the flank cut

beef cut diagram: flank

If you’re in search of a good, all-purpose cut of beef, look no further than the flank cut. It’s fine for grilling, broiling, sautéing, or roasting. Another plus: Flank is an inexpensive, boneless cut with lots of beefy flavor.

Our 100% grass fed beef flank cut from Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed provides you and your family with a low-fat meal rich in nutrients.

flank meat

Flank meat comes from the animal’s abdomen, below the loin and sirloin. This primal cut is long and flat. The area contains a lot of muscle, used when the steer walks, so flank meat can prove tough if not marinated or cooked properly.

 

Flank meat is quite lean. If there is fat on the cut, that is an indication it was not trimmed correctly. This lack of fat means some tenderizing is needed. Because it is so thin, it absorbs marinade exceptionally well. Too many consumers overlook this versatile cut because it is so thin.

 

It is sometimes referred to as “jiffy steak” due to its quick grilling time. In France, it is known as Bavette steak.

what is flank meat good for?

Unlike other primal beef cuts, flank meat is not divided into smaller cuts, but cooked whole. When carving, slice flank meat thinly, against the grain. Due to its thin cut and cheap price, flank meat is frequently overlooked as a good steak source. However, it is the cut used for London broil. The difference between flank steak and London broil lies in the cooking. The former is cooked whole, while the latter is cut into large sections prior to cooking.

 

While flank steak is similar to skirt steak, there are differences. Flank meat cuts are flatter and have more muscle fibers in them.  One simple way to tell the difference is by color. Flank steak is a much brighter red than skirt steak. That’s due to the large amount of blood flowing to this section of the anatomy.

 

Besides London broil, flank steak is a good choice for fajitas, Moo Shu beef, beef tacos, and steak wraps. Many Asian beef recipes call for this cut. Steak jerky is often made from the flank meat cut. If you have leftovers, thin slices make great steak sandwiches, whether served hot or cold.

Learn more About Beef Cuts

Why do some beef cuts cost more than others?

What are the toughest and tenderest parts of the cow?

What is the best way to cook different meat cuts?

 

 

If you are not always certain about what cuts of beef are best for your purposes, learn more about your favorites with our guide to beef cuts.

100% Grass Fed Beef Flank Cuts

At Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed, our 100% Grass Fed Beef receive no growth hormones, antibiotics, or grains – our cattle consume only grass or forage. Using the principles of regenerative agriculture, cattle graze as they evolved to do and help maintain biodiversity on the grasslands. Not only is our meat healthier for the body, as it is leaner and contains more nutrients than grain-fed beef, but also healthier for the planet.  Check out our online store and don’t miss our subscription bundle deals. Order today and receive fast shipping!

“All the benefits of grass-fed beef are ONLY gained when the cattle are holistically grazed for their lifetime.”
Matt Maier
Chief Renegade
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