What To Know
- A sharp cheddar, such as an aged cheddar, will add a nutty and tangy punch to flank steak, while a milder cheddar will provide a creamy and comforting touch.
- A semi-hard cheese with a mild and nutty flavor, provolone is a versatile choice that pairs well with various flank steak preparations.
- Keep a close eye on the cheese and remove the flank steak from the heat as soon as the cheese has melted.
The perfect steak deserves the perfect accompaniment, and when it comes to flank steaks, cheese is an indispensable ingredient that can elevate the taste experience to new heights. With a wide array of cheeses available, selecting the best cheese for flank steaks can be a delightful adventure. Join us as we embark on a culinary quest to discover the most delectable cheese pairings that will transform your flank steak meals into unforgettable gastronomic masterpieces.
The Characteristics of Flank Steak
Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that benefits from marinating and cooking methods that tenderize the meat. Its robust beefy flavor and slight chewiness make it an ideal candidate for grilled, roasted, or seared preparations. When selecting cheese for flank steak, consider the following characteristics:
- Sharpness: A tangy or sharp cheese can cut through the richness of the steak and provide a refreshing contrast.
- Creaminess: A creamy cheese will add a velvety texture and balance the chewiness of the flank steak.
- Melting point: Choose a cheese that melts well, creating a flavorful sauce that coats the steak.
Top 5 Cheese Pairings for Flank Steak
1. Blue Cheese
The pungent and salty flavors of blue cheese, such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola, provide a bold and assertive complement to flank steak. The cheese’s sharpness balances the steak’s richness, while its creamy texture melts into a luscious sauce.
2. Cheddar
A classic and versatile cheese, cheddar offers a range of flavors from mild to sharp. A sharp cheddar, such as an aged cheddar, will add a nutty and tangy punch to flank steak, while a milder cheddar will provide a creamy and comforting touch.
3. Gruyère
With its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Gruyère is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subtle cheese pairing. Its creamy texture melts smoothly, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the steak.
4. Feta
The tangy and crumbly texture of feta cheese brings a unique freshness to flank steak. Its salty and slightly acidic flavor complements the beefy taste of the steak, creating a balanced and refreshing combination.
5. Provolone
A semi-hard cheese with a mild and nutty flavor, provolone is a versatile choice that pairs well with various flank steak preparations. Its smooth texture melts well, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
How to Use Cheese with Flank Steak
- Marinade: Enhance the flavor of flank steak by marinating it in a mixture of cheese, herbs, and spices.
- Topping: Top grilled or roasted flank steak with melted cheese for a decadent and flavorful topping.
- Filling: Stuff flank steak with cheese and other fillings for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Sauce: Create a flavorful sauce by melting cheese and adding it to the pan juices from the steak.
Tips for Choosing the Best Cheese
- Consider the overall flavor profile of the dish when selecting cheese.
- Experiment with different cheeses to find the combination that best suits your taste preferences.
- Opt for high-quality cheeses that are well-aged and have a rich flavor.
- Purchase cheese from a reputable cheese shop or deli for the best selection and freshness.
Takeaways: A Symphony of Flavors
Pairing flank steak with cheese is an art form that allows you to create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. By selecting the perfect cheese and incorporating it into your cooking, you can transform your flank steak meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. So, embark on this culinary adventure, experiment with different cheeses, and discover the perfect pairing that will make your flank steaks shine.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the best way to melt cheese on flank steak?
A: Sprinkle shredded or sliced cheese over the cooked flank steak and broil or grill until melted and bubbly.
Q: Can I use processed cheese for flank steak?
A: While processed cheese can be used, it does not have the same rich flavor and texture as natural cheese.
Q: How can I prevent the cheese from burning when grilling or broiling?
A: Keep a close eye on the cheese and remove the flank steak from the heat as soon as the cheese has melted.
