When it comes to making beef and broccoli, flank steak is the go-to cut of beef for many people. However, there are times when you might not have flank steak on hand or you might want to try something different.
If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry! There are several cuts of beef that can be used as a substitute for flank steak in your beef and broccoli dish.
1. Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is a popular alternative to flank steak.
Both cuts come from the abdominal muscle of the cow, so they have similar texture and flavor profiles. Skirt steak has a bit more fat than flank steak, which can make it more flavorful and tender.
How to Use Skirt Steak: Cut the skirt steak against the grain into thin strips and marinate it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Skirt steak cooks quickly so be careful not to overcook it.
2. Sirloin Steak
Sirloin is a leaner cut of meat than flank or skirt steak, but it still works well in beef and broccoli dishes. Sirloin is usually less expensive than flank or skirt steak, making it a great budget-friendly option.
How to Use Sirloin Steak: Cut sirloin into thin strips against the grain and marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Because sirloin is leaner than other cuts of beef, be sure not to overcook it as it can become tough.
3. Ribeye Steak
Ribeye is a fattier cut of meat than flank or sirloin but its marbling makes it very tender and flavorful when cooked correctly. Ribeye has a rich flavor that pairs well with broccoli.
How to Use Ribeye Steak: Cut ribeye into thin strips against the grain and marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Ribeye is very tender and doesn’t need a lot of cooking time, so be careful not to overcook it.
4. Tenderloin Steak
Tenderloin is the most tender cut of beef, but it can be expensive. It has a mild flavor that works well with the bold flavor of broccoli.
How to Use Tenderloin Steak: Cut tenderloin into thin strips against the grain and marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Tenderloin cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it.
- There are several cuts of beef that can be used as a substitute for flank steak in your beef and broccoli dish.
- Skirt steak is similar in texture and flavor to flank steak but has more fat.
- Sirloin is leaner than other cuts of beef but still works well in beef and broccoli dishes.
- Ribeye has a rich, bold flavor that pairs well with broccoli.
- Tenderloin is the most tender cut of beef but can be expensive.
The Bottom Line
If you find yourself without flank steak, don’t worry! There are several cuts of beef that can be used as a substitute in your beef and broccoli dish.
Skirt steak, sirloin, ribeye, and tenderloin are all great options with their own unique flavors and textures. Try experimenting with different cuts to find your favorite!