Flap steak and flank steak are two cuts of beef that are often confused with each other. Although they are both taken from the abdominal area of the cow, there are some significant differences between them. In this article, we will explore the key differences between flap steak and flank steak.

What is Flap Steak?

Flap steak is a cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin butt. It is also known as sirloin tip or sirloin bavette.

This cut of meat is long and flat, with a pronounced grain running through it. Flap steak is relatively lean and has a mild flavor compared to other cuts of beef.

Flavor: Mild
Tenderness: Moderately tender
Cooking Method: Best suited for grilling or broiling

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, specifically the lower chest area. It is a long, flat cut with a distinct grain pattern running along its length. Flank steaks tend to be tougher than other cuts of beef but have an intense beefy flavor that makes them popular in dishes such as fajitas and stir-fries.

Flavor: Intense beefy flavor
Tenderness: Tough
Cooking Method: Best suited for marinating and grilling or broiling

Differences Between Flap Steak and Flank Steak

  • Cut of Meat: Flap steak comes from the bottom sirloin butt while flank steak comes from the lower chest area.
  • Tenderness: While flap steak is moderately tender, flank steak tends to be tougher.
  • Flavor: Flap steak has a mild flavor, while flank steak has an intense beefy flavor.
  • Cooking Method: Flap steak is best suited for grilling or broiling, while flank steak is best suited for marinating and grilling or broiling.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between flap steak and flank steak depends on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor and moderately tender meat, go for flap steak. If you want a more intense beefy flavor and are willing to put in some effort to tenderize the meat, then flank steak is the way to go.

In conclusion, while flap steak and flank steak may look similar, they are two distinct cuts of beef with different characteristics. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right cut of meat for your next meal.