What is Pork Flank Steak? | Pork Steak Guide

by Mevell Kitchen
25 May, 2023
7 min read

what is pork flank steak

Pork Flank Steak is a popular and delicious cut of meat that comes from the belly of the pig, offering an intense flavor and a tender texture. As an alternative to traditional cuts of beef, this juicy and tender steak is a cut from the animal that boasts a layer of fat which creates a rich, mouthwatering experience.

With a sharp kitchen knife, you can easily prepare this cut by trimming the fat to your liking and pairing it with your favorite sauce. Intrigued? Read on to discover the secrets to making the perfect Pork Flank Steak and why it's becoming a popular choice for meat lovers everywhere.

In the following guide, we'll dive deeper into the world of Pork Flank Steak, exploring various preparation methods, tips for achieving optimal tenderness, and the best sauces and accompaniments to enhance its delicious flavor. Unleash your culinary creativity with this versatile and succulent part of the pig, and impress your family and friends with your new-found expertise in the art of Pork Flank Steak.

How to Cut Pork Flank Steak?

Cutting Pork Flank Steak can be a simple task, whether you prefer to have it done by a professional butcher or choose to cut it yourself. With the right approach and attention to detail, you can achieve the perfect thickness and consistency for your delicious dish.

If you decide to ask a butcher to cut the Pork Flank Steak for you, don't hesitate to specify your preferences. Butchers are skilled in handling various pork cuts and can provide you with the exact thickness you desire. You can request a thick cut for a more robust, crusty texture or a thinner one for quicker cooking and a more delicate taste. Remember, communication is key when it comes to getting the perfect cut from your butcher.

On the other hand, if you choose to cut the Pork Flank Steak yourself, be sure to follow these steps carefully to ensure you properly prepare the meat:

First thing, locate the Pork Flank Steak at your local grocery store. It's essential to read the label carefully to ensure you're purchasing the correct cut. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask for assistance from a store employee.
Once you have your Pork Flank Steak, you'll need to decide on the thickness of the slices. Think about how you plan to cook the steak and what kind of dish you're creating. Thicker cuts may require longer cooking times, while thinly sliced steaks will cook faster.
To cut the Pork Flank Steak, use a sharp kitchen knife specially designed for cutting meat. Lay the meat on a clean cutting board, with the grain of the meat running horizontally.
Start by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the steak. Be careful not to remove too much, as the fat adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
Next, begin slicing the Pork Flank Steak. For thicker cuts, aim for slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. For thinner slices, go for around 0.5 inches thick. Remember to cut against the grain, which will help make the meat more tender.
As you cut, be sure to maintain a consistent thickness for each slice. This will help ensure even cooking and a better overall presentation.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to preparing perfectly sliced Pork Flank Steak for your next meal. Whether you decide to have a butcher handle the cutting or do it yourself, remember that practice makes perfect. The more you work with this delicious cut of meat, the more skilled you'll become in preparing it for your culinary creations.

Ways to Cook Flank Steak

There are several ways to cook Flank Steak, each with its own unique benefits and flavors. The most popular methods are pan-searing, grilling, and oven-baking. Each technique brings out the best in this cut of meat, offering a delicious and tender meal.

Pan-Sear

Pan-searing is a fantastic way to cook Flank Steak quickly while sealing in its flavor. To pan-sear your steak, follow these steps:

Dry the steak with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a thin layer of oil to the pan.
Place the steak directly into the hot oil, cooking one side for about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cut. Flip the steak and cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired temperature, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Grill

Grilling is an excellent method for cooking Flank Steak, especially when marinated to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor. Here's how to grill your Flank Steak:

Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge. A mix of barbecue sauce, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices will work wonders.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
Place the pork directly on the grill, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Oven-Baked

Oven-baking is another popular way to cook Flank Steak, especially when aiming for a tender, slow-cooked texture. To oven-bake your Flank Steak, follow these instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the steak with salt, pepper, and your choice of dry rub or marinade.
In a large, oven-safe frying pan, heat a thin layer of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side to develop a crust.
Place the pan with the steak directly into the preheated oven, and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Each of these methods offers a different way to enjoy the flavour and tenderness of Flank Steak. When cooked whole and sliced thinly against the grain, this cut of meat can be a delicious and low in fat addition to your menu.

Ultimately, the best way to cook Flank Steak comes down to personal preference and the specific dish you're preparing. Whether you opt for pan-searing, grilling, or oven-baking, you can't go wrong with this versatile and tasty cut of meat. By experimenting with different cooking methods, you'll discover the

Tips on Buying Pork Flan Steak

When purchasing Flank Steak, it's crucial to know what to look for to ensure you're getting the best quality meat for your meal. Flank Steak is a lean, flavorful, and versatile cut of beef, making it a popular choice for various dishes. Here are some helpful tips for buying Flank Steak that will ensure you bring home the best cut possible:

Marbling: Look for a Flank Steak with some marbling throughout the meat, which refers to the small streaks of fat dispersed within the lean muscle tissue. Marbling is essential as it contributes to the tenderness, juiciness, and flavor of the steak. While Flank Steak is naturally leaner than other cuts, a little marbling will go a long way in enhancing the taste and texture of your dish.
Color: Pay attention to the color of the Flank Steak. It should have a bright, cherry-red hue, indicating freshness and high-quality protein. Steer clear of steaks that have a brownish or dull appearance, as this may indicate that the meat is past its prime or hasn't been stored properly.
Thickness: Flank Steak is cut from the abdominal muscles of the animal, so it should be relatively thin and uniform in thickness. This consistency allows for even cooking and makes it easy to achieve the desired level of doneness. Look for a steak that is about 0.5 to 1 inch thick for the best results.
Size: Consider the size of the Flank Steak based on your specific needs. If you're cooking for a large group, you may want to purchase a larger cut of meat to ensure there's enough to go around. Alternatively, if you're cooking for just yourself or a small group, a smaller piece will suffice.
Supplier: It's always a good idea to purchase meat from a trusted supplier, whether that's a local butcher, a grocery store with a good reputation, or a high-quality online meat purveyor. By buying from a reliable source, you can be more confident in the quality of the Flank Steak you're purchasing.
Alternative cuts: If you can't find Flank Steak or want to explore other options, consider cuts such as skirt steak, flat iron steak, or even a cut of pork like the pork shoulder. These alternative cuts can also provide a wonderfully tender and flavorful experience for your meal.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you're purchasing the best Flank Steak for your dish. Remember, investing in a high-quality cut of meat is crucial for a delicious and satisfying meal. So, take the time to thoroughly inspect the Flank Steak before buying, and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures it brings to your table.

Conclusion

If you are a fan of Flank Steak, you know the importance of having a high-quality cut of meat and the right tools to prepare it. Whether you're pan-searing, grilling, or oven roasting, having the perfect Flank Steak recipe and method can make all the difference in your culinary experience.

Related Products You Might Like

To make the most of your Flank Steak endeavors, consider using a wooden cutting board. Wooden cutting boards are gentle on your knives, provide a stable surface for slicing, and add a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

We at Mevell offer 100% Canadian-made wooden cutting boards, perfect for preparing your favorite Flank Steak dishes while showcasing your commitment to quality and style.