Ginger-Lime Flank Steak
Last week, I was shopping at Sur La Table, and when I went to check out, I handed the salesperson my "Culinary Professionals" discount card (did you know food bloggers count as culinary professionals in Sur La Table's discount program? How cool is that?!). I had forgotten to fill in the back of the card with my name and related blog information, so the salesperson was kind enough to offer to write it in for me. Thinking he'd just continue processing my transaction once he filled in my card, I quietly waited while he finished writing. But then he asked: "So, what's your food blog about?" *crickets* I bumbled and fumbled my way through the most awkward and clumsy explanation of my food blog I have ever given someone. I skipped feeling embarrassed altogether and went straight to being mortified. But I held it together and didn't let it show. I paid for my things, thanked the salesperson and left, trying to will away the heat that was quickly rising to my cheeks about to out my state of utter embarrassment. I felt like such an idiot.
I started asking myself why I was so guarded about talking about my blog to someone who was genuinely curious to know about it. I love this blog. I love everything about blogging, even if my writing and photography still need (a lot of) improvement, and there are times where I feel like I've lost my blogging mojo. I love how I've met so many wonderful new friends through my blog and on Twitter. I'm having the most fun with my life because of my blog.
So what gives? The truth is, I am incredibly shy about promoting my blog. I'm always worried I'll come across as self-serving and pretentious. I think know I live inside my head too much. I came to the conclusion that my hesitancy stems from the fact that I've never given any thought to what I would tell people when they asked what my blog is about. "Winging it" obviously doesn't work, so I finally put it down on paper and made a list.
Flavia's Flavors is about...
nourishing my passions for cooking, baking, writing and photography.
welcoming my readers into my "home" here on the Internet.
celebrating my Italian and American upbringings and the food I love from both cultures.
cooking food that is uncomplicated, accessible, comforting and familiar.
using fresh ingredients and cooking all my recipes from scratch.
teaching people a new recipe, tip, or skill.
sharing, community and paying it forward.
learning, learning and learning some more.
I'm glad I wrote this list; it perfectly describes my cooking and blogging philosophies. I'm always amazed at how clearer things become when you write them down. I need to do it more often. It feels good. And I finally know what to tell people when they ask me about my blog.
Ginger-Lime Flank Steak
Adapted from Everyday FoodThis flank steak recipe is a perfect example of the kind of uncomplicated and accessible recipes I love to cook. It's an economical cut of beef that is on the tough side, so it benefits from marinating before cooking it. The perky lime juice, bright ginger and fragrant soy sauce give it wonderful flavor. It's a perfect addition to any Summer menu.
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
2 T. soy sauce
2 scallions, thinly sliced
2 T. peeled and minced fresh ginger
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 1/2 lb. flank steak
Vegetable Oil or non-stick cooking spray for grill
Salt & pepper to tasteIn a resealable plastic bag, combine the lime juice, soy sauce, scallions, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add the flank steak and seal the bag. Place the bag in a baking dish or tray with high sides. Rub the steak around in the marinade to coat it evenly. Place the steak in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Remove the steak from the refrigerator and take it out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. Discard remaining marinade.
Heat the grill to high and lightly oil the grates. Season the steak with some salt and pepper and place on the grill. Cover the grill and let the steak cook about 3-4 minutes per side, turning only once. Remove the steak to a clean platter and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve.
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I'm with you! I hate talking about my blog, especially with family members or strangers who aren't internet-savvy. Good idea to make a list :)
I love to cook marinated flank steak, it's one of our favorites. But this recipe with the lime juice sounds so good - I'm going to try it!
Flavia, you are amazing! Now that you have put all of your thoughts in writing, go for it! Tell everyone about your wonderful blog. Be proud, you have accomplished sooo much!
I will be trying the above recipe for sure!! :)
Sounds just wonderful and right up my alley. . . simple and flavorful. The mix of ginger and lime just makes me think summer. Saving this!
This sounds very delicious! My husband and I have purchased the pre-marinated flank steak from Central Market on several occasions, and we both really like it. Your marinade sounds wonderful. I am bookmarking it, so that I can make it soon. Can't wait to try it!