What Is Flank Steak?

What Is Flank Steak

What Is Flank Steak? In fact, there are many people who want a proper answer to this question? Flank steak is a steak cut from the beef flank, which is located on the underside of the cow. This powerful cut is perfect for grilling or broiling and is known for its intense flavor. Flank steak is a very affordable cut of meat and can be cooked in a variety of ways. 

In this blog post, we answer the question “what is flank steak?”, as well as mention everything you need to know about this type of beef cut. So, keep reading to learn and know about the flank steak, and some tips for cooking this steak as well. 

What Is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a beef cut that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a relatively thin cut and is best suited for quick cooking methods like grilling or pan-frying. The meat is flavorful and tender, with a slightly chewy texture.

Flank steak is a good choice for busy weeknight dinners because it’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. It’s also affordable, so you can feed your whole family without breaking the bank. Serve flank steak with some grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes, and you’ve got yourself a delicious and satisfying meal.

The History Of Flank Steak

After knowing “what is flank steak”, then the question is raised about the history of this steak. Flank steak has been around for centuries and was originally used as a way to tenderize tough cuts of meat. The steak gets its name from the fact that it comes from the flank or side of the cow. In the United States, flank steak became popular in the early 20th century when German and Austrian immigrants introduced it to the country.

Flank steak remained a fairly obscure cut of meat until the 1950s when it started to gain popularity in American cookbooks. By the 1970s, flank steak was a staple in many American households. Today, it’s still a popular choice for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

How To Cook The Flank Steak: A Step By Step Guide

Flank steak is best cooked using quick-cooking methods like grilling or pan-frying. The meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare or 160 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.

Here, after understanding “what is flank steak”, it is vital for you to know how to cook the flank steak, and step-by-step instruction is mentioned below:

Step 1: Preheat your grill, or heat a heavy skillet on the stove over medium-high heat.

The reasons why people should preheat the grill or the stove with a medium-high temperature? In fact, the high temperature is to ensure that the steak will be seared on the outside.

Step 2: Season your steak with salt and pepper.

Be sure to generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. This will help to add flavor and seasoning.

Step 3: Place your steak on the grill, or in the skillet.

If using a grill, be sure to place the steak directly over the heat source. If using a skillet, place the steak in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until browned.

Step 4: Allow your steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

This is an important step, as it allows the steak to finish cooking evenly and gives you a chance to prepare the rest of your meal.

Step 5: Slice your steak against the grain into thin strips.

Once you have allowed the steak to rest, it’s time to slice it against the grain into thin strips. This will help to ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew.

Now that you know how to cook a flank steak, why not try it for yourself? Whether you’re grilling or pan-frying, this cut of meat is sure to please. And, with its affordable price tag, you can feed your whole family without breaking the bank. So, go ahead and give the flank steak a try, you won’t be disappointed!

Where Does The Flank Steak Come From The Cow?

The flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s located on the side of the cow, between the ribs and the hip. The flank is a relatively thin cut of meat, which is why it’s best suited for quick cooking methods like grilling or pan-frying.

What Do Flank Steaks Taste Like?

After knowing “what is flank steak”, also you want to know about the taste of this type of steak. Flank steak is a flavorful and tender cut of meat with a slightly chewy texture. In particular, flank steak is known for its beefy flavor. The steak also has a fair amount of fat, which helps to keep it moist and juicy.

What Are Some Of The Other Methods To Cook The Flank Steak? 

There are several methods that can be used to cook flank steak. Here are a few of our favorites:

Smoking:

Actually, this is a common way for many people to cook flank steak. When smoking flank steak, it’s important to use light smoke wood like cherry or apple. This will help to add flavor without overpowering the steak.

To smoke your steak, simply preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and season your steak with salt and pepper. Place the steak on the grill and smoke for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the steak reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grilling:

Grilling is one of the most common ways to cook flank steak. To grill your steak, preheat your grill to high heat and season your steak with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Reduce the heat to medium and continue grilling for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pan-Frying:

Pan-frying is a great way to cook flank steak if you’re short on time. To pan-fry your steak, heat a tablespoon of oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add your steak to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Roasting:

Roasting is another great way to cook flank steak. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and season your steak with salt and pepper. Place the steak on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

You’ve known a little bit about what is flank steak, it’s important to know and learn some approaches to cooking this type of steak. Read, remember or note to the next try.

What About The Nutritional Value Of The Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a lean cut of meat, which means that it’s low in fat and calories. A 3-ounce serving of flank steak contains approximately:

Calories: Flank steak contains about 140 calories per 3-ounce serving.

Fat: Flank steak contains about 7 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving.

Protein: Flank steak contains about 22 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving.

Carbohydrates: Flank steak contains about 0 grams of carbohydrates per 3-ounce serving.

Fiber: Flank steak contains about 0 grams of fiber per 3-ounce serving.

Sugar: Flank steak contains about 0 grams of sugar per 3-ounce serving.

Sodium: Flank steak contains about 70 milligrams of sodium per 3-ounce serving.

Vitamins: Flank steak is a good source of vitamins B6 and B12.

Minerals: Flank steak is a good source of phosphorus, zinc, and iron.

As you can see, flank steak is a lean, protein-rich food that’s low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. This makes it a great choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain weight. Additionally, flank steak is a good source of iron, zinc, and phosphorus.

What Are Some Specific Features Of The Flank Steak?

To understand fully “what is flank steak”, people also know about some features of this type of steak:

Weight: Flank steak typically weighs in at around 1-1.5 pounds.

Dimensions: Flank steak is a long, thin cut of meat that typically measures between 6 and 8 inches wide and 12 to 16 inches long.

Texture: Flank steak is a relatively tough cut of meat, but it’s also quite flavorful. It’s best cooked by grilling, pan-frying, or roasting.

Flavor: Flank steak is beefy and full-flavored, making it a great choice for those who want a hearty meal.

Nutrition: Flank steak is a lean, low-fat cut of meat that’s high in protein and vitamins B6 and B12. It’s also a good source of phosphorus, zinc, and iron.

Price: Flank steak is a relatively affordable cut of meat.

Hence, flank steak is a unique and versatile cut of meat that’s perfect for those who want a healthy, hearty, and beefy meal. 

What Are Some Of The Useful Tips For Cooking The Flank Steak?

There are a few key things to keep in mind when cooking flank steak: 

• Don’t overcook: flank steak is best cooked to medium-rare or medium, as this will ensure that it’s both tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
• Remember season before cooking: One of the most important tips for cooking flank steak is to season it generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This will help the flavors of the meat to come through.
• Pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning it: This will help the seasonings to stick to the meat.
• Cook the steak over high heat: This will help to create a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking: This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that it’s juicy and tender.

So, you’ve read about some tips for cooking flank steak, which is partly contributing to the understanding of what is flank steak. These are some of the key things to keep in mind when cooking flank steak. With these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and juicy flank steak every time. 

What Are Some Of The Mistakes People Make When Cooking The Flank Steak?

There are a few common mistakes that people make when cooking flank steak: 

• Not seasoning the steak enough: Without seasonings, the flavor of the flank steak will be bland.
• Overcooking the steak: This will make the meat tough and dry.
• Cooking the steak over low heat: If the heat is too low, it will take a long time for the steak to cook through, and it may end up being overcooked.
• Not letting the steak rest: This will cause the juices to run out of the meat, making it dry.

So, these are some of the mistakes that people often make when cooking flank steak. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be able to create a delicious and juicy meal every time.

What Are Some Of The Side Dishes To Serve With Flank Steak?

There are a few different side dishes that go well with flank steak. Here are some of the most popular options: 

Roasted or mashed potatoes: These starchy sides help to balance out the rich flavor of the steak.

Steamed vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans are all classic sides that pair well with flank steak.

Salad: A simple green salad is a light and refreshing side that goes well with almost any meal.

Baked beans: For a heartier option, try serving baked beans as a side dish. This classic dish pairs well with grilled meats.

So, there are a few different side dishes that you can serve with flank steak. Well, this helps you to have an extensive view about “what is flank steak”.

What Are Some Of The Delicious Recipes For Cooking The Flank Steak?

Now that you know all about flank steak, it’s time to start cooking! Here are a few delicious recipes that will help you to make the most of this cut of meat: 

Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: This recipe is easy to follow and results in a flavorful and juicy flank steak.

Pan-Fried Flank Steak with Mushroom Gravy: This hearty recipe is perfect for a winter meal. It’s sure to satisfy your hunger.

Roasted Flank Steak with Rosemary: This simple recipe results in a delicious and succulent flank steak.

What Are Some Things People Should Consider When Buying The Flank Steak?

Well, to gain a full answer to the question “what is flank steak”, people have to know some things that are necessary to consider before buying flank steak:

The cut of meat: Make sure to purchase a flank steak that is thick and has a good amount of marbling.

The color: The steak should be deep red color, indicating that it is fresh.

The size: Flank steaks can vary in size, so make sure to choose one that is appropriate for your needs.

The price: Flank steaks are typically affordable, so you shouldn’t have to break the bank to get a good one.

The quality: Make sure to inspect the flank steak before purchasing it to make sure that it is of good quality.

These are some things to keep in mind when purchasing flank steak. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to select the perfect steak for your needs.

What About The Cooking Temperature For The Flank Steak?

If you want to achieve the perfect cooking temperature for your flank steak, it is recommended that you use a meat thermometer. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be about 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer your steak to be more well-done, you can cook it to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, if you do not have a meat thermometer, there are a few guidelines that you can follow to estimate the cooking temperature. For rare steak, cook it for about three minutes per side. For medium-rare, cook it for four to five minutes per side. And for a well-done steak, cook it for six to eight minutes per side.

Alright, perhaps cooking temperature is one of the most crucial elements to answer the question “what is flank steak”. So, you should be careful about the temperature when cooking this steak to get a perfect meal.

How Much Time Does It Take To Cook A Flank Steak?

The amount of time it takes to cook a flank steak will depend on the cooking temperature that you are aiming for. If you want a rare steak, it will take about three minutes per side. For a medium-rare steak, cook it for four to five minutes per side. And for well-done, cook the steak for six to eight minutes per side.

Moreover, it is important to remember that the steak should be allowed to rest for about five minutes after it has been cooked. This will help to ensure that the juices stay in the meat, rather than running out when you cut into it.

FAQs About What Is Flank Steak

How Does The Flank Steak Compare To Other Cuts Of Meat? 

The flank steak is a leaner cut of meat than some of the other popular cuts, such as the ribeye or New York strip. However, it’s still a relatively tender cut of meat, thanks to the marbling of fat throughout. Additionally, flank steak is a bit tougher than some of the other cuts, but this can be easily remedied by slicing it against the grain.

In terms of flavor, flank steak is typically described as being beefy and full-flavored. It’s also a bit more challenging to cook than some of the other cuts, but this simply adds to the challenge and the fun.

So, flank steak is a delicious, lean, and protein-rich cut of meat that’s perfect for those who are looking for a healthy option. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for steak and see for yourself why so many people love it. 

Where Can I Get Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a fairly common cut of meat, so you should be able to find it at most grocery stores. However, if you have difficulty finding it, you can also purchase it from specialty butcher shops or online retailers.

In fact, there are a number of different types of flank steak available for purchase. So, if you have a specific flavor or cooking method in mind, make sure to research the different options before making your purchase.

What Are The Best Ways To Store Flank Steak?

If you are not going to cook the flank steak immediately after purchasing it, there are a few things that you can do to help extend its shelf life. The best way to store flank steak is by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the fridge. You can also freeze the steak for later use. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

However, if you have already cooked the flank steak, the best way to store it is by wrapping it in aluminum foil and placing it in the fridge.

What Are Some Other Names Of Flank Steak?

Flank steak is also known by a few other names, such as London broil, fajita meat, and stir-fry beef.

Is Flank Steak A Healthy Meat Cut?

Yes, absolutely. The flank steak is a very healthy meat cut. It is low in fat and calories, and it is also a good source of protein. So, if you are looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional beef cuts, flank steak is definitely a good option.

Flank Steak Vs Skirt Steak: The Comparison 

The flank steak and the skirt steak are two very different cuts of meat. The flank steak is a long, thin cut that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. The skirt steak, on the other hand, is a shorter, thicker cut that comes from the diaphragm muscles.

The main difference between these two cuts is flavor. The flank steak has a more beefy flavor, while the skirt steak has a slightly more porky flavor. Additionally, the flank steak is leaner than the skirt steak, and it is also less expensive. So, if you are looking for a healthier and more affordable alternative to traditional beef cuts, the flank steak is definitely a good option.

How Do I Prepare The Flank Steak Before Cooking?

To cook a delicious meal from flank steak. First, you must know what is flank steak. And then, it’s vital for you to know to prepare the slank steak properly. The best way to prepare flank steak is by marinating it for at least an hour before cooking. This will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. There are a number of different marinades that you can use, so feel free to experiment until you find one that you like.

After the steak has been properly marinated, it is then time to cook it. The best way to cook a flank steak is on a grill or in a cast-iron skillet. If you are using a grill, make sure to set it to medium-high heat. And if you are cooking the steak in a skillet, make sure to preheat it before adding the meat.

Is It Necessary To Allow The Flank Steak To Rest Before Slicing And Serving?

After the flank steak has been cooked, it is important to allow it to rest for about five minutes. This will help to ensure that the juices stay in the meat, rather than running out when you cut into it. However, if you are short on time, you can also slice and serve the steak immediately after cooking. Just make sure to be careful when slicing so that you don’t lose any of the delicious juices.

It Is Impossible For Me To Reheat The Flank Steak Leftovers?

If you have leftover flank steak, there are a few different ways that you can reheat it. The best way to reheat flank steak is by placing it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also microwave the steak on high for two minutes. However, if you want to preserve the flavor and texture of the meat, the best way to reheat it is by using a skillet. Just make sure to preheat the skillet before adding the steak.

What Are Some Of The Alternatives To Flank Steak?

If you are not a fan of flank steak, there are a few other beef cuts that you can try. The most popular alternatives are the ribeye steak, the strip steak, and the T-bone steak. These cuts are all more expensive than the flank steak, but they are also more tender and flavorful. So, if you are looking for a more premium beef cut, these three options are definitely worth considering.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, we have found the full answer to the question “what is flank steak?”. Flank steak is a cut of meat from the abdominal muscles or diaphragm of beef or lamb. Because it comes from a hard-working muscle, flank steak is a flavorful and tough cut that needs to be slow-cooked, making it perfect for braising, stewing, or grilling. When prepared properly, flank steak can be tender and juicy, perfect for your next barbecue! So, after knowing fully about the flank steak, give it a try today!