Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of meat that can be used for a variety of dishes. It comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow and is known for its rich beefy flavor.
However, when it comes to cooking flank steak, there are some techniques that you need to know to make it tender and juicy. One such technique is pounding the meat.
What is Pounding
Pounding is a technique used to tenderize meat by flattening it with a meat mallet or rolling pin. The process breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, making it easier to chew and digest. Pounding also allows marinades and seasonings to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing its flavor.
Can You Pound Flank Steak
Yes, you can pound flank steak! In fact, pounding flank steak can be an effective way to tenderize this cut of meat. However, it’s important to note that flank steak is already a relatively thin cut of meat, so you don’t want to overdo it with the pounding.
When pounding flank steak, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the meat until it’s even in thickness. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch or slightly less. Be careful not to pound too hard or for too long, as this can break down the fibers in the meat too much and turn it into mush.
Other Techniques for Tenderizing Flank Steak
While pounding can be an effective way to tenderize flank steak, there are other techniques you can use as well:
Marinating: Marinating flank steak in an acidic marinade can help break down the tough fibers in the meat. Try marinating your flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar for several hours before cooking.
Slicing Against the Grain: When slicing flank steak, be sure to cut against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines of muscle fibers in the meat. Slicing against the grain helps break down the tough fibers, making the meat more tender.
Cooking Low and Slow: Flank steak can be cooked quickly at high heat, but it’s also great for slow cooking methods like braising or stewing. Cooking low and slow allows the meat to become tender and juicy while developing rich flavors.
The Bottom Line
Pounding flank steak can be an effective way to tenderize this flavorful cut of meat. However, it’s important not to overdo it with the pounding.
Other techniques like marinating, slicing against the grain, and cooking low and slow can also help make your flank steak tender and delicious. So go ahead and pound that flank steak if you want, but don’t forget about these other great techniques as well!
- Marinating
- Slicing Against The Grain
- Cooking Low And Slow
Conclusion
Flank steak is a delicious cut of meat that can be challenging to cook correctly. Pounding is one technique that can help make your flank steak tender and delicious.
Just remember not to overdo it with the pounding, as you don’t want to turn your meat into mush! Try combining pounding with other techniques like marinating or slicing against the grain for even better results. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to cook up a fantastic flank steak that will impress all your dinner guests!