If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you’ve probably heard of fajitas and flank steak. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but are they really the same thing? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a long and flat piece of meat with coarse fibers, making it ideal for marinating and grilling. It’s also one of the most affordable cuts of beef, which is why it’s popular in many households.
What are Fajitas?
Fajitas, on the other hand, refer to a Mexican dish made with grilled meat (usually beef or chicken), peppers, onions, and various seasonings. The meat used in fajitas is typically flank steak because it has the perfect texture for this dish. However, fajitas can also be made with other cuts of beef or even chicken or shrimp.
So Are Flank Steak and Fajitas the Same Thing?
No, they’re not. While flank steak is often used in fajitas due to its texture and affordability, fajitas themselves refer to a specific dish that includes additional ingredients like peppers and onions.
How to Prepare Flank Steak for Fajitas
If you want to make fajitas using flank steak, here’s how you can prepare it:
- Marinate your flank steak in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat.
- Remove excess marinade from the flank steak before grilling.
- Grill your flank steak for about 4-5 minutes per side (or until desired doneness).
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like peppers, onions, guacamole, and sour cream.
Conclusion
In summary, flank steak and fajitas are not the same thing. Flank steak is a cut of beef that’s often used in fajitas due to its texture and affordability.
Fajitas, on the other hand, refer to a specific Mexican dish that includes additional ingredients like peppers and onions. Now that you know the difference between these two terms, you’ll be able to impress your friends with your newfound knowledge during your next Mexican feast!