Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Enjoy this delicious Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce. In just 6-8 hours of cooking time, savor tender flank steak with fresh herbs and spices. Perfect for family dinners!

about introduction

welcome to the world of slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce , a dish that marries tender meat with zingy freshness, this recipe has roots deeply embedded in latin american cuisine, particularly argentina, where flank steak is celebrated for its robust flavor and versatility, the chimichurri sauce, a vibrant blend of herbs and spices, adds character and brightness to the dish, traditionally served alongside grilled meats, this sauce has gained global fame for transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences .

one of the unique selling points of this slow cooker recipe is its simplicity combined with rich flavors, it allows you to enjoy tender steak without spending hours in the kitchen, you can set it up in just 15 minutes and let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you go about your day. plus, it's an excellent option for meal prep perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends .

slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce : a culinary journey

the history behind slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce is nothing short of fascinating, flank steak has been a staple cut among argentine gauchos (cowboys), who would prepare it over open flames during long cattle drives, the chimichurri sauce dates back to these same traditions; it was created as a fresh condiment that could accompany any grilled meat a true symbol of communal dining.

this dish carries cultural significance beyond just being delicious; it's emblematic of sharing good food and celebrating life together around the table, fast forward to modern - day kitchens worldwide, and you'll find variations popping up everywhere from backyard barbecues to cozy dinners at home each iteration echoing that rich heritage while adapting effortlessly into contemporary lifestyles .

your new favorite slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce

what makes slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce stand out ? first off, those unique flavor combinations. the marriage between smoky paprika, spicy garlic, and zesty lime creates an explosion on your palate like no other. and if you're worried about cooking techniques fear not. this foolproof method uses simple steps designed even for novice cooks .

with expert - tested methods ensuring consistent results every time you make it it’s hard not to fall head over heels for this dish. plus, i've got some time - saving tips hidden within this recipe that way you can spend less time worrying about dinner prep and more time enjoying your meal.

health & nutrition highlights

now let’s talk health because who doesn’t love nutritious food ? this slow - cooked flank steak packs a punch when it comes to nutritional benefits; each serving provides ample protein essential for muscle repair while keeping carbs low (only 5 grams.), if you're following specific dietary guidelines or need something gluten - free or dairy - free the beauty lies within customizing ingredients according to what suits you best.

wellness advantages are abundant here too : thanks largely due to vibrant fresh herbs found in chimichurri which boost immunity along with providing antioxidants - hello healthy living. so yes you can indulge while still feeling good about what goes onto your plate.

nutritional information at a glance

• calories : 375 kcal
• protein : 32g
• fat : 25g
• carbohydrates : 5g

recipe at a glance

here’s everything you need summarized neatly so there won’t be any surprises :

• total preparation time : just 15 minutes.
• skill level required : easy as pie (or should i say easy as chimichurri ?)
• serving size details : serves four people generously .
• cost efficiency : very budget - friendly considering all those heavenly flavors packed into one pot.

whether you're looking for something simple yet delightful or seeking ways to impress guests without losing precious moments mingling this slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce ticks all boxes. get ready because once you've tried it you might just find yourself making it again…and again…(trust me on this one).

master ingredient list

premium core ingredients

when it comes to crafting your slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce, the quality of your core ingredients can make a world of difference, here’s what you need to know :

• flank steak (2 lbs) : look for flank steak that has a nice marbling those little white flecks of fat add flavor and tenderness, freshness is key; check the sell - by date and avoid any packages that look discolored or have an off smell .

• olive oil (1 tablespoon) : go for extra virgin olive oil if possible, it has a richer flavor profile which will enhance your dish significantly, store it in a cool, dark place to keep its freshness longer .

• salt & black pepper : opt for kosher salt over table salt as it gives better control when seasoning, for black pepper, freshly cracked is always best it adds a punch.

• onion (1, sliced) : yellow onions are ideal here because they become sweet when cooked down, choose firm ones without soft spots or blemishes .

• garlic (4 cloves, minced) : fresh garlic packs more flavor than pre - minced options. look for bulbs that are plump and tight - skinned .

• beef broth (1 cup, low sodium) : homemade broth is fantastic if you have time; otherwise, aim for high - quality store - bought brands without too many additives .

• worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon) : check for varieties without added sugars or preservatives this sauce adds depth to your meat.

• smoked paprika (2 teaspoons) & cumin (1 teaspoon) : these spices should be fresh. a sniff test works wonders; if they don’t smell aromatic ? toss ‘em out.

signature seasoning blend

now let’s jazz things up with our signature seasoning blend. this mix makes all the difference in elevating those flavors :

• spice combinations : the smoked paprika brings warmth while cumin adds earthiness the perfect duo. you can also toss in some chili powder or even ground coriander if you're feeling adventurous .

• herb selections : for the chimichurri sauce, fresh parsley and cilantro are non - negotiables. they give this recipe its vibrant green color and zesty kick, make sure they’re bright green no wilting allowed.

• flavor enhancers : besides worcestershire sauce, consider adding lime zest to your steak before cooking it gives an unexpected zing that dances on the palate.

• aromatic additions : if you want to take it up another notch, try adding some bay leaves during cooking just remember to fish them out before serving since no one wants a surprise leaf on their plate.

smart substitutions

sometimes life throws us curveballs or we just run out of something at home. here’s how you can still pull off this delicious meal :

• alternative options : if flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak works great as well. just adjust cooking times based on thickness; it's like picking between two equally charming friends.

• dietary swaps : for gluten - free folks using worcestershire sauce ? there are gf versions available at most stores now and just as tasty.

• emergency replacements : no beef broth ? chicken broth will do in a pinch but may slightly alter the taste profile .

• seasonal variations* : when summer rolls around and tomatoes are bursting with flavor ? toss in some diced fresh tomatoes into the slow cooker a refreshing twist worth trying.

kitchen equipment essentials

cooking doesn’t have to be complicated but having the right tools certainly helps streamline things :

must - have tools :

you’ll need :

• a good - quality skillet for searing that beautiful flank steak .

• your trusty slow cooker is there anything better than coming home to an already - cooked meal ?

recommended appliances :

if you plan on making chimichurri often i’d say invest in a food processor it whips everything together so nicely instead of hand chopping herbs forever.

helpful gadgets :

a set of measuring spoons will help ensure every ingredient is precise in cooking “a pinch” can mean different things depending on who you ask.

pro ingredient tips

let’s face it we all love saving money while eating delicious food :

selection secrets : always shop seasonal produce; not only does it taste better but also costs less when farmers' markets overflow with goodies.

quality markers : look closely at packaging dates on items like spices they lose potency over time .

storage solutions : keep herbs wrapped in damp paper towels inside plastic bags they stay fresher longer this way.

so there you go a complete guide filled with all sorts of tips from selecting top - notch ingredients down through kitchen essentials that'll help bring your slow cooker magic alive. happy cooking ya'll.

foolproof cooking steps for slow cooker flank steak with chimichurri sauce

cooking flank steak in a slow cooker is one of those magical processes that makes life easier and tastier, seriously, it’s like setting it and forgetting it. let’s break down the steps to ensure you nail this recipe every time .

essential preparation steps

1, mise en place :

• gather all your ingredients before you start cooking, for this dish, you'll need 2 pounds of flank steak, olive oil, onions, garlic, beef broth, worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and fresh herbs for chimichurri .
• chop the parsley and cilantro finely about a cup each zest and juice a lime too, don’t forget to mince four cloves of garlic.

1, prep techniques :

• slice the onion into rings; they’ll go in the bottom of your slow cooker as a flavorful base .
• mince garlic (i usually smash then chop), you want everything prepped so when you're rolling through the steps later on; you're not scrambling .

1, time management :

• total prep time is about 15 minutes if you’re organized .
• cooking takes anywhere from 6 - 8 hours on low or 3 - 4 hours on high, plan around these timelines so dinner can be ready when you are.

1, organization tips :

• keep your workspace tidy. it helps prevent accidents (like dropping minced garlic everywhere) and keeps things moving smoothly .
• lay out all tools needed slow cooker lid nearby ? forks ready for shredding meat ? check.

professional cooking method

1, step - by - step process :

• season both sides of your flank steak generously with salt and pepper .
• heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium - high heat until shimmering but not smoking .

1, temperature control : – sear that steak for about 3 - 4 minutes per side until browned you want color here. this step adds depth to flavors later on . – then transfer the seared steak into your slow cooker .

1, timing precision : – layer sliced onions first at the bottom; sprinkle minced garlic over them before placing that beautiful piece of meat right on top. – mix up beef broth with worcestershire sauce and spices in a separate bowl it smells divine.

1, success indicators : – pour this mixture over everything in your slow cooker; cover it up tightly. – set it to low for at least six hours or high if you're running short on time .

expert techniques

1, professional methods : – while waiting for magic to happen inside that slow cooker, whip up some chimichurri sauce by combining parsley, cilantro, lime zest/juice, minced garlic plus red pepper flakes alongside olive oil in another bowl .

1, critical steps : – allow those flavors to meld; letting it sit while cooking means each ingredient gets cozy together the longer they rest together enhances flavors.

1, precision points : – after cooking time ends (when it's tender enough to shred), carefully lift out the flank steak using tongs it may fall apart slightly that's okay.

4 quality checks :

- shred using two forks until it's bite - sized pieces if fork slides through easily without resistance that means success.

success strategies

1 troubleshooting tips :
– if you find yourself questioning tenderness after set times have passed . ., just give it more love (aka cook longer), it'll get there eventually.

2 quality assurance :
– taste test while shredding. if seasoning needs adjustment ? toss on more salt or even drizzle some extra chimichurri mix directly onto shredded meat as needed .

3 perfect results guide :
– a good rule is understanding cut thickness affects timing a thicker piece might require extra cooking compared to thinner cuts.

4 final touches :
serve generously drizzled with chimichurri sauce along side warm tortillas or quinoa salad… whatever floats your boat really.

there ya go a foolproof guide that'll help anyone create deliciously tender slow - cooked flank steak topped off perfectly with zesty chimichurri sauce every single time. just remember patience pays off while cooking the best meals often come from taking our time ☺️

success guaranteed tips

when it comes to slow cooker flank steak, a few professional insights can take your dish from good to absolutely delicious, first off, don’t rush the searing step. giving that steak a nice brown crust seals in flavors and adds depth .

also, consider using homemade beef broth if you have some on hand, it really amps up the flavor game compared to store - bought options, oh, and don’t forget about seasoning don’t be shy with salt and pepper.

for expert techniques, let’s chat about resting time, after cooking, let your meat rest for at least 10 minutes before shredding it, this helps retain moisture so every bite is juicy and tender .

lastly, kitchen wisdom : if you're short on time during the week but still want this incredible meal, prep everything ahead of time. chop those veggies and season that steak in advance so when it's slow - cooker day, you just throw it all together .

perfect presentation

now that we’ve nailed down our flank steak recipe let's talk presentation. plating techniques can make even a simple dish look gourmet, start by fluffing up the shredded meat using two forks; this gives it an inviting texture .

for garnish ideas, sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over your plated dish it adds vibrant color and freshness. drizzle chimichurri sauce artfully around the meat instead of just over it for extra visual appeal .

serving suggestions ? pair this tasty dish with fluffy quinoa or cilantro lime rice both add flavor without overpowering the star of the show (that’s our flank steak.), and remember : food should look as good as it tastes.

storage & make - ahead

let’s face it; leftovers can be just as delightful as freshly cooked meals. for storage guidelines, keep any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days .

if you’re looking into preservation methods for longer - term storage ? freeze portions in freezer - safe bags just make sure to label them with dates so you know what’s what.

reheating instructions are straightforward too : gently warm on low heat either on the stovetop or microwave until heated through to maintain tenderness .

and here’s a freshness tip : if reheating from frozen, always thaw overnight in your fridge first before warming up this keeps things juicy rather than turning them into rubbery bites.

creative variations

don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe. flavor adaptations could include switching out spices; try adding chipotle powder for smokiness or garlic powder for an extra punch .

dietary modifications are easy too; swap flank steak for chicken breast if you're looking for something lighter or go plant - based altogether by using jackfruit.

seasonal twists could involve adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers during fall or summery corn kernels when they’re fresh that way each bite reflects what's ripe at any given moment.

regional variations also add flair; think about infusing some mexican vibes with taco seasoning instead of traditional spices or marinating beforehand in citrus juices typical of south american cuisine .

expert faq solutions

got questions ? we’ve got answers. one common concern is how do i ensure my meat doesn’t dry out ? well friends you’ve already got that covered by not skipping searing and letting it rest after cooking .

another frequent query involves timing what if my slow cooker runs hot ? keep an eye on temperature gauges because every machine varies slightly, trust yourself (and maybe set a timer), but check after 5 hours on low just in case things speed along faster than expected.

troubleshooting guide alert : if you find there’s excess liquid post - cooking (sometimes happens.), simply simmer uncovered briefly while shredding until reduced down a quick fix that'll save dinner plans from catastrophe.

and lastly… success tips for maximum tenderness aim high with quality cut meats like grass - fed options they might cost more upfront but trust me it pays off where taste matters most.

complete nutrition guide

curious about nutrition facts ? here we break down all those numbers per serving so you know exactly what you're enjoying : around 375 calories packed within each bite alongside approx 32g protein content a win - win situation if you're focusing on muscle health too.

health benefits abound thanks to lean cuts offering iron important for energy levels plus plenty of b vitamins essential throughout body functions from metabolism support right down through cellular repair processes all vital stuff folks shouldn’t overlook when reaching dinner plates nightly across homes everywhere trying new recipes together creatively sharing meals made lovingly by hands preparing them daily at kitchen counters alike…

portion guidance suggests sticking close towards one - quarter pound servings which equals roughly four ounces per person to keep balanced diets while savoring delectable flavors combined beautifully straight from slow cookers filled joyfully awaiting eager family members gathering round tables ready dig into sumptuous feasts prepared ahead carefully anticipating laughter shared moments celebrating life itself connected through shared experiences enjoyed wholeheartedly via culinary adventures taken within loving kitchens everywhere full hearts beating proudly alongside appetites craving nourishing delights served warm directly upon tables laid perfectly ready wait . . .

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