Fraldinha **gf Recipe
Fraldinha, beef tender, is tender and robust in flavor - one of the most distinctive cuts of beef enjoyed in Southern Brazil. Pairs perfectly with our homemade chimichurri sauce.
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Ingredients
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Fraldinha (flank steak) and seasoning
Chimichurri sauce (homemade, makes about 1 cup)
Serving & optional garnish
Method
Preparation and seasoning
Bring meat to room temperature
Remove the fraldinha from the refrigerator 30–45 minutes before cooking so it comes closer to room temperature. Pat the steak dry on all sides with paper towels.
Evenly sprinkle 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt, 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper and 1 teaspoon garlic powder over both sides of the steak. Press the seasoning gently into the meat with your hands.
Make chimichurri sauce
Finely chop the parsley and oregano (or measure dried oregano). Mince the garlic cloves finely.
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped oregano, 3 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice (if using).
Stir thoroughly until emulsified. Taste and adjust salt, acidity or oil as desired. Let the chimichurri sit at room temperature while you cook the steak so flavors meld (at least 15 minutes).
Cooking the fraldinha
Preheat a heavy cast-iron skillet or grill to high heat. If using a skillet, add a tablespoon of high smoke-point oil (canola or light olive) and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Flip the steak and sear the other side 3–4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature about 130–135°F / 54–57°C). For medium, cook 5–6 minutes per side. Because fraldinha is a thin, flat cut, these times refer to a 1–1.2 kg piece; adjust ±1–2 minutes depending on thickness.
If the steak is thicker in places and browning too quickly, reduce heat and finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 4–8 minutes until desired doneness is reached. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Transfer the cooked fraldinha to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Rest for 8–10 minutes to let juices redistribute.
Slicing and serving
Slice the fraldinha thinly across the grain at a slight diagonal into 1/4-inch (6 mm) slices. Cutting across the grain shortens muscle fibers and maximizes tenderness.
Arrange slices on a platter. Spoon chimichurri over the steak or serve on the side. Garnish with parsley leaves and lemon or lime wedges. Serve immediately.