When it comes to cooking steak, there are many different cuts to choose from. Two cuts that are often compared are flank steak and flat iron steak. While both of these cuts come from the same general area of the cow, they have some distinct differences that can affect how they are cooked and prepared.
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is a long, flat cut of beef that is known for its strong beefy flavor. Flank steak can be a relatively tough cut of meat, which means it benefits from marinating before cooking.
Many recipes call for flank steak to be grilled or broiled over high heat. It’s important not to overcook flank steak, as this can make it tough and Chewy. Instead, aim for medium-rare or medium doneness.
What is Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak comes from a muscle near the shoulder blade of the cow. It is a smaller cut of beef with a distinctive shape that looks like an old-fashioned flat iron (hence its name). Flat iron steak is known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture.
Flat iron steak can be cooked using a variety of methods including grilling, broiling, and pan-searing. Because it is relatively tender, it doesn’t require as much marinating as flank steak does. Aim for medium-rare or medium doneness when cooking flat iron steak.
The Differences Between Flank Steak and Flat Iron Steak
While both flank steak and flat iron steak are delicious in their own right, they do have some key differences:
- Cut: Flank steaks come from the abdominal muscles while flat irons come from near the shoulder blade.
- Texture: Flank steaks tend to be tougher than flat iron steaks.
- Flavor: Flank steaks have a strong beefy flavor while flat iron steaks are known for their rich, beefy flavor.
- Preparation: Flank steaks benefit from marinating before cooking while flat iron steaks require less marinating.
Choosing the Right Cut for Your Meal
When deciding between flank steak and flat iron steak, it’s important to consider what you plan to use the meat for. If you’re looking for a strong beefy flavor and don’t mind a little bit of toughness, flank steak might be the right choice. On the other hand, if you want a more tender cut of meat with a rich, beefy flavor, flat iron steak might be a better option.
No matter which cut you choose, be sure to follow proper cooking techniques to ensure that your steak turns out delicious and tender. Whether you’re grilling, broiling or pan-searing your steak, aim for medium-rare or medium doneness and be sure to let your meat rest before slicing and serving.
In Conclusion
While flank steak and flat iron steak may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between these two popular cuts of beef. By understanding these differences and choosing the right cut for your meal, you can ensure that your next steak dinner is both delicious and satisfying.