Beef | Ketogenic Paleo Gluten Free High Protein

Flank Steak

Bos taurus Allergen-Free
Flank Steak

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Not applicable (animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Western (particularly North American, Latin American)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cattle

The Forktionary Angle

"The marinade maestro, a lean cut that transforms with proper technique into tender, intensely flavorful meals."

Definition

A lean cut of beef from the abdominal muscles, known for its strong beefy flavor and coarse grain, ideal for grilling or broiling when sliced against the grain.

Sensory Profile

TasteBeefy, Savory, Umami
TextureFirm, Chewy (if not sliced correctly), Muscular
AromaMeaty, Roasted (when cooked)
AcidityNeutral

Technical Metrics

Ideal Cooking Method

Grilling, broiling, pan-searing quickly to medium-rare.

Marinade Absorption

Excellent absorption due to its loose muscle structure.

Muscle Structure

Long, coarse muscle fibers, requiring slicing against the grain for tenderness.

Nutrition Facts

Per 85 g (3 oz)
Calories182 kcal
Total Fat7 g
Saturated Fat2.5 g
Trans Fat0.2 g
Cholesterol80 mg
Protein28.5 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium15 mg
Iron2.5 mg
Potassium350 mg

Chef’s Secret

Always slice flank steak *against* the grain at a sharp angle after resting. This shortens the muscle fibers, making it significantly more tender.

Substitutions

Best Match

Skirt Steak

1:1

Very similar cut from diaphragm, slightly tougher, excellent for fajitas.

Sirloin Steak

1:1

Lean, flavorful, more tender than flank, suitable for grilling/pan-searing.

Hanger Steak

1:1

Rich beefy flavor, tender if cooked medium-rare, often called 'butcher's cut'.

Flat Iron Steak

1:1

Very tender, well-marbled, excellent for quick grilling, similar cooking needs.

Buying Guide

Look for a deep red color and minimal marbling. Choose a piece that is relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Flavor Pairings

Chimichurri red wine roasted vegetables mashed potatoes green salad.

Recipes Using Flank Steak

Pork Main Dish Savory Soups Stews

Ajiaco Cubano

Embark on a culinary journey through time with this authentic Ajiaco Cubano recipe! This hearty Cuban stew, a true reflection of Cuba's rich and diverse heritage, is a celebration of flavors from Indigenous roots to Spanish, African, and Chinese influences. Fernando Ortiz famously described Cuban cuisine as a 'mestizaje'—a vibrant blend of cultures—and this Ajiaco embodies that spirit perfectly. Imagine tender chunks of affordable, Cuban-style cut meat simmering alongside a medley of indigenous root vegetables like potatoes, yuca, malanga, and sweet potatoes, enhanced by the sweetness of pumpkin and turnip, and a hint of exotic spices. This isn't just a meal; it's a story told through every delicious bite. Learn the secrets passed down through generations, from 1925 cookbooks to modern Cuban kitchens, and create a dish that's both comforting and historically significant. Serve with crusty bread and fresh fruit for a truly authentic Cuban experience.

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Steaks Main Ingredient High In Something Very Low Carbs

Alberta Flank Steak

Experience the ultimate Canadian BBQ with this mouthwatering Alberta Flank Steak recipe! Marinated to perfection in a savory soy-wine blend, then grilled to juicy tenderness, this recipe is a flavour explosion. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a special weeknight dinner.

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Oven Preparation Oven Grilling

Alexa's Cilantro Ginger Flank Steak

This unbelievably flavorful Cilantro-Ginger Flank Steak recipe is a game-changer! A coworker's secret, this simple recipe delivers incredible results whether grilled or broiled. The vibrant marinade, bursting with cilantro and ginger, is amazing on all meats – even chicken or pork! Get ready for tender, juicy steak with a zesty kick. Prep time includes a minimum 1-hour marinade (but overnight is even better!).

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Presentation Low Carb Time To Make Course

Argentine Grilled Flank Steak

Experience the sizzling flavors of Argentina with this mouthwatering grilled flank steak recipe! Brought back from a honeymoon in Argentina, this simple yet impressive dish requires only minimal prep and delivers maximum taste. The secret lies in an 8-hour marinade (inactive prep time) that infuses the steak with incredible depth. Perfectly charred on the outside and juicy on the inside, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. Leftovers make amazing sandwiches or salads!

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Beef Beef Main Ingredient Course

Argentine Style Stuffed Flank Steak

Experience the rich flavors of Argentina with this incredible stuffed flank steak recipe! Perfectly tender and bursting with savory goodness, this show-stopping dish is easier to make than you think. Marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and herbs, then generously stuffed with prosciutto, spinach, and a medley of vegetables, this impressive centerpiece is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey!

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Very Low Carbs Meat Low Carb Very Low Carbs

Argentinian Grilled Flank Steak With Chimichurri Sauce

Sizzle into summer with this vibrant Argentinian Grilled Flank Steak recipe! Our simple grilling technique and zesty, herb-packed chimichurri sauce transform a humble flank steak into a culinary masterpiece. Inspired by Cook's Illustrated's 2009 summer grilling issue, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for juicy, flavorful steak and a sauce that will have you licking your fingers!

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Main Dish Grilling 15 Minutes Or Less Easy

Asian Marinated Flank Steak

Elevate your weeknight dinner or camping menu with this flavorful Asian Marinated Flank Steak! Inspired by Sunset Magazine, this recipe features a vibrant marinade that's perfect for beef, chicken, or salmon. Tender, juicy, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors, this recipe is quick to prep and incredibly delicious. Make it ahead and freeze for an easy OAMC (One-Minute-Ahead-Meal) option. Skip the ground ginger – fresh is key!

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Main Ingredient Equipment Dietary Steak

Asian Style Flank Steak

Experience a flavor explosion with this quick and easy Asian-style flank steak recipe! Perfectly broiled flank steak is coated in a luscious honey-ginger-soy glaze, creating a tender and savory dish ready in under 30 minutes. Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality meal.

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Cuisine Appetizers 15 Minutes Or Less Beef

Asian Wraps

Transform leftover flank or brisket into delicious Asian wraps! This 5-minute recipe features crisp lettuce, refreshing cucumbers, crunchy bean sprouts, and savory scallions, all nestled in soft wraps and drizzled with a delectable peanut sauce (recipe #63211 or your favorite!). Perfect as a satisfying lunch or cut into 1-inch rounds for impressive appetizers. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dinner Party Preparation Equipment Course

Balsamic Beer Flank Steak

Elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering Balsamic Beer Flank Steak! Perfectly tender and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption, then grill to juicy perfection. Serve alongside a refreshing green salad and your favorite rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for an explosion of balsamic sweetness and beeriness!

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Main Ingredient Course

Barbara's Flank Steak Dinner

This irresistible flank steak dinner, inspired by Michele Urvater's 'Monday to Friday Cookbook,' became a crowd favorite after friends clamored for 'Barbara's' recipe! Enjoy perfectly seared, thinly sliced flank steak served over vibrant sauteed vegetables and fluffy rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and even reheats beautifully for a delicious lunch the next day. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Main Dish Cuisine Low Calorie Time To Make

Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry

Experience the vibrant flavors of this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, a Bon Appétit-inspired recipe! This quick and easy stir-fry delivers tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli in a savory, mouthwatering sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for an explosion of taste in under an hour!

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Technique Beef Low In Something Main Dish

Beef And Scallops

Experience a whirlwind of flavor with this incredibly quick and easy Beef and Scallops Stir-Fry! Perfectly seared beef and succulent scallops dance in a vibrant, light sauce – no heavy saucing here! Serve this restaurant-quality dish over fluffy rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

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60 Minutes Or Less Healthy Beginner Cook Inexpensive

Beef Tomato Chow Yuk

Experience the sizzling flavors of Beef Tomato Chow Yuk! This quick and easy recipe delivers tender beef in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is bursting with fresh vegetables and a delightful sweet and tangy taste. Get ready to impress your family with this authentic Asian-inspired stir-fry.

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Asian Main Dish Course One Dish Meal

Beef With Cabbage And Mushrooms

This quick and easy Beef with Cabbage and Mushrooms stir-fry is ready in just 25 minutes! Tender flank steak is paired with crisp-tender cabbage and earthy mushrooms in a savory soy sauce glaze. Serve this delicious dish on its own, over fluffy rice, or alongside your favorite noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Meat Beef Chinese Asian

Beef With Fresh Asparagus

This vibrant Beef with Fresh Asparagus stir-fry recipe delivers a burst of umami and fresh spring flavors. Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this dish is easily customizable to your spice preference. Tender beef marinated in a savory soy sauce mixture is perfectly complemented by crisp-tender asparagus and carrots. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

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Dietary Low Carb 30 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Beer Soaked Flank Steak

This incredibly juicy and flavorful beer-soaked flank steak recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Marinated to perfection in a zesty beer marinade (recipe below), this steak grills up quickly to tender perfection. Cut against the grain for unbelievably tender slices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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