DISCOVERING THE DELIGHT OF FLANK STEAK: A VERSATILE CUT FROM HERD 77

Welcome to the Herd 77 blog, where we bring you closer to the finest cuts of beef from our pasture-raised, grass-fed, grain-finished, and hormone-free cattle. Today, we’re diving into the delicious world of flank steak—a cut that promises both flavor and versatility, making it a favorite for family dinners and backyard barbecues alike.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a long, flat cut that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, specifically the lower chest or belly area. This location gives it a robust beefy flavor and a distinctive texture. Despite being lean, it boasts a satisfying chew and an intense, meaty taste, making it a popular choice for a variety of dishes.

The Unique Flavor of Flank Steak

Flank steak is known for its deep, rich beef flavor, which stands out even among other cuts. Its lean nature means that it’s less marbled than ribeye or sirloin, but it compensates with a bold taste that pairs well with a variety of marinades and seasonings. When cooked correctly, flank steak remains juicy and tender, making it a versatile option for many recipes.

Cooking Flank Steak: Tips and Techniques

Given its lean nature, flank steak is best cooked over high heat for a short period, ensuring it retains its juiciness without becoming tough. Here are some popular ways to cook flank steak:

Grilling: Perfect for summer barbecues, grilling flank steak gives it a delicious char and smoky flavor. Marinate the steak for a few hours to enhance its tenderness, then grill over high heat for about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Broiling: If you don't have a grill, broiling is an excellent alternative. Place the marinated steak on a broiler pan and cook about 4-6 inches from the heat source for approximately 5 minutes per side.

Pan-Searing: For an indoor cooking option, a cast-iron skillet works wonders. Heat the skillet until it’s smoking hot, then sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side. This method creates a flavorful crust while keeping the interior tender.

Popular Flank Steak Recipes

To inspire your next meal, here are a few popular recipes that highlight the versatility of flank steak:

1. Grilled Marinated Flank Steak

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1.5 pounds Herd 77 Flank Steak

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, vinegar, and black pepper.

Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Preheat the grill to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off.

Grill the steak for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness.

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.

2. Stuffed Flank Steak

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds Herd 77 Flank Steak
• 1 cup spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Butterfly the flank steak by slicing it horizontally but not cutting all the way through.

Open the steak and layer spinach leaves, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese.

Roll the steak up tightly and secure it with kitchen twine.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rolled steak on all sides until browned.

Transfer the steak to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

3. Flank Steak Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds Herd 77 Flank Steak
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Diced onions
• Salsa

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate the steak in this mixture for at least 1 hour.

Preheat a grill or skillet to high heat. Cook the steak for 3-5 minutes per side.

Let the steak rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

Warm the corn tortillas and fill them with steak slices, cilantro, onions, and salsa.

Flank steak from Herd 77 offers an unbeatable combination of flavor, tenderness, and versatility. Whether you’re grilling, broiling, or pan-searing, this cut is sure to impress. Try out these recipes and bring the rich, natural taste of our pasture-raised, grass-fed, and hormone-free beef to your table. Enjoy the delicious journey with Herd 77, where quality and flavor are always paramount.

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