Flank steak, delicious isn’t it? But WHAT is it exactly? What part does it come from?
Flank steak is a relatively long and flat cut from the abdominal muscles of the cow, used in a variety of dishes including London broil, and can be grilled, pan-fried, broiled, or braised for increased tenderness. Because it comes from a well-exercised muscle, it’s best sliced against the grain.
In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about flank steak, including what it is, how to cook it, and why it’s so great for your health.
What’s the Deal with Flank Steak?
What is Flank Steak?
So what’s the deal with flank steak? It’s a cut of beef from the abdominal muscles of the animal, right behind its chest. It’s sometimes called London broil or skirt steak, but that’s actually a different cut. It’s got a beefy flavor and can be a bit chewier than other steaks, but if cooked right, it’s still tender and delicious.
Skirt Steak vs Flank Steak
Skirt steak and flank steak are often confused, but they’re not the same. Skirt steak is from the diaphragm muscles of the animal, so it’s a bit tougher and can get chewy quickly if not cooked properly. But both cuts can be cooked with the same methods – marinade and high-heat, quick cooking. Plus, flank steak is usually one of the least expensive cuts to buy, so it’s a great way to save money.
Cooking with Flank Steak
So what can you do with flank steak? Well, you can do pretty much anything! Grill it, pan-fry it, broil it, you name it. Plus, you can use leftovers for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more. There’s no limit to what you can do with this cut of beef. So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different recipes.
How to Cook Flank Steak Like a Pro
No Trimming Needed
Forget about trimming the fat off your flank steak – there’s hardly any to begin with! All you need to do is season it with salt and pepper (or your favorite meat rub) and you’re good to go.
Tenderize It
If you want to get the best flavor out of your steak, you’ll need to tenderize it. Here are a few ways to do it:
- Use a meat tenderizing mallet
- Marinate it in an acidic marinade
- Cook it low and slow
Uses for Flank Steak
Flank steak is great for:
- Fajitas
- Stir-fries
- Any dish that calls for beef strips
Serving Tips
Once you’ve cooked your steak, make sure to let it rest for at least five minutes before serving. Then, slice it thinly against the grain at a 45-degree angle for the best texture. If you slice with the grain, you’ll end up with a chewy steak. Yuck!
What Does Flank Steak Taste Like?
A Rich, Beefy Flavor
Flank steak is all about that beefy flavor, so you can expect it to be the star of the show in any dish. But, since this cut loves a good marinade, you can also expect to taste some other delicious flavors too. Think citrus, pineapple, orange juice, soy sauce, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, wine, and other acidic or enzyme-rich ingredients.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
If you want to get the most out of your flank steak, marinating it is the way to go. Not only does it help tenderize the meat, but it also adds a whole new level of flavor. So, if you want to impress your dinner guests, whip up a classic steak marinade and let that flank steak soak up all the deliciousness.
The Perfect Pairing
Once you’ve got your marinade sorted, it’s time to think about what to serve with your steak. Here are some of our favorite pairings:
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Fresh greens
- Baked beans
- Crispy fries
- Warm dinner rolls
Which Cut of Steak is Best for Grilling?
Flank Steak
If you’re looking for a steak that’s got a bit of a bite, then you’ll want to go with the flank steak. It’s cut from the diaphragm region and has a prominent grain that gives it a unique flavor. It’s great for grilling, tacos, fajitas, and stir-fries, but you’ll want to slice it against the grain to make sure it’s nice and tender.
Skirt Steak
If you’re looking for a steak that packs a bit more flavor, then you’ll want to go with the skirt steak. It’s cut from the same area as the flank steak, but it has more fat, which gives it a richer flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for grilling, tacos, fajitas, and stir-fries. Just make sure to slice it against the grain to keep it nice and tender.
The Verdict
So, which cut of steak is best for grilling? Well, it really depends on what kind of flavor you’re looking for. If you want something that’s got a bit of a bite, then go with the flank steak. But if you want something that’s got a bit more flavor, then the skirt steak is the way to go. Either way, make sure to slice it against the grain to keep it nice and tender.
Cooking Flank Steak: A Beginner’s Guide
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s lean, flavorful, and relatively inexpensive, making it a great choice for budget-conscious cooks.
Why Should I Cook Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s great for tacos, fajitas, stir-fries, rice and grain bowls, or simply marinated and grilled alongside seasonal vegetables. Plus, it’s lean and nutritious, so you can feel good about serving it to your family.
How Do I Cook Flank Steak?
Cooking flank steak is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular methods:
- Grilling: This is a great way to get that classic char-grilled flavor. Brush the steak with oil and season with your favorite herbs and spices. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees.
- Broiling: Preheat the oven and move the rack as close to the broiler as possible. Brush the steak with oil and season with salt, garlic, rosemary, and black pepper. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and broil for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees.
What Recipes Can I Make With Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a great choice for a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious recipes to get you started:
- Soy and Pineapple Flank Steak: Marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and garlic for a sweet and savory dish.
- Steak Fajita Bowls: Slice the steak into thin strips and cook with bell peppers and onions. Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a delicious meal.
- Honey Beef Stir-Fry: Marinate the steak in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic. Then, stir-fry with your favorite vegetables for a quick and easy dinner.
Where Does Flank Steak Come From?
Grocery Stores
If you’re looking to get your hands on some delicious flank steak, you’re in luck! You can find it in most grocery stores with a well-stocked refrigerated meat section. Just make sure to call ahead to double-check that they have it in stock.
When you’re picking out your steak, make sure it’s uniform in thickness so you don’t end up with overcooked ends. Flank steak usually comes in 1-4 pound packages, so you can get as much or as little as you need.
Butcher Counters
If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, you can always head to your local butcher counter. They’ll be able to help you pick out the perfect cut of steak for your needs.
Freezing
If you want to stock up on flank steak, you can always buy it in bulk and freeze it for up to a year. That way, you’ll always have some delicious steak on hand when you need it!
Cooking Tips
When it comes to cooking flank steak, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Marinate it for at least an hour before cooking.
- Cook it quickly over high heat.
- Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Storing Your Flank Steak
When it comes to storing your flank steak, you have a few options. Whether you’re looking to keep it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for a few months, here’s what you need to know:
Refrigerator Storage
- Wrap your uncooked flank steak in butcher paper or modified atmosphere packaging (the stuff supermarkets use) and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
- Cooked flank steak will last in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezer Storage
- If you want to freeze your flank steak, you can store it in its original packaging for up to 12 months.
- Vacuum-sealing your steak before freezing it will help it last longer and prevent freezer burn.
How to Cook the Perfect Flank Steak
The Basics
Cooking a delicious flank steak doesn’t have to be a mystery! Here’s the lowdown on how to get it just right:
- Cooking Temperature: Med-High
- Average Cooking Time: Med-High
- Finishing Temperature: Sous Vide or Slow Cooker
A Word of Warning
No matter how much you think you know, it’s always a good idea to keep a meat thermometer handy. That way, you can check the internal temperature regularly and make sure you don’t overcook (or undercook) your delicious flank steak.
The Bottom Line
Cooking a perfect flank steak doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right temperature, time, and finishing method, you can have a delicious steak that’s sure to impress. Just don’t forget to keep your thermometer handy!
Everything You Need to Know About Flank Steak
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a delicious cut of beef that’s great for grilling, roasting, broiling, or searing. It’s a bit more tender than skirt steak, but both have a yummy beefy flavor.
What Can I Make with Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a great all-purpose beef cut, so you can make all sorts of recipes with it! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Grilled flank steak tacos
- Flank steak fajitas
- Flank steak stir fry
- Flank steak salad
- Flank steak sandwiches
Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?
No worries! If you have any more questions about flank steak, just check out our complete FAQ for all the answers you need.
What Other Names Do People Call Flank Steak?
Common Names
When it comes to flank steak, it’s got a few aliases. You might know it as London Broil, but don’t be fooled – some stores might try to pass off top round as London Broil, so it’s best to double check with the butcher before you buy.
Other names you might come across are Flank Steak Fillet and Jiffy Steak. If you’re in an ethnic market or out of the country, you might find it labeled as Bavette steak in French or Arrachera in Spanish.
Why Flank Steak is So Popular
Flank steak is popular with cooks and chefs around the world for its flavor and texture, which is why it’s available in so many places. Here are some of the reasons why it’s so beloved:
- Its lean, yet tender texture
- Its rich, beefy flavor
- Its versatility – you can grill, pan-fry, or even bake it
- Its affordability – it’s usually cheaper than other cuts of steak
Differences
Flank Steak Vs Bavette
Flank steak and bavette steak are two cuts of beef that are often confused for one another. The main difference between the two is where they come from. Flank steak is cut from the flank primal, which is located near the belly, while bavette steak is cut from the bottom sirloin, near the flank steak. Flank steak is usually cut whole, while bavette steak is cut into smaller portions. Flank steak is known for its robust flavor, while bavette steak is known for its tenderness. Both are great for grilling, but bavette steak is especially good for fajitas. So if you’re looking for a juicy steak with a robust flavor, go for the flank steak. But if you want something a bit more tender, go for the bavette steak.
Flank Steak Vs Skirt Steak
Skirt steak and flank steak are two of the most popular cuts of beef. Both are flavorful and relatively inexpensive, but they have some key differences. Skirt steak is a thin, long cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm of the cow. It’s known for its intense beefy flavor and is best cooked quickly over high heat. Flank steak, on the other hand, is a flat, wide cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It has a slightly tougher texture than skirt steak and is best cooked over medium-high heat.
When it comes to flavor, skirt steak is the clear winner. Its intense beefy flavor makes it a great choice for tacos, fajitas, and stir-fries. Flank steak, on the other hand, is slightly tougher and has a more subtle flavor. It’s best served with marinades and sauces to bring out its flavor, making it a great choice for steak salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries. So, if you’re looking for a flavorful cut of beef, go for skirt steak. But if you’re looking for something a bit more subtle, then flank steak is the way to go.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Flank steak is all about that rich, beefy flavor. Serve it up with some of your favorite sides and you’ve got yourself a winning dinner.
Don’t be afraid to give this cut of steak a try – it’s sure to be a HIT! Just make sure you have your steak thermometer handy and don’t overcook it – you don’t want to be “flanked” by a tough steak!
