What’s Similar To Flank Steak? A Guide To Alternative Cuts

Are you tired of always cooking flank steak for dinner? Maybe you want to switch things up and try out a different cut of beef, but you’re not sure where to start. Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got you covered with a guide to alternative cuts that are similar to flank steak.

First up is skirt steak, which is often used in Mexican cuisine for dishes like fajitas. It’s a long, thin cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow. Similar to flank steak, it has a coarse texture and a rich, beefy flavor.

Another alternative cut to consider is hanger steak, which comes from the plate of the cow and is sometimes called ‘butcher’s steak’because butchers used to keep it for themselves. It’s a tender cut with a pronounced beef flavor, and it’s great for grilling or searing.

So, if you’re ready to switch things up and try something new, keep reading for more alternative cuts to flank steak.

Skirt Steak

Looking for a juicy and flavorful cut of beef that’s similar to flank steak? Look no further than skirt steak! This cut comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow and has a similar texture and flavor to flank steak.

It’s a long, thin cut that’s perfect for grilling or broiling, and it’s also great for fajitas or stir-fry dishes. When preparing skirt steak, it’s important to marinate it beforehand to help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. You can use a variety of marinades, from simple salt and pepper to more complex blends of spices and herbs.

Once you’ve marinated the steak, you can cook it quickly over high heat, either on the grill or in a hot cast-iron skillet. One thing to keep in mind when cooking skirt steak is that it’s best served medium-rare to medium, as it can become tough and chewy if overcooked.

Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, then slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. With its bold flavor and versatility, skirt steak is a great alternative to flank steak that’s sure to impress your guests at your next cookout or dinner party.

Hanger Steak

If you’re looking for a tender and flavorful cut of beef that’s often overlooked, hanger steak is a must-try. This cut comes from the muscle that attaches the diaphragm to the spine and is also known as the "butcher’s cut"because it used to be reserved for butchers.

Here are three reasons why hanger steak is worth trying:

1. It has a rich and beefy flavor. Hanger steak has a distinct flavor profile that’s often described as beefy and robust. This is because it comes from a muscle that’s used a lot, which gives it a lot of flavor.

2. It’s relatively affordable. Compared to other premium cuts like ribeye and filet mignon, hanger steak is relatively inexpensive. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for a flavorful steak that won’t break the bank.

3. It’s versatile. Hanger steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to pan-searing to broiling. It also pairs well with a variety of flavors, from chimichurri sauce to red wine reduction.

Overall, hanger steak is a delicious and underrated cut of beef that’s worth trying. It’s flavorful, affordable, and versatile, making it a great choice for any meal.

So, next time you’re at the butcher’s, don’t overlook the hanger steak. Give it a try and enjoy its rich, beefy flavor.

Flat Iron Steak

You’re in for a treat with the juicy and tender flat iron steak, a cut that’s quickly gaining popularity among steak lovers. This cut comes from the shoulder of the cow and is also known as a top blade steak. It’s a flavorful cut that’s perfect for grilling, broiling, or pan-searing.

When cooked properly, the flat iron steak has a rich, beefy flavor and a tender texture. It’s a great alternative to flank steak because it’s less expensive and just as delicious. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes like fajitas, stir-fries, and salads.

To prepare a flat iron steak, make sure to season it generously with salt and pepper before cooking. Sear it over high heat for a few minutes on each side and then finish it off in the oven or on the grill until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.

You won’t be disappointed with this flavorful and affordable cut of meat.

Sirloin Tip Steak

Get ready for a mouth-watering experience with the sirloin tip steak, a flavorful cut that’s perfect for grilling or broiling.

This cut comes from the sirloin region of the cow and is leaner than other cuts, making it a healthier option. But don’t let that fool you, the sirloin tip steak is still packed with flavor.

Here are three reasons why you should give the sirloin tip steak a try:

1. Versatility: This cut can be prepared in a variety of ways, from grilling to broiling to pan-searing. It’s also great in stir-fry dishes or thinly sliced for sandwiches.

2. Affordability: The sirloin tip steak is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. You can enjoy a delicious steak dinner without breaking the bank.

3. Tenderness: While this cut is leaner than others, it still has a tender texture that can rival more expensive cuts. Just be sure to not overcook it, as it can become tough if not cooked properly.

Next time you’re in the mood for a steak dinner, give the sirloin tip steak a chance. Its versatility, affordability, and tenderness make it a great alternative to other cuts, and its delicious flavor will leave you wanting more.

Chuck Steak

When it comes to a satisfying and flavorful steak, nothing beats sinking your teeth into a juicy chuck steak. This cut of meat comes from the shoulder area of the cow and is known for its rich, beefy flavor. It also contains a good amount of marbling, which makes it perfect for grilling or braising.

One thing to keep in mind when cooking chuck steak is that it can be tough if not cooked properly. To ensure a tender cut of meat, it’s important to cook it low and slow. This means either cooking it in a slow cooker or braising it in the oven with some liquid for several hours.

The result will be a melt-in-your-mouth steak that’s bursting with flavor. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to flank steak, chuck steak is a great option. It’s usually less expensive than other cuts of beef, but still delivers on taste and tenderness.

So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, consider picking up a chuck steak and trying out a new recipe. You won’t be disappointed!

Tri-Tip Steak

If you’re a steak enthusiast, you’ll love the distinct flavor and tenderness of a tri-tip cut, which can be easily grilled to perfection. This cut is taken from the bottom sirloin and is triangular in shape, hence the name ‘tri-tip’.

Here are some reasons why you should give this cut a try:

• Versatility: Tri-tip can be prepared in a variety of ways. You can marinate it, season it with your favorite rub, or simply salt and pepper it before grilling. It can also be roasted in the oven or cooked on a stovetop.

• Flavor: The marbling in this cut gives it a rich, beefy flavor that is enhanced by grilling. When cooked properly, it is tender and juicy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any barbecue or dinner party.

• Affordability: Compared to other premium cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, tri-tip is more affordable and readily available. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious steak dinner with family and friends.

If you’re looking for a flavorful and tender alternative to flank steak, tri-tip is definitely worth a try. Its versatility, rich flavor, and affordability make it a great choice for any occasion.

So, fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a delicious steak dinner!

Flap Meat

Flap meat, also known as sirloin tip, is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that can be used in a variety of dishes. This cut comes from the bottom sirloin primal of the cow, and it’s typically less expensive than flank steak.

Flap meat is great for grilling, sautéing, or pan-frying, and it’s often used in stir-fries, fajitas, and tacos. One of the reasons why flap meat is so versatile is because it has a good balance of lean meat and fat. The marbling in the meat gives it a rich beef flavor, while the lean meat ensures that it’s not too greasy.

Flap meat is also relatively tender, especially when cooked to medium-rare or medium. However, it’s important to slice it thinly against the grain to prevent it from being tough. If you’re looking for a delicious and affordable alternative to flank steak, flap meat is definitely worth trying.

It’s often available at butcher shops or supermarkets, and it’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re grilling it for a summer barbecue or sautéing it with vegetables for a quick weeknight dinner, flap meat is a great choice for any meat lover.