Pink flank steak: a culinary dilemma or a tastebud adventure?

Flank steak is a flavorful and affordable cut of beef that is often used in fajitas, stir-fries, and other dishes. However, one of the most common questions about flank steak is whether or not it is supposed to be pink. In this blog post, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with everything you need to know about cooking flank steak perfectly.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a long, flat cut of beef that is taken from the lower abdominal muscles of the cow. It is a relatively lean cut of meat, but it is also very flavorful. Flank steak is typically marinated before cooking to help tenderize it.

Is Flank Steak Supposed to Be Pink?

The answer to this question is: yes, flank steak is supposed to be pink. Flank steak is a relatively tough cut of meat, and cooking it to a higher temperature will make it even tougher. The best way to cook flank steak is to cook it to a medium-rare or medium doneness. This will ensure that the steak is tender and juicy, while still being slightly pink in the center.

How to Cook Flank Steak

There are several different ways to cook flank steak. However, the most common methods are grilling, pan-searing, and roasting.

Grilling Flank Steak

To grill flank steak, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with your favorite spices.
3. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pan-Searing Flank Steak

To pan-sear flank steak, follow these steps:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with your favorite spices.
3. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
5. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Roasting Flank Steak

To roast flank steak, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Season the steak with your favorite spices.
3. Place the steak on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

What to Serve with Flank Steak

Flank steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be served with a variety of different sides. Some of the most popular sides for flank steak include:

• Grilled vegetables
• Roasted potatoes
• Rice
• Beans
• Salad

Tips for Cooking Flank Steak

Here are a few tips for cooking flank steak perfectly:

• Always marinate the steak before cooking. This will help to tenderize it and add flavor.
• Cook the steak to a medium-rare or medium doneness. This will ensure that the steak is tender and juicy.
• Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Final Thoughts

Flank steak is a delicious and affordable cut of beef that is perfect for a variety of different dishes. By following the tips in this blog post, you can cook flank steak perfectly every time.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Is flank steak the same as skirt steak?

No, flank steak and skirt steak are not the same. Flank steak is taken from the lower abdominal muscles of the cow, while skirt steak is taken from the diaphragm. Flank steak is typically leaner and more tender than skirt steak.

What is the best way to marinate flank steak?

There are many different ways to marinate flank steak. However, some of the most popular marinades include:

• Soy sauce, garlic, and ginger
• Olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs
• Red wine, vinegar, and spices

How long should I marinate flank steak?

The ideal marinating time for flank steak is 2-4 hours. However, you can marinate the steak for up to 24 hours if you have the time.