Flank steak is a popular cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. One such dish is stuffed flank steak, which is a flavorful and impressive meal that can be served for any occasion.

However, cutting flank steak for stuffing can be a bit tricky, as the meat can be tough and difficult to work with. In this article, we will discuss how to cut flank steak for stuffing.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a relatively tough piece of meat compared to other cuts and requires some special techniques to make it tender. Flank steak is often used in dishes like fajitas, stir-fry, and stuffed flank steak.

Preparing Flank Steak

Before you start cutting the flank steak for stuffing, it’s important to prepare the meat properly. Start by laying the flank steak flat on a cutting board with the grain running horizontally. The grain refers to the lines on the meat that run parallel to each other.

Using a sharp knife, trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the surface of the meat. This will help prevent toughness and ensure even cooking.

Cutting Flank Steak for Stuffing

To cut flank steak for stuffing, you need to butterfly it first. This means that you need to create an opening in the center of the meat so that you can stuff it with your desired filling.

To butterfly flank steak, start by making a horizontal cut about 1/2 inch from one long edge of the steak. Cut through until just before reaching the other side so that it remains attached.

Next, make another horizontal cut parallel to your first one but this time about 1 inch away from it. Again, only cut through until just before reaching the other side.

After making these two cuts, you should have created a flap in the meat that can be opened up to stuff your filling. If you have a thicker flank steak, you may need to make additional horizontal cuts to create more flaps.

Tips for Cutting Flank Steak for Stuffing

– Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife will make the cutting process easier and safer. – Cut against the grain: When cutting the meat, make sure to cut against the grain.

This will help make the meat more tender. – Don’t overstuff: Make sure not to overstuff the flank steak, as this can cause it to burst while cooking. – Use toothpicks: To keep the stuffing in place, use toothpicks to secure the flap of meat shut.

  • Conclusion:

Cutting flank steak for stuffing may seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of practice and patience, it can be easily done. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious stuffed flank steak that is sure to impress your family and friends.