The No-Frills Rule For Perfect Medium Rare Skirt Steak

If you're looking for a quick and easy dish to wow dinner guests — or you simply want to treat yourself to an indulgent meal without too much of an effort — go for a skirt steak. A cut best enjoyed medium rare, we have the best method of ensuring that you get that perfect crusted exterior and tender pink center on your skirt steak every time. The bottom line? Do it hot and fast. 

Because the skirt cut is so thin and delicate, it has an incredibly short cook time. You really don't want to overcook a skirt steak, as it's likely to become tough and chewy. The resting time is equally as important as the cooking time — give your skirt steak at least 10 minutes to sit before cutting to ensure that it doesn't dry out. You shouldn't need more than 30 minutes, start to finish, to end up with a delicious, crusty skirt steak cooked a perfect medium rare. Now, Let's get into the particulars.

Skirt steak is the long, flat, moderately fatty strip found just under the diaphragm of the cow. Don't confuse it for flank though; skirt contains more fat, giving it a richer flavor. Skirt is ideal for things like fajitas, salads, and even with eggs, but you can take a page from our book and serve it on its own accompanied with something as simple as chimichurri.

Start by preheating your pan (we recommend using a cast iron skillet). Allow the skillet to get hot over low heat for five to 10 minutes. You can oil the pan, or alternatively oil your steak (this option is best for non-marinated recipes). Use a neutral, high smoke point cooking oil of your choice (because this is a high-heat method of cooking, you should skip the olive oil), and once oiled, season your skirt with kosher salt and black pepper. (If you're going for more complexity of flavor, try using our marinade.) After the skillet is preheated, turn the heat up to high, lay your steak flat, and leave it alone for two to three minutes. It's important not to disturb the steak during this time. Then, flip it over to the other side and cook for an additional two minutes.