Ingredients
Method
Temper the Steak
- Remove the 800g skirt steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Pat the steak completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
Season the Meat
- Combine 8g fine sea salt, 4g freshly ground black pepper, 4g garlic powder, and 3g smoked paprika in a small bowl. Season the steak generously on both sides, pressing the seasoning mixture firmly into the meat to create an even coating.
Preheat the Pan
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until it begins smoking, about 3 minutes. Add 30ml olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
Sear the First Side
- Place the seasoned steak in the pan without moving it. Let it sear undisturbed for 3 minutes until a dark, caramelized crust forms on the bottom.
Flip and Baste
- Flip the steak to the second side. Immediately add 30g unsalted butter, 4 smashed garlic cloves, and 4 sprigs fresh thyme to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the steak with the foaming butter for 2 to 3 minutes.
Check Temperature and Rest
- Remove the steak from the pan when the internal temperature reaches 54°C (130°F) for medium-rare. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice and Serve
- Identify the direction of the grain (the visible muscle fiber lines) and slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Spoon the reserved pan juices and garlic over the sliced steak before serving.
Notes
- Skirt steak is a thin cut that cooks very quickly—monitor closely to avoid overcooking beyond medium-rare for optimal tenderness
- Slicing against the grain is absolutely essential; cutting parallel to the grain will result in chewy, tough meat
- If your steak is too long to fit comfortably in your pan, cut it into 2 or 3 sections before cooking
- Allow the pan to get screaming hot before adding the steak for the best caramelized crust
- Use an instant-read thermometer to accurately gauge doneness and prevent overcooking
