Item: Omaha Steaks Boneless Beef Sirloin Flap Steaks

What you get: Eight 6-ounce steaks

Cost: About $20

Preparation time: 10 to 22 minutes, depending on desired doneness of meat

Review: I was all ready to dismiss these premarinated steaks as overpriced and overadvertised. But then I took my first bite. I still think Omaha Steaks are too expensive for a family of regular red-meat eaters. But if you're only a casual carnivore, this is the way to go. There was just enough fat on these frozen steaks to make sure they cooked without drying out. The meat fared equally well on the grill, under the broiler and in a frying pan. The light, soy-based marinade really brought out the best in the beef. Omaha Steaks has taken the area by storm with four locations in Towson, White Marsh, Columbia and Annapolis. And if you need ideas or grilling tips, the company includes a nifty little cookbook with purchases that also offers $350 worth of coupons.

Pub Date: 10/28/98