What To Know
- But mastering how to grill blade steak requires a little extra attention to ensure a juicy and delicious outcome.
- Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
- Marinating the blade steak in a flavorful mixture of acids (like vinegar or lemon juice) and enzymes (like pineapple juice or papaya) can help to break down the tough muscle fibers.
Blade steak, often overlooked for its tougher cousins, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. When cooked right, this cut delivers a surprisingly tender and flavorful experience. But mastering how to grill blade steak requires a little extra attention to ensure a juicy and delicious outcome. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the perfect cut to achieving that perfect sear and achieving a melt-in-your-mouth result.
Selecting the Right Blade Steak
The key to a great grilled blade steak is starting with the right cut. Look for a blade steak that’s well-marbled, meaning it has streaks of fat throughout. This fat will render during cooking, adding flavor and keeping the meat moist.
- Thickness: Aim for a steak that’s at least 1 inch thick. This will allow for even cooking and prevent the steak from drying out.
- Color: The steak should have a bright red color, indicating freshness.
- Texture: The meat should feel firm and springy to the touch. Avoid any steaks that feel mushy or have a slimy texture.
Preparing the Blade Steak for Grilling
Once you’ve selected the perfect blade steak, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. This involves a few simple steps:
1. Trim excess fat: While marbling is key, excess fat can lead to uneven cooking and flare-ups on the grill. Use a sharp knife to trim away any large pieces of fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor.
2. Season generously: Blade steak benefits from a good seasoning. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or chili powder.
3. Let the steak rest: After seasoning, allow the steak to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
Grilling the Blade Steak to Perfection
Now it’s time for the main event: grilling the blade steak. Here’s how to achieve that perfect sear and juicy texture:
1. Preheat the grill: For best results, preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 450°F).
2. Oil the grill grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Sear the steak: Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
4. Reduce heat: After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low (around 300°F).
5. Continue cooking: Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure accurate doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Here’s a guide to internal temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium-rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Medium-well: 150°F
- Well-done: 160°F
7. Rest the steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Techniques for Taming the Toughness
Blade steak, while flavorful, can be a bit tougher than other cuts. Here are some tips to ensure a tender outcome:
- Marinating: Marinating the blade steak in a flavorful mixture of acids (like vinegar or lemon juice) and enzymes (like pineapple juice or papaya) can help to break down the tough muscle fibers.
- Tenderizing: Using a meat tenderizer can also help to break down the tough fibers and make the steak more tender.
- Slow cooking: If you have time, you can slow cook the blade steak in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. This method allows the meat to break down and become incredibly tender.
Serving the Grilled Blade Steak
Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice and serve. Here are some ideas for serving grilled blade steak:
- Classic: Serve the steak with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- Elevated: Elevate your meal with a rich red wine sauce, chimichurri sauce, or a creamy béarnaise sauce.
- Sandwich: Slice the steak thinly and serve it on a crusty roll with your favorite toppings, like cheese, onions, and peppers.
The Final Bite: A Delicious Conclusion
Mastering how to grill blade steak is an adventure in itself. This cut, often overlooked, can deliver a surprisingly rewarding experience when treated with care and attention. By selecting the right cut, preparing it properly, and applying the right grilling techniques, you can unlock the hidden potential of blade steak and enjoy a truly delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some alternative cuts to blade steak that are similar in flavor and texture?
A: Other flavorful and relatively affordable cuts that share similarities with blade steak include chuck steak, flat iron steak, and skirt steak.
Q: Can I grill blade steak on a gas grill?
A: Yes, you can grill blade steak on a gas grill. Just make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions as for a charcoal grill.
Q: How long should I marinate the blade steak?
A: Marinate the blade steak for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2-4 hours. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled blade steak?
A: Grilled blade steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, grilled corn on the cob, and potato salad.
Q: What can I do with leftover grilled blade steak?
A: Leftover grilled blade steak can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, tacos, or burritos.
