If you're looking for a flavorful, lean cut of beef, look no further than outside skirt steak. With only 58 Calories per ounce when trimmed to 1/4" fat, it's a great choice for those watching their caloric intake. But what exactly is outside skirt steak, and how can you prepare it to maximize its nutritional benefits?

Outside skirt steak comes from the abdominal area of the cow, between the ribs and the flank. It's a long, flat cut with a lot of marbling, which adds to its rich flavor. Despite its reputation as a tough cut of meat, outside skirt steak can be deliciously tender when cooked properly. It's also high in Protein and contains vitamins and minerals like Iron, Zinc, and vitamin B12.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of outside skirt steak, different cooking methods, and tips for buying and preparing the cut to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

What is Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

Outside skirt steak is a cut of beef that comes from the abdominal area of the cow, between the ribs and flank. It's a long, flat cut with a lot of marbling, which gives it a rich, beefy flavor. Despite its reputation as a tough cut of meat, outside skirt steak can be tender and delicious when cooked properly. It's often used for fajitas, but can also be grilled, broiled, or sautéed.

How Many Calories are in 1 Oz of Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

An ounce of outside skirt steak, trimmed to 1/4" fat, contains roughly 58 Calories. This makes it a great choice for those who are watching their caloric intake but still want to enjoy a flavorful cut of beef.

What are the Nutritional Benefits of Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

Outside skirt steak is not only flavorful, but it's also packed with nutrients. A 3-ounce serving of cooked outside skirt steak contains approximately 21 grams of Protein, as well as important vitamins and minerals like Iron, Zinc, and vitamin B12. These nutrients can help with everything from building muscle to supporting immune function.

What are the Different Ways to Cook Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

There are many ways to prepare outside skirt steak, depending on your taste preferences and cooking skills. One popular method is to marinate the steak for a few hours to help tenderize it, then grill, broil, or sauté until cooked through. Another option is to slice the steak thinly against the grain and stir-fry it with vegetables for a fajita-style dish.

How Does Beef Outside Skirt Steak Compare to Other Cuts of Beef?

Although outside skirt steak is known for its rich flavor, it's not quite as tender as some other cuts of beef, like filet mignon or ribeye. However, it's still a great choice for those who prefer leaner cuts of meat. It's also more affordable than some of the more premium cuts, making it an economical choice for those on a budget.

What are Some Serving Suggestions for Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

Outside skirt steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some popular serving suggestions include slicing it thinly and serving it in fajitas or Tacos, or Grilling it and serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple salad. It's also delicious when paired with a flavorful marinade or sauce, like chimichurri or teriyaki.

Are There Any Health Concerns Associated with Eating Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

While outside skirt steak is generally considered a healthy choice, it's important to keep in mind that red meat has been linked to an increased risk of certain health issues, like heart disease and colorectal cancer. To minimize these risks, it's a good idea to enjoy red meat in moderation and pair it with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

What are the Differences Between Beef Outside and Inside Skirt Steak?

While outside and inside skirt steak come from similar areas of the cow, there are some important differences to be aware of. Outside skirt steak is longer and more tender than inside skirt steak, which tends to be tougher and chewier. Outside skirt steak is also easier to find and more widely available than inside skirt steak.

Is it Easy to Find Beef Outside Skirt Steak at the Grocery Store?

While outside skirt steak isn't as widely available as some other cuts of beef, it can often be found at specialty meat shops or high-end grocery stores. If you're having trouble finding it, try asking your local butcher or checking online for specialty meat suppliers.

What are Some Tips for Buying and Preparing Beef Outside Skirt Steak?

When buying outside skirt steak, look for a cut with a good amount of marbling and avoid any that are discolored or have a strong odor. To prepare the steak, make sure to trim any excess fat and marinate it for at least an hour to help tenderize it. When cooking, be sure to use high heat and don't overcook it, as this can make it tough and chewy.