned steaks and rub gently to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
Should I move the steak around while it sears?
No, you should cook the first side without moving the steaks to ensure a proper crust forms.
What is the source of the steak cut?
The steak is sourced from the shoulder top blade of the cow.