Flank steak is a popular cut of beef that is widely used in Italian cuisine. Known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture, flank steak is often used in hearty dishes like pasta, stews, and sandwiches. In this article, we will explore what flank steak is in Italian cuisine and how it can be incorporated into your cooking.
What Is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the lower abdominal muscle of the cow and is a long, flat piece of meat that is typically about 1 inch thick. It’s a lean cut of meat with little fat marbling, which makes it a healthy choice for those who are watching their fat intake.
Flank Steak in Italian Cuisine
In Italian cuisine, flank steak is often referred to as “fesa di vitello” or “fesa di manzo.” It’s a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked using various methods such as grilling, broiling, or pan-frying. Flank steak can also be marinated to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
How to Cook Flank Steak
One popular way to cook flank steak in Italian cuisine is by grilling it. To do this, you’ll want to season the meat with salt and pepper before placing it on a hot grill. Cook the steak for 4-6 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Another way to cook flank steak is by pan-frying it. To do this, heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak with salt and pepper before placing it in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until it’s cooked through.
How to Incorporate Flank Steak into Your Cooking
One great way to use flank steak in Italian cooking is by making a hearty pasta dish. Cook some pasta according to the instructions on the package and set it aside. In a separate pan, sauté some onions and garlic in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant.
Add some diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. Slice your cooked flank steak into thin strips and add it to the pan along with some fresh basil. Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta for a delicious Italian meal.
Another way to use flank steak is by making a hearty sandwich. Toast some bread and spread some pesto on one side. Add sliced flank steak, arugula, tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese to the sandwich before topping it with another slice of bread.
Conclusion
Flank steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in various Italian dishes like pasta, stews, sandwiches, and more. It’s a lean cut of meat that’s full of flavor and can be cooked using various methods like grilling or pan-frying. Incorporate flank steak into your cooking today for a delicious Italian-inspired meal!