WHAT IS A FLAT IRON STEAK?
The flat iron steak, cut from the shoulder, is a flavorful steak that boasts a rich marbling and robust beefy taste that rivals its pricier counterparts. Its name, derived from its resemblance to a flat iron, belies the tender and succulent experience it offers when cooked with care. Season it generously, sear it to perfection, and savor each juicy, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
WHERE ITS LOCATED ON THE ANIMAL
The flat iron steak is located in the beef chuck primal, specifically from the shoulder area of the cow. It is cut from the top blade muscle, which is part of the chuck subprimal.
HOW TO COOK A FLAT IRON
1st way: Stovetop
- Sear both sides of your flat iron steak in a cast iron pan on Med High Heat
- Once you are happy with the sear (3-5 mins), check for an internal temp of 130 degrees, pull and let rest.
2nd way: Grill
- Get a nice sear on your flat iron over direct heat
- Once you are happy with the sear (3-5 mins), transfer to the “cold side of the grill” or non-direct heat to finish to desired temperature (if needed, shouldn’t be very long)
- Pro Tip: Raise your steak 3-4 inches from your charcoal grill if your coals are too hot. This will give you a slower cook and less char on the steak.
PREFERRED TEMP TO COOK A FLAT IRON
For a Rare Flat Iron: 115-120 internal temp
For a Med Rare Flat Iron: 125-130 degrees
For a Med Flat Iron: 135-140 degrees (we prefer about 130 degrees)
For a Med-Well Flat Iron: 145-150 (will still be tender!)
NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE FLAT IRON
- It’s the second most tender cut in the animal, behind the tenderloin
- It’s a great cut for folks who like their steaks med-well because even though its cooked longer, it will still be tender
- If you order a whole Flat Iron (or blade steak) from a butcher shop, you need to realize there is a big piece of sinew that runs through the middle.
- You need to separate the two sides and remover the sinew before you can cut your steaks.
WHERE TO GET A FLAT IRON IN SEATTLE?
Are you looking to buy a Flat Iron steak in Seattle? Visit our West Seattle Butcher Shop at http://www.LJmeats.com!
You can also pick up your monthly meat box at our West Seattle Restaurant.
