Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMaïs ArepasSkirt Steak Recipe

Skirt Steak Recipe

Inspired by Maïs Arepas
Time1h
Serves4

Make Skirt Steak Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Steak & Marinade

Method

Steak & Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare marinade

    In a medium bowl combine olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until blended.

  2. 2

    Marinate steak

    Place the skirt steak in a shallow dish or large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, turning to coat both sides. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. (If short on time, 30 minutes still imparts good flavor; avoid exceeding 6 hours for skirt steak.)

  3. 3

    Bring to room temperature

    Remove the steak from the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking so it comes closer to room temperature. Reserve marinade for basting if desired, but do not reuse marinade raw after it has contacted raw meat unless you boil it for at least 3 minutes.

Cooking & Finish

  1. 4

    Preheat and season

    Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt evenly over both sides of the steak and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Preheat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until very hot (2–4 minutes). If grilling, preheat grill to high (450–550°F / 230–290°C).

  2. 5

    Sear the steak

    Add a thin film of oil to the hot pan (if using a grill, oil the grates). Place the skirt steak in the pan across the grain. Sear without moving for 2–3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side 2 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp ~125–130°F / 52–54°C). For medium, cook 3 minutes per side (130–140°F).

  3. 6

    Finish with butter and rest

    If using a pan, reduce heat to medium-low, add the butter to the pan and spoon melted butter over the steak for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 8–10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

  4. 7

    Slice and serve

    Trim any excess fat if desired. Slice the skirt steak thinly against the grain into 1/4-inch slices. Arrange on a platter, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions if using, and serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the meat.

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