Flank steak is a popular cut of beef for its rich flavor and versatility. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or slow cooking, flank steak can be a delicious addition to any meal. But when it comes to hosting a dinner party or feeding a crowd, the question always arises – how much flank steak do you need per person?
The Rule of Thumb
The general rule of thumb is to plan on about 8 ounces of flank steak per person. This takes into account the weight of the meat before cooking, which will shrink during the cooking process. It also allows for some leftovers or seconds if desired.
Factors to Consider
However, there are several factors to consider when determining exactly how much flank steak you’ll need per person. The first is the appetite and eating habits of your guests.
If you’re serving a group of big eaters or meat lovers, you may want to plan on closer to 10 ounces per person. On the other hand, if your guests are more health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, you may be able to get away with planning on 6-7 ounces per person.
Another factor to consider is what other dishes you’ll be serving alongside the flank steak. If you’re serving hearty sides like potatoes or pasta salad, you can plan on less meat per person than if you’re only serving a light salad or vegetables.
Cooking Methods and Shrinkage
It’s important to keep in mind that different cooking methods will result in different amounts of shrinkage for your flank steak. Grilling and broiling tend to result in more shrinkage than pan-searing or slow-cooking methods like braising.
For example, if you plan on grilling your flank steak, it’s better to plan on closer to 10 ounces per person due to the higher shrinkage rate. If using a slower cooking method like braising, you can plan on closer to 7-8 ounces per person.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the amount of flank steak you’ll need per person depends on several factors including the appetite and eating habits of your guests, what other dishes you’re serving, and the cooking method you’ll be using. As a general rule of thumb, plan on about 8 ounces of flank steak per person and adjust accordingly based on these factors. With proper planning and preparation, your guests will be sure to enjoy a delicious meal featuring this flavorful cut of beef.
- Rule of thumb: 8 ounces per person
- Consider guest’s appetite and eating habits
- Take into account other dishes being served
- Cooking method affects shrinkage rate
- Grilling/broiling – 10 oz per person
- Pan-searing/slow-cooking – 7-8 oz per person