What Cut of the Cow Is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a popular cut of beef that is known for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking. But do you know which part of the cow it comes from? In this article, we will explore the anatomy of a cow and explain what cut of the cow is flank steak.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a lean, boneless cut of meat that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is long and flat, with a distinctive grain running across it. This grain makes it ideal for slicing against the grain to maximize tenderness.

The Anatomy of a Cow

Before we dive into where flank steak comes from, let’s take a moment to understand the anatomy of a cow. A cow has four main sections: the head, neck and shoulder region (also known as the chuck), the rib section, the loin section, and finally, the round and flank sections.

The Round and Flank Sections

The round and flank sections are located towards the rear end of the cow. The round section includes cuts like eye round roast, bottom round roast, and top round steak. The flank section includes cuts like skirt steak and flank steak.

Where Does Flank Steak Come From?

As mentioned earlier, flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. Specifically, it is cut from the lower chest or abdominal area of the animal. This area has to work hard to support the weight of the animal, which makes it leaner than other cuts like ribeye or sirloin.

Cooking Flank Steak

Now that you know what cut flank steak is, let’s talk about how to cook it! Flank steak is best when cooked quickly over high heat to medium rare or medium doneness.

It can be grilled, broiled or pan-seared. Because it is lean, it benefits from a marinade to help tenderize and add flavor.

• Marinade: A simple marinade can be made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic and olive oil.
• Searing: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Add the steak and sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
• Resting: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

In Conclusion

Flank steak is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is leaner than other cuts but benefits from a marinade to help tenderize and add flavor.

Remember to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. Now that you know where flank steak comes from, go ahead and try out some new recipes!