Flank steak

Flank steak

Raw flank steak
Alternative names	London broil
Course	Main course
Place of origin	Worldwide
Food energy (per 100 g serving)	158 kcal (662 kJ)
Nutritional value (per 100 g serving)	Protein 25.5 g g Fat 5.6 g g Carbohydrate {{{carbohydrate}}} g
Other information	Iron: 15%
Cookbook: Flank steak   Media: Flank steak

Flank steak is a popular and flavorful cut of beef prized for its rich, beefy taste and versatility in various culinary applications. Also known as London broil in some regions, flank steak is derived from the abdominal muscles of the cow, specifically the lower chest or abdominal area.

Description

Flank steak is characterized by its long, flat shape and distinctive grain pattern, which runs perpendicular to the length of the meat fibers. It is a lean cut of beef with minimal marbling, making it suitable for quick-cooking methods such as grilling, broiling, or pan-searing. When properly prepared and cooked, flank steak is tender and juicy, with a robust flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and marinades.

Culinary Uses

Flank steak is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic steak dinners to wraps, salads, stir-fries, and tacos. Its thinness and relatively large surface area make it ideal for marinating, as the flavors can penetrate the meat more effectively. Common methods of cooking flank steak include:

• Grilling: Flank steak cooks quickly over high heat on a grill, developing a charred exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. It is often marinated beforehand to enhance flavor and tenderness.

• Broiling: Broiling flank steak in the oven produces similar results to grilling, with the meat developing a caramelized crust and succulent interior. It is important to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking.

• Pan-Searing: Searing flank steak in a hot skillet or frying pan creates a flavorful crust on the exterior while retaining moisture inside. It can be finished in the oven or served directly from the pan, depending on the desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Flank steak can be enjoyed on its own as a main course or incorporated into various recipes. Some popular serving suggestions include:

• Steak Dinners: Sliced flank steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Tacos: Thinly sliced flank steak makes a delicious filling for tacos, especially when combined with fresh salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese.
• Stir-Fries: Flank steak adds flavor and protein to stir-fry dishes when cooked with vegetables and Asian-inspired sauces such as soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
• Sandwiches: Sliced flank steak can be layered on crusty bread with cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a flavorful sandwich option.

Nutritional Information

A 100-gram serving of flank steak provides approximately 158 calories, 25.5 grams of protein, 5.6 grams of fat, and 61 milligrams of cholesterol. It is also a good source of iron, providing 15% of the recommended daily intake.

See also

• Beef
• Steak
• Grilling
• Marination
• London broil