What Is Matambre?
Over the years, I’ve loved sharing with you recipes from all over the world. This Argentinian stuffed flank steak, called matambre, is one of the most popular recipes I’ve shared with you. It such a simple dish, yet elegant, impressive and very little effort required. Matambre, also known as saudero in some Latin American countries, is the name of a dish consisting of a thin cut of beef, like flank steak. When translated literally from Spanish, the word “matambre” is a combination of two words: matar and hambre. Matar means “to kill”, and hambre means “hunger”. Therefore, “matambre” translated literally means hunger killer. It is also referred to as Matambre Arrolado or Matambre Relleno. It is normally stuffed or filled and it comes from Argentina or Uruguay. The ingredients for the stuffing can vary from province to province, but mostly commonly include whole carrots, hard boiled, eggs and lots of black pepper. The thin cut of beef is a cut from the side of the cow, between the skin and the ribs, usually known as “fly shaker” or “elephant ear”. Because this is usually hard to find in stores here, flank steak is a great and affordable substitute.
Flank steak – you’ll need about a 2 pound piece of flank steak. I usually buy mine at Costco, they come 2 in a package, use one and freeze the other for later. Super economical. Olive oil – You’ll need some olive oil for the quasi chimichurri sauce. Garlic – lots of garlic as usual. Herbs – such as fresh cilantro and parsley. Salt & pepper – use as much or as little as you like. Red pepper flakes – to kick things up a notch, use more or less as you like. Hard boiled eggs – cut into quarters. Bell peppers – I used half a green and half a red bell pepper for color. You could also add some thin strips of carrots if you like.
Although this matambre is fancy enough for a special occasion, it’s really easy to make. I grilled my matambre but you can also roast it in the oven. I have provided instructions for both. The first step is to prepare the flank steak. Using a sharp knife slice it and open it up like a book (see instructions below for how to butterfly a flank steak). If you want to make the meat thinner, you can pound it with a mallet to flatten it out and even out the thickness. I made up my my own concoction with some olive oil, tons of garlic, cilantro, parsley, black pepper, salt and a bit of red pepper flakes. It’s sort of like a chimichurri sauce, but not really. Now begins the fun part. Spread the chimichurri mixture over the flank steak, and brush it evenly over the entire surface of the steak. Arrange the quartered eggs in 3 rows across the flank steak at different intervals. Repeat with the sliced peppers. Carefully roll the meat up over the filling, I did it from left to right, across the grain, jelly roll style. Tie with butcher’s twine to hold it together. Season the outside of the roll generously with salt and pepper. Prepare your grill for cooking over medium direct heat. The temperature on your grill should read around 400°F (204°C). Place the roll on the grill and grill on both sides for about 4 or 5 minutes per side, about 20 minutes in total. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of the roll should read 130°F(54°C). Let the roll rest for 15 minutes before slicing into it.
What Is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the cow’s lower chest or abdominal muscle. I love using it, because it’s usually inexpensive, but a super flavorful and versatile cut of beef. It’s usually sold about a foot long and one inch in thickness. This cut is also known as jiffy steak or London broil.
How To Butterfly A Flank Steak
A flank steak is so versatile and once you butterfly it, it opens up to all kinds of possibilities when it comes to different fillings.
How To Roast Matambre In the Oven
Storage
Transfer leftover matambre to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. I wouldn’t keep it longer because of the hard boiled eggs.
Other Delicious Steak Recipes To Try
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak Blue Cheese and Steak Crostini Creamy Polenta with Grilled Steak and Roasted Tomatoes Crock Pot Roast Beef Brisket Gyros Steak Fry Bread Tacos
Recipe originally shared September 2015.
