There are so many cuts of steak that it is understandable that many of you will not know how best to cook each of them. Flank steak is one of the cuts that often brings confusion and that is what this article will tell you about that cut, how to cook it, and how it compares to others.
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steaks can be tender and juicy. Its flavor is enhanced by marinating it for several hours before cooking. Some condiments for flank steak include salad dressing, soy sauce, or wine. These ingredients should be poured over the flank steak and sealed in a glass dish. The marinating period can last anywhere from one to four hours or up to 24 hours. Once it’s finished cooking, the steak should be rested and flipped over every now and then.
When cooking flank steak, you can either grill it or pan-sear it. Broiling it helps to create crisp edges. For medium-rare, broiling it for about 5 minutes per side will do the trick. Remember that you don’t want to overcook it, or you’ll end up with hockey-pucks instead of steaks! If you’re unsure of what kind of steak is best for your tastes, check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
Some people confuse bavetta with skirt steak and vice versa. But the two types of meat are similar in texture and appearance. While some resources refer to flank steak as Arrachera, another name for it is London Broil. However, the two can’t be the same. Top round is also sometimes sold as London Broil. Ask the meat counter employee to explain the difference. If they don’t know, you can substitute skirt steak for flank steak.
The cut for flank steak is important. The meat is softer and leaner than skirt steak. Flank steak is best cut against the grain, which will result in thin slices. Flank steak is also more tender when you cut it against the grain, so learn the distinction. It’s one of the most affordable cuts of beef, and is available in several cuts and varieties. You’ll find it versatile and affordable in most grocery stores including Tesco.
How to Cook Flank Steak
If you are in the mood for a steak meal but are not sure how to prepare it, here are some tips on how to cook flank steak. Generally, flank steak is a thick cut of beef and should be cooked slowly for six to eight hours to be tender and flavorful. If you’re cooking a smaller amount of flank steak, you can cook it on a stovetop in about half an hour.
Begin by fully thawing your flank steak. Then, sear it on both sides for about one to two minutes. Next, move it to indirect heat to finish cooking. Remember to turn it over halfway! To check its doneness, you can use a meat thermometer. Otherwise, you can trust your instincts. You’ll know when your steak is done when the meat is pink on all sides.
Remember that flank steak comes in several different cuts. Select a USDA Prime cut if possible for the best results. USDA Prime cuts are the highest quality and have the most marbling, which makes them very tender when cooked properly. Depending on your family’s tastes, you may need to prepare different cuts. Once you’ve decided on the type of steak, you can begin cooking. You’ll need a meat thermometer to gauge the internal temperature of your flank steak.
For a tender steak, marinating is important. Use a marinade that contains coconut aminos, lime juice, and minced garlic. After a day or two, it’s time to cook it on a grill. Make sure to turn it over halfway. If the steak is marinated in the refrigerator, it won’t be as tender. Once marinated, put it on the grill to cook for approximately two minutes per side. When the steak is ready, check the grill marks and enjoy.
Flank Steak Compared to Other Steak Cuts
You may wonder how to cook a flank steak. As one of the leanest cuts of beef, the flank requires very little preparation. Here are some tips for preparing it. Cook it to medium rare or medium. The steak should be a cherry red color and have little to no marbling of fat. If it is soft, it’s probably not fresh. Don’t cook it beyond medium rare – it should be at room temperature. You can marinate the steak and serve it with a sauce or marinade for an extra-special treat.
While both flank and skirt steaks are excellent for grilling, they have their differences. While flank steak is easier to chew, skirt steak is less expensive. While both are equally delicious, they are different in structure and area. While they are similar in flavor and structure, they are sometimes mistaken for one another. This is because flank is often a unique cut. Its tender beef can be grilled, smoked, or grilled, and it is best served thinly cut.
The main difference between round and flank steak is the method of cooking. Flank steak is best suited for braising, while round steak requires more cooking time. It is also fat-free. Compared to other steak cuts, it is more expensive than its counterpart. But it will be worth the extra money if you enjoy a flavorful steak. So if you’re considering cooking a flank steak, make sure you know how to prepare it properly.