What is Flank Steak
If you’ve never had flank steak, you’re in for a treat. I enjoy its bold flavor profile and flexibility. It’s a long cut coming from the abdominal muscles of a cow.
What Can You Expect In A Flank Steak?
When you’re thinking about what steak to use, it’s nice to know what you can expect. Here are specifics about flank steak.
- Appearance: There is a layer of fat on one side. The grain runs along the steak’s width. On average they weigh 1.5-2 pounds and measure 12” long.
- Flavor: If you like real beefy flavor, flank steak is robust and concentrated. The taste changes when you add rubs or use a marinade.
- Texture: Lean
- Uses: Slice flank steak up for fajitas, add it to salads, cut it fine for stir-fry, or just enjoy it as it is!
Best Ways to Prepare Flank Steak
Most people agree that flank steak improves if you marinate it for at least two hours. From there, you can:
- Broil: 5 minutes per side
- Grill: Similar to broiling: 5 minutes per side
- Pan-Sear: Use cast iron and sear the steak for about 3 minutes on each side. Add a dab of butter to the pan and season as desired.
Flank Steak Compared to Other Cuts
Filet Mignon: A very tender cut with less marbling than a flank steak
New York Strip: Good marbling, juicy and flavorful. More tender than flank steak
Sirloin Steak: Good flavor and tenderness with more marbling than a flank steak
TBone: The Tbone has a tenderloin on one side and a strip steak on the other, giving you variety. Tender and flavorful
Ribeye: Great marbling gives this steak a rich flavor. It’s far juicer than flank steak.
Pit Master’s Memo
Cuso offers an all-natural seasoning line. Some that you might enjoy with flank steak include
Cuso’s Dirt: Earthy and slightly sweet
Cuso’s Gravel: Unique heat and texture
Cuso’s Roasted Garlic and Onion: A traditional pairing you can trust
Cuso’s Mud Barbecue Sauce: A tomato backdrop with a host of herbs and spices
Sides
Honey brussels sprouts
Mediterranean roasted vegetables
Thai salad
Zucchini fritters
Desert
NY Cheesecake
Rhubarb pie
Sorbet
Strawberry panna cotta
Walnut torte
From the Bar
Bourbon
Malbec
Martini
Nutty brown ale
Sparkling apple juice
