What To Know
- Once the steak is almost cooked through, move it to the high heat side of the grill for a final sear, creating a delicious crust.
- For a more controlled cooking method, pan-sear the steak in a cast iron skillet.
- For a more hands-off approach, roast the steak in the oven at a low temperature.
The tomahawk steak, with its impressive bone-in presentation and succulent marbling, is a true showstopper. But to make this culinary masterpiece shine, you need to know how to grill it perfectly. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from selecting the right cut to achieving that coveted crust and juicy interior.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
The first step to grilling a perfect tomahawk steak is selecting the right cut. Here’s what to look for:
- Bone-in Ribeye: The tomahawk steak is essentially a bone-in ribeye, but with a longer bone for visual impact.
- Marbling: Look for a steak with good marbling, which translates to rich flavor and tenderness.
- Thickness: Aim for a steak that’s at least 1.5 inches thick, allowing for even cooking.
- Freshness: Choose a steak that’s fresh, with a bright red color and no signs of discoloration or odor.
Prepping the Tomahawk Steak
Once you have your chosen tomahawk steak, it’s time to prep it for grilling:
- Pat Dry: Gently pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Seasoning: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, according to your preference.
- Rest: Allow the steak to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. This will help it cook more evenly.
Setting Up Your Grill
A hot grill is essential for achieving a beautiful sear and juicy interior. Here’s how to set up your grill:
- Preheating: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to high heat, around 500-550°F.
- Cleaning: Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any debris.
- Direct Heat: For a tomahawk steak, use direct heat. This means the steak will be placed directly over the heat source.
Grilling the Tomahawk Steak
Now comes the exciting part: grilling the tomahawk steak. Follow these steps for a perfect result:
- Grilling Time: Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
- Rotating: For even cooking, rotate the steak 90 degrees halfway through grilling.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F.
- Resting: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Mastering the Reverse Sear Technique
For a truly exceptional tomahawk steak, consider using the reverse sear technique. This method involves:
- Low and Slow: Start by grilling the steak over low heat (around 250-300°F) for a longer period, ensuring even cooking.
- High Heat Finish: Once the steak is almost cooked through, move it to the high heat side of the grill for a final sear, creating a delicious crust.
Sauces and Sides for Your Tomahawk Steak
A perfectly grilled tomahawk steak deserves equally delicious accompaniments:
- Sauces: Consider a classic béarnaise sauce, a rich chimichurri, or a tangy balsamic reduction.
- Sides: Complement the steak with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
The Grand Finale: Serving Your Tomahawk Steak
After all the effort, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here’s how to serve your tomahawk steak with panache:
- Presentation: Slice the steak against the grain, revealing the beautiful marbling and juicy interior.
- Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a touch of elegance.
- Sharing: A tomahawk steak is perfect for sharing, making it a centerpiece for any special occasion.
Beyond the Grill: Other Ways to Cook Tomahawk Steak
While grilling is the most popular method, there are other ways to cook a tomahawk steak:
- Pan-Searing: For a more controlled cooking method, pan-sear the steak in a cast iron skillet.
- Oven-Roasting: For a more hands-off approach, roast the steak in the oven at a low temperature.
The Tomahawk Steak: A Culinary Triumph
Grilling a tomahawk steak is an experience that combines culinary skill, presentation, and pure enjoyment. By following these tips and techniques, you can elevate your grilling game and create a truly memorable dining experience.
What People Want to Know
Q: How long should I grill a tomahawk steak for medium-rare?
A: The grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. However, as a general guideline, grill a tomahawk steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Q: What is the best way to prevent the bone from burning?
A: To prevent the bone from burning, you can wrap the bone in aluminum foil. This will help to protect the bone and prevent it from becoming too charred.
Q: Can I cook a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill?
A: Yes, you can cook a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill. Just make sure to preheat the charcoal grill to high heat and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Q: What is the best way to store a tomahawk steak?
A: Store a tomahawk steak in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the steak for up to 3 months.
