The poor man’s ribeye: flank steak, the affordable cut with a premium taste

Contrary to popular belief, flank steak is not an expensive cut of meat. In fact, it’s one of the most affordable and versatile cuts available. Despite its low price, flank steak offers a bold and beefy flavor that rivals more expensive cuts.

Understanding the Flank Steak

Flank steak is a long, flat muscle located on the underside of the cow. It’s a relatively lean cut with a coarse grain and a pronounced beefy flavor. Flank steak is often used in stir-fries, tacos, and fajitas due to its ability to withstand high heat and marinades.

Why is Flank Steak Inexpensive?

There are several reasons why flank steak is an inexpensive cut:

1. Toughness: Flank steak is inherently tougher than other cuts due to its coarse grain and high collagen content. This toughness can be mitigated through proper preparation, such as marinating or tenderizing.
2. Location: Flank steak is located on a less desirable part of the cow, which contributes to its lower price.
3. Lack of Demand: Flank steak is not as popular as other cuts, such as ribeye or filet mignon, which has led to its lower market value.

Benefits of Using Flank Steak

Despite its affordability, flank steak offers several benefits:

1. Flavorful: Flank steak has a rich, beefy flavor that can enhance any dish.
2. Versatile: Flank steak can be grilled, roasted, stir-fried, or marinated, making it suitable for a wide range of recipes.
3. Affordable: As mentioned earlier, flank steak is one of the most inexpensive cuts of meat, making it a budget-friendly option.
4. Lean: Flank steak is a lean cut with a low fat content, making it a healthier choice.

How to Prepare Flank Steak

To prepare flank steak, follow these steps:

1. Marinate: Marinating flank steak for several hours or overnight helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
2. Slice against the grain: Slice the flank steak across the grain to create shorter muscle fibers, which results in a more tender texture.
3. Cook quickly: Flank steak should be cooked quickly over high heat to prevent it from becoming tough.
4. Rest before slicing: Allow the flank steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Flank Steak Recipes

Here are two delicious recipes to try with flank steak:

1. Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri: This classic Argentinian dish features grilled flank steak topped with a flavorful chimichurri sauce.
2. Flank Steak Stir-Fry with Vegetables: This quick and easy stir-fry combines flank steak with your favorite vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary: Embracing the Affordable Delicacy of Flank Steak

Flank steak is an often-overlooked cut of meat that offers exceptional flavor and versatility at an unbeatable price. By embracing this budget-friendly cut, you can create delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank. So, next time you’re looking for an affordable and flavorful cut of steak, consider the humble flank steak.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is flank steak as good as other cuts of steak?

While flank steak may not be as tender as more expensive cuts, it offers a unique and bold flavor that can be equally enjoyable.

2. Can I substitute flank steak for other cuts in recipes?

Yes, flank steak can be substituted for other cuts in recipes, but keep in mind that it may require different cooking methods to achieve the desired tenderness.

3. How do I make flank steak tender?

Marinating, slicing against the grain, and cooking quickly are all effective ways to tenderize flank steak.