When buying a skirt steak, look for a fresh, bright-red color with a fine texture and moist appearance. A good skirt steak will have a decent amount of marbling, which enhances its flavor when grilled. There are two types of skirt steaks:

1. Inside Skirt Steak: This is thicker and has a more intense beef flavor. It’s also the preferred choice for many BBQ enthusiasts.
2. Outside Skirt Steak: Typically thinner and wider, it’s also flavorful but might require a touch more care when grilling to avoid overcooking.

Whichever you choose, ensure it’s fresh and ideally sourced from a trusted butcher or meat supplier.

The natural robust flavor of skirt steak pairs well with bold marinades. Since it’s a tougher cut of meat, marinating not only adds flavor but tenderizes the steak.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes or minced cilantro for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk well.
2. Lay the steak in a large dish, pour the marinade over, ensuring both sides are well covered.
3. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour. For optimal flavor, marinate for 4-8 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Before grilling, let the steak come to room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Having prepared the steak, it’s time to fire up the BBQ!

Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill on high for about 10 minutes. A high heat ensures the steak sears quickly, sealing in juices and flavors.

Grilling: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place the steak on the grill. For a medium-rare finish, grill each side for 2-4 minutes. It’s crucial not to overcook skirt steak as it can become tough.

Resting: Once done, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak.

The grain in skirt steak is evident. When slicing, ensure you cut against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.

Serve with grilled vegetables, salsa, or even as the star ingredient in fajitas or tacos. The rich flavors of BBQ skirt steak offer versatility in meal choices.