Flank steak with chipotle-maple glaze is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the sweetness of maple syrup. This recipe is inspired by Chuck Evans, who fell in love with chipotle sauces during his travels in Guatemala and Mexico. He was a pioneer in popularizing chipotle as a spice in the 1980s when it was still relatively unknown in certain regions. The glaze in this recipe features a perfect blend of maple syrup, hot sauce, lime juice, and garlic, which creates a tantalizing marinade for the flank steak. Grilling the steak over high heat adds a wonderful char and enhances the flavors. Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering steak with a touch of heat and sweetness.
INGREDIENTS:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup hot sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1½ pounds flank steak
- ½ teaspoon coarse salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- In a bowl, combine the maple syrup, hot sauce, lime juice, and chopped garlic to create the chipotle-maple glaze.
- Place the flank steak in a shallow baking dish and season it with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Pour the chipotle-maple glaze over the steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat.
- Prepare a hot fire in a charcoal or gas grill.
- Grill the marinated flank steak over direct high heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Once grilled, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness and serve immediately.
SERVES 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Marinating the flank steak overnight allows the flavors of the chipotle-maple glaze to infuse into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. If you don’t have enough time, marinate it for at least 2 hours to maximize the flavor.
- When grilling the flank steak, high heat is essential to achieve a nicely charred exterior while keeping the interior juicy and cooked to your desired doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and personal preference.
TIPS:
- Serve the flank steak with additional chipotle-maple glaze on the side for those who desire extra heat and sweetness.
- Pair the steak with grilled vegetables, such as peppers, onions, or zucchini, to create a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
- For added freshness and texture, garnish the sliced flank steak with chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.
Flank steak with chipotle-maple glaze is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and the sweetness of maple syrup. Inspired by Chuck Evans and his love for chipotle sauces, this recipe showcases the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The chipotle-maple glaze, featuring maple syrup, hot sauce, lime juice, and garlic, creates a flavorful marinade that transforms the flank steak into a delectable and tender delight.
By marinating the flank steak overnight, the flavors of the chipotle-maple glaze penetrate the meat, infusing it with a delightful combination of smoky heat and subtle sweetness. The grilling process adds a charred crust to the steak while maintaining its juiciness and tenderness. Slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain ensures each bite is tender and bursting with flavor.
To enhance the dining experience, serve the flank steak with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad. The additional chipotle-maple glaze can be served on the side, allowing each person to customize the level of heat and sweetness according to their preference. This dish is perfect for a gathering with friends and family or a special dinner that will impress your taste buds.
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as you savor each bite of this delicious flank steak. The fusion of chipotle and maple flavors creates a memorable dining experience, leaving you craving more. So fire up the grill, marinate the flank steak, and get ready to indulge in the tantalizing combination of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness.
