Imagine a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary steak into an extraordinary Mediterranean masterpiece! This Steak with Madeira, Basil, and Olives is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to sun-drenched coastal landscapes. With its perfect balance of rich Madeira wine, briny olives, and fragrant fresh basil, this dish promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 flank steaks
- 1/2 cup Madeira wine
- 1/4 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Remove the flank steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add a thin layer of olive oil and heat until it's shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side to develop a rich, dark crust.
- Flip the steaks and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on desired doneness.
- Remove steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board, tented with aluminum foil, for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same pan, deglaze with Madeira wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce the Madeira by half, creating a quick pan sauce. Add chopped black olives and let them warm through.
- Slice the steaks against the grain into thin strips.
- Plate the sliced steak, drizzle with the Madeira and olive sauce, and garnish generously with fresh chopped basil.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your steaks sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Removing moisture helps create that beautiful, crispy exterior.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Use a cast-iron skillet for the best crust and flavor development.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
- Rest Your Meat: Letting steaks rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique makes each bite more tender and easier to chew.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use freshly chopped basil for the most vibrant flavor.
- Madeira Reduction Trick: Deglazing the pan captures all those delicious browned bits for an incredible sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 100mg
