What To Know
- A simple salt and pepper rub is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, or even a zesty lemon-pepper blend.
- You can use a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or a grill brush.
- Once you’ve achieved the desired grill marks, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Emu steak, a lean and flavorful alternative to traditional beef, is gaining popularity for its unique taste and health benefits. But grilling emu can be a little different than your usual backyard barbecue. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to grill emu steak, from selecting the right cut to achieving perfect grill marks and juicy tenderness.
The Allure of Emu Steak
Emu meat is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting low fat, high protein, and an abundance of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Its flavor profile is often described as a cross between beef and venison, with a slightly gamey undertone. The leanness of emu meat makes it ideal for grilling, as it cooks quickly and doesn’t require heavy marinades.
Choosing the Perfect Emu Steak
When choosing emu steak, consider the cut and thickness. For grilling, a thicker cut like the tenderloin or sirloin is recommended. Look for steaks that are well-marbled, indicating good flavor and tenderness.
Prepping for Grill Success
Before you start grilling, there are a few essential steps to ensure your emu steak turns out perfectly.
1. Pat it Dry:
Pat the emu steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps to prevent steaming and ensures a nice sear.
2. Season with Savvy:
Emu meat is quite lean, so it’s important to season it generously. A simple salt and pepper rub is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, or even a zesty lemon-pepper blend.
3. Let it Rest:
Allow the seasoned emu steak to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps the meat cook more evenly.
Mastering the Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get grilling!
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). For charcoal grills, use a good quality charcoal and allow the coals to ash over for even heat distribution.
2. Grease the Grates:
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or a grill brush.
3. Place the Steak:
Place the emu steak directly over the hot part of the grill. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
4. Achieve Perfect Grill Marks:
For those iconic grill marks, cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t press down on the steak; let it sear naturally.
5. Reduce the Heat:
Once you’ve achieved the desired grill marks, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
6. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, remove the emu steak 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.
Embracing the Flavorful Possibilities
Emu steak is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of flavors. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
1. Mediterranean Medley:
Marinate the steak in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
2. Asian-Inspired Delight:
Marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Grill alongside grilled pineapple and serve with a side of steamed rice.
3. Southwestern Spice:
Marinate the steak in a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and lime juice. Serve with grilled corn on the cob, black beans, and avocado salsa.
The Emu Steak Finale: A Journey of Flavor
The final step in your emu steak journey is savoring the delicious results of your grilling expertise. Enjoy the lean, flavorful meat with your choice of sides and be sure to appreciate the unique and healthy qualities of this remarkable ingredient.
What You Need to Know
1. How long should I grill an emu steak?
The grilling time for an emu steak depends on its thickness and desired doneness. A 1-inch thick steak will generally take 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
2. Can I marinate emu steak?
Yes, marinating emu steak is a great way to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Marinades can be as simple as a salt and pepper rub or as complex as a blend of herbs, spices, and acidic ingredients.
3. What are some good side dishes for emu steak?
Emu steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes, and quinoa salad.
4. How do I know when emu steak is cooked?
The best way to determine the doneness of emu steak is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 135°F.
5. Where can I buy emu steak?
Emu steak can be found at specialty butcher shops, farmers markets, and online retailers. You can also check with local restaurants that feature emu on their menu.
