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Have you ever heard of flat iron steak? If you’re a steak lover, this lesser-known cut of meat may just become your new favorite. Despite its growing popularity, many people are still unfamiliar with what flat iron steak is and how to prepare it. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about this delicious cut of beef.
What Is Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of a cow. It is taken from the muscle that lies in between the shoulder blade and the top blade of the shoulder. This muscle is also known as the “top blade” or “chuck eye” muscle. Flat iron steak is a tender and flavorful cut that is similar in texture to a ribeye or a strip steak.
Did you know that scientists found that Flat Iron Steak is the second most tender steak next to Tenderloin steak? They discovered this by testing the shear forces of various beef cuts.
How to Cook Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be prepared in a variety of ways. It can be grilled, pan-seared or sous vide. You can keep it simple with a bit of salt and pepper or try your favourite marinade!
The key to cooking flat iron steak is to not overcook it. Like all beef, it can become tough if it is overcooked.
One of the best ways to cook flat iron steak is by grilling it. To grill a flat iron steak, preheat your grill to high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, and place it on the grill. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
Another great way to cook flat iron steak is by pan-searing it. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, and add a tablespoon of oil. Season the steak with salt and pepper, and place it in the skillet. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
How to Serve Flat Iron Steak
Flat iron steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be served in a variety of ways:
- slice it and serve it with a side of vegetables or a salad
- It can also be used as a filling for tacos, fajitas, or sandwiches
- slice it thinly and serve it over a bed of rice or noodles
- add a sauce or marinade to your flat iron steak to create a flavourful dish, such as chimichurri, garlic butter, or teriyaki
How to Slice Flat Iron Steak
You want to make sure that you slice it against the grain to ensure that it is as tender as possible. Slicing against the grain means that you are cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. This helps to break up the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
To slice flat iron steak against the grain, first identify the direction of the muscle fibers. Then, use a sharp knife to cut across the fibers, making thin slices. Cutting against the grain can make all the difference in the tenderness of your flat iron steak, so be sure not to skip this important step!
What Does Flat Iron Steak Taste Like?
Flat iron steak has a rich, beefy flavor that is similar to a ribeye or a strip steak. It is a tender and juicy cut of beef that is perfect for grilling or pan-searing. It is also perfectly marbled yet remains on the leaner side, which makes it a healthier option than some of the other cuts of beef.
What Cuts Can I Substitute for Flat Iron?
There are only 2 flat iron steaks per side of beef (or 4 per animal) so this cut can be tricky to find!
If you are unable to find flat iron steak at your local grocery store or butcher shop, there are several substitutions that can be used. One option is to use flank steak, which is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that is similar in texture to flat iron steak. Hanger steak, vegas steak or teres major are great choices. Other options include strip steak, sirloin steak, and ribeye steak, although these cuts cost a bit more than flat iron steak. Ultimately, the best substitute will depend on your personal preferences and the recipe you are using.
Final Thoughts
Flat iron steak is a delicious cut of beef that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. It is a delicious and healthy option that is perfect for grilling or pan-searing. If you have never tried flat iron steak before, it is definitely worth giving it a try. So next time you are at the grocery store or your local butcher shop, be sure to pick up a flat iron steak and try it for yourself!
