Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Rub

Make the spice rub

1. In a baking dish large enough to fit the steak, stir together all the ingredients.
2. Add the steak to the spice rub, turning to coat the meat thoroughly with the rub and pressing with your fingers to help the rub adhere to the meat. If you have the time, cover and toss the steak in the fridge for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Grill the steak

1. When you’re ready to cook the steak, let it rest at room temperature while the grill is heating. Build a hot fire in a charcoal grill or preheat a gas grill to high. Using a grill brush, scrape the heated grill rack clean. Lightly coat a paper towel with oil and, holding it with long tongs, carefully rub the oiled towel over the grill rack.
2. Place the flank steak directly over the flame or heating element grill and let it cook, undisturbed, for about 3 minutes. Rotate the steak 90° and let it cook, undisturbed, for another 3 minutes. Flip the steak and repeat on the other side so it cooks another 3 minutes undisturbed, is rotated 90°, and then cooks 3 more minutes. If you like your steak medium-rare, it should be done at this point [an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the steak should read 130°F (54°C)]. If you like your steak medium or well done, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill for a few more minutes to cook to the desired doneness.
3. Move the steak to a cutting board, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carve it against the grain into slices about 1/2 inch thick, pile them onto a platter, and serve immediately.