Are you tired of the same old grilling options? Why not try something new and exciting? If you want a cut of meat bursting with flavor, look no further than pork flank steaks. These affordable cuts are packed with taste and cook up quickly, making them the perfect choice for those busy weeknights.
Key Takeaways
Unleashing the Flavor of Pork Flank Steak
When you think of pork flank steak, you might wonder what sets it apart from other cuts of meat. To put it simply, it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. With more taste than your average beef steak, these pork flank steaks are a culinary delight.
While shopping for these cuts, you might come across different names. Sometimes, they are labeled as pork blade steak, pork collar steak, or pork collar. Regardless of the name, these steaks are taken from the top shoulder and neck of the pig. These areas have abundant fat marbling, resulting in juicy and tender steaks once cooked.
A Cut Above the Rest
Butchers often take the Boston butt cut from the same area of the pig and slice the pork flanks from it. These thinly sliced steaks, cut against the grain, deliver a delightful texture and mouthwatering taste. While they have long been popular in the St. Louis region, the rest of the country is now discovering their incredible cooking potential.
Cutting Your Own Pork Flank Steaks
Can’t find pork flank steaks at your local grocery store or butcher? Fret not! You can easily cut them yourself. All you need is a boneless Boston butt and a sharp knife. Slice the Boston butt against the grain into one-inch thick steaks, and you’re ready to go.
The Art of Cooking Pork Flank Steaks
Preparing pork flank steaks is a breeze. Whether you choose to pan-sear or grill them, you don’t need to do much. However, marinating the meat or using a steak rub can elevate the flavor to new heights. For an unforgettable taste, we recommend trying the Gustus Vitae Hickory Smoked Pork Rub, which adds the perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.
Cooking the steaks evenly only takes a few minutes per side. Afterward, let them rest for three minutes before checking the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for perfectly cooked pork flanks is 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Our Go-To Pork Flank Steak Recipe
Over the years, we’ve tried countless pork flank steak recipes and finally found our ultimate favorite. Today, we’re thrilled to share it with you. Presenting our mouthwatering Barbecued Pork Flank Steak recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs of pork flank steaks
- 32 oz of light beer – divided
- 3 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp onion powder
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- 8 oz barbecue sauce
- 8 oz apple juice
Directions:
- Place the pork flank steaks in a bag or covered container. Pour 24 ounces of light beer over the steaks and marinate for at least one hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Preheat your grill to low heat.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Press the spice rub firmly into both sides of the pork flank steaks, ensuring complete coverage.
- Grill the steaks for 12 minutes on each side, basting with the remaining 8 ounces of light beer as necessary.
- Brush one side with barbecue sauce and grill for an additional 5 minutes. Flip over, add barbecue sauce to the other side, and grill for another 5 minutes.
- Serve with extra barbecue sauce.
This recipe serves 6 people, guaranteeing a delightful feast for family and friends.
The Allure of Pork Flank Steak
Now that you’re familiar with the wonders of pork flank steak, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure. Head out and see if you can find these flavor-packed cuts at your local store. Don’t worry if you can’t – just grab a sharp knife and transform a Boston butt into your own tantalizing steaks. Whether you choose to pan-sear or grill them, savor every bite of these scrumptious meals.
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