Fraldinha
◈ Community SuggestedA cut popular in Brazilian churrasco, from the lower belly/flank area. Known for its flavour and fat content. One of the most beloved cuts at a churrascaria.
Lower abdominal area. In Brazilian butchery, fraldinha is a distinct section that may not map exactly to flank steak.
Local Names by Country
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Also known as: Vazio
A distinctly popular cut in Brazilian churrasco. The exact muscle may differ slightly from US flank steak.
Vacío
Argentine equivalent. Central to asado culture. Slightly different trim than Brazilian fraldinha.
Equivalent Cuts in Other Countries
Equivalences are approximate. Regional butchery variation means these are community-suggested matches, not exact definitions.
Both are from the lower belly area but Brazilian butchery tradition creates a different portion than the US flank steak.
Recipes
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Cultural Notes
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Brazil
Fraldinha (literally "little diaper" in Portuguese, a reference to its shape) is one of the most beloved cuts at a Brazilian churrasco, though it was historically considered a secondary cut. As churrasco culture grew internationally, so did appreciation for the fraldinha's rich marbling and bold flavour. It is often compared to flank steak by international visitors, though Brazilian butchers will note the cuts are not identical. The fraldinha debate — whether it is best grilled fast or slow — is a lively topic at any Brazilian barbecue.
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