There are many differences between the names flank steak vs skirt steak. The only real difference is in the preparation. Both are beef. The only difference is in the cut. But what's so different about them? This article will discuss all of the similarities and differences between the two steaks.
There is one major difference between the two that has to do with flavor. In general, flavor is cooked off in the cooking of Flank Steak. Skirt steak is often included in large numbers in stir fry dishes. The reason for this is because, like flank steak, skirt steak is very lean. In fact, it's lean enough that it can be used in stir fry dishes, but it will usually not cook very well.
Another difference between the two is in the preparation. Skirt steak is usually cut into small pieces before being simmered. This allows for maximum flavors to be extracted from it. Typically, this cut of steak is added at the end of the cooking process. The cooking of the skirt steak vs flank steak is what sets it apart from other cuts of meat.
Flank is the opposite of skirt steak in this regard. Skirt is cut straight across and the grain is cut into strips rather than individual slices. When flank is cooked, the individual grains of meat tend to soak up a lot of flavor. If you add too much, it can prevent the meat from being cooked to its full extent.
Another difference is in the marinade. Many people prefer a thicker marinade with more butter or oils in it. The same rules apply as with skirt steak; a thicker marinade gives more flavor and more moisture to the cuts. Try to use a marinade which is designed for the thinner cuts of meat like flank.
Of course, there is also the cut of beef and the cook. Each of these has it's own quirks when it comes to preparing and cooking. If you are going to cook flank, you may find that it works best if you marinate the meat overnight. It will soak up the flavor overnight and help bring out the natural texture of the meat. When you do marinate, try using a cut of flank that is firm and does not have a lot of texture.
Also, remember that when it comes to flavor, you can't go too heavy on the wine. A dry rub made with olive oil, soy sauce and white pepper is perfect for this dish. Using a dry rub will add the perfect seasoning and help to draw out the natural flavors of the flank steak. Don't be afraid to mix in your favorite seasonings for that extra touch.
Lastly, let the steak cook. flank steak is very flavorful, but it is also fairly lean. This is why you want to keep an eye on the internal temperature of your steak. The rare steaks will take the longest to reach the proper temperature, and will usually be the most tender. Leaving the steak in the pan for too long will also lead to losing some of the flavor. When in doubt, remove it from the pan and add a thin layer of oil to help preserve the tenderness.
Once the steak has reached the proper temperature, you will want to create an easy to manage marinade. A simple marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, white pepper, cumin, garlic, shallots, dry mustard, and a quarter cup of dry mustard is perfect. This simple marinade will help to draw out any juices from the beef, as well as to help give it that nice, even color. To help enhance the flavor of the marinade, you may consider adding a spicy chili sauce or dried fruit.
Finally, you will want to separate the steak from its bones and allow it to rest for about five minutes. This will help release the juices that are within the rib cage and also help you to ensure that the steak is very tender and moist throughout. To prepare the ribs, simply cut the steak into single pieces. Place one piece into each rack of the refrigerator while the rest will sit at room temperature.
Although flank steaks and skirt steak are both great ways to add protein to your diet, there is a noticeable difference in their taste. While skirt steak can have a slightly sweet flavor, flank steak is usually drier. If you are planning to serve flank steak, you will want to make sure that the soy sauce is still warm and is not cold. If soy sauce is too cold, it will lose its nutritional benefits.
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