You Won’t Believe What Skirt Steak Is Called In These 10 Countries
What To Know
- Skirt steak is a popular choice for fajitas, a Mexican dish consisting of grilled or sautéed meat served with tortillas and toppings.
- Thinly slice the skirt steak and stir-fry it in a wok or large skillet with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
- Inside skirt steak is thinner and more tender, while outside skirt steak is thicker and has a more pronounced grain.
Skirt steak, a flavorful and versatile cut of beef, goes by various names around the world. Understanding these different monikers can help you navigate menus and butcher shops with confidence.
Alternative Names for Skirt Steak
- Arrachera (Mexico): This is the most common name for skirt steak in Mexico and other Latin American countries. It’s often marinated in flavorful sauces and grilled or pan-fried.
- Bavette (France): In France, skirt steak is known as bavette, a term derived from the French word meaning “bib.”
- Churrasco (Brazil): This term encompasses several cuts of beef, including skirt steak. Churrasco is typically grilled or roasted and served with chimichurri sauce.
- Fajita Meat (United States): Skirt steak is a popular choice for fajitas, a Mexican dish consisting of grilled or sautéed meat served with tortillas and toppings.
- Inside Skirt (United States): This refers to the inner portion of the skirt steak, which is often thinner and more tender than the outer portion.
- Outside Skirt (United States): The outer portion of the skirt steak is thicker and has a more pronounced grain.
- Philadelphia Steak (United States): This term is specifically used for thinly sliced skirt steak that is used in the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich.
Different Cuts of Skirt Steak
Skirt steak can be further classified into two main cuts:
- Whole Skirt: This is the entire muscle, including both the inside and outside portions.
- Split Skirt: The muscle is split into two halves, resulting in two thinner cuts.
Characteristics of Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is characterized by its:
- Flat, elongated shape: It resembles a skirt, hence its name.
- Strong beefy flavor: It has a rich, earthy flavor that pairs well with marinades and seasonings.
- Tough texture: Skirt steak can be tough if overcooked, but when cooked properly, it becomes tender and flavorful.
Cooking Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is best cooked using high-heat methods such as:
- Grilling: Grill skirt steak over high heat for a few minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- Pan-frying: Heat a heavy skillet over high heat and sear the skirt steak for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir-frying: Thinly slice the skirt steak and stir-fry it in a wok or large skillet with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
Marinating Skirt Steak
Marinating skirt steak helps tenderize it and enhance its flavor. Popular marinades include:
- Citrus and herb marinade: Combine lemon or lime juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices.
- Mexican marinade: Mix together orange juice, tequila, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin.
- Asian marinade: Combine soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
Serving Skirt Steak
Skirt steak can be served on its own or with various accompaniments:
- Tacos and burritos: Thinly slice the skirt steak and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Stir-fries: Thinly slice the skirt steak and stir-fry it with vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
- Sandwiches: Use thinly sliced skirt steak for sandwiches, such as the Philadelphia cheesesteak.
Summary: Unlocking the World of Skirt Steak
Skirt steak, known by its various names and cuts, is a flavorful and versatile cut of beef. By understanding its different monikers and characteristics, you can confidently navigate the world of skirt steak and enjoy its deliciousness in various dishes.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. What is the best way to cook skirt steak?
High-heat methods, such as grilling, pan-frying, or stir-frying, are recommended to cook skirt steak.
2. How do I tenderize skirt steak?
Marinating skirt steak for several hours or overnight in a flavorful marinade helps tenderize it.
3. Can skirt steak be used in tacos and burritos?
Yes, thinly sliced skirt steak is a popular filling for tacos and burritos.
4. What is the difference between inside and outside skirt steak?
Inside skirt steak is thinner and more tender, while outside skirt steak is thicker and has a more pronounced grain.
5. What are some popular marinades for skirt steak?
Citrus and herb, Mexican, and Asian marinades are all great options for flavoring skirt steak.