Poached Flank Steak Recipe with Dijon Mustard Glaze and Nectarine Salsa

Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that can elevate any meal. This Poached Flank Steak Recipe with Dijon Mustard Glaze and Nectarine Salsa is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a stunning dish that will impress your guests. The poaching technique ensures the meat remains tender, while the tangy glaze and refreshing salsa add a burst of flavor. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

For the Poached Flank Steak:

• 1.5 pounds flank steak
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dijon Mustard Glaze:

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Nectarine Salsa:

• 2 ripe nectarines, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Poaching the Flank Steak

1. Prepare the Poaching Liquid: In a large pot, combine beef broth, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook the Flank Steak: Once the poaching liquid is simmering, carefully add the flank steak. Cover the pot and poach for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Make sure to monitor the heat to avoid boiling; a gentle simmer is key.
3. Rest the Meat: Remove the flank steak from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Step 2: Preparing the Dijon Mustard Glaze

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, rosemary, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Glaze the Steak: Brush the Dijon glaze generously over the sliced flank steak to enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Making the Nectarine Salsa

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine diced nectarines, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Gently toss to mix all the flavors.
2. Chill: Let the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the poached flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it alongside a generous scoop of nectarine salsa for a refreshing contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light green salad.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose ripe nectarines for the salsa to ensure a sweet and juicy complement to the steak. Fresh herbs, like rosemary and cilantro, will elevate the flavors immensely.
• Dietary Variations: For a gluten-free option, ensure the Dijon mustard is gluten-free. You can also substitute flank steak with skirt steak or chicken breast for different flavor profiles.
• Marinating Options: For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the flank steak in the Dijon glaze for a few hours before poaching.

Mouthwatering Description

Imagine slicing into the poached flank steak, revealing its juicy pink interior, glistening with a vibrant Dijon mustard glaze. Each bite bursts with the rich, savory flavor of the beef, perfectly balanced by the bright, sweet, and slightly spicy nectarine salsa. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a culinary delight.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant colors of the dish by plating the steak and salsa on a rustic wooden board. Use natural light to highlight the glossy glaze and fresh salsa. Consider adding fresh herbs as a garnish for an extra pop of color.

Further Exploration

If you’re intrigued by poaching, explore more techniques in the Poaching Techniques Guide. For additional recipes that feature flank steak, check out the Flank Steak Recipe Collection.

Experimenting in the kitchen can lead to delightful discoveries. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or tips with fellow home cooks!

Happy cooking!