Flank steak is a delicious cut of meat that is known for its versatility and flavor. However, many people are unsure about how to cook it properly, especially when it comes to the question of whether or not it can be served with a little bit of pink in the center. In this article, we will explore this topic in depth and provide you with all the information you need to know about cooking flank steak.
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the lower abdominal area of the cow. It is typically long and thin, with visible lines of fat running through it. While it is not as tender as other cuts like filet mignon or ribeye, it is still a popular choice for grilling, broiling, or pan-searing due to its rich flavor.
Can Flank Steak Be Served With Pink in the Center?
The short answer is yes – flank steak can be served with a little bit of pink in the center. Unlike other cuts of meat like chicken or pork that need to be cooked all the way through to prevent foodborne illness, beef can be cooked to varying degrees of doneness based on personal preference.
Understanding Meat Doneness
Before we dive into whether or not flank steak can be served pink in the center, let’s first discuss what different levels of meat doneness mean:
- Rare: The internal temperature of the meat is 125-130°F. The center will be bright red and very soft.
- Medium Rare: The internal temperature of the meat is 130-135°F. The center will be pink and slightly firm.
- Medium: The internal temperature of the meat is 135-145°F.
The center will be light pink and firm.
- Medium Well: The internal temperature of the meat is 145-155°F. The center will be slightly pink and very firm.
- Well Done: The internal temperature of the meat is 155°F or higher. The center will be gray-brown and very firm.
Cooking Flank Steak
When it comes to cooking flank steak, it’s important to remember that this cut of meat is best served medium-rare to medium. This means that the center will have a slight pink hue but will still be cooked through enough to be safe to eat.
To achieve this level of doneness, you should cook your flank steak for about 3-4 minutes per side on high heat. This will give you a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Why Can Flank Steak Be Served With Pink in the Center?
The reason why flank steak can be served with a little bit of pink in the center has to do with its composition. Unlike ground beef, which is made up of many different pieces of meat that have been mashed together, flank steak is a single piece that has not been compromised by any additional processing.
This means that any bacteria that may be present on the surface of the meat have not been pushed into the interior during processing, making it safe to consume even when cooked with a little bit of pink in the center.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flank steak can indeed be served with a little bit of pink in the center as long as it has reached an internal temperature of at least 130°F. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a delicious and safe meal that is sure to impress your guests. So go ahead and grill up some juicy and flavorful flank steak – just make sure not to overcook it!