How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak Medium Rare

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is a Tomahawk Steak?
3. Best Cooking Methods for a Tomahawk Steak
4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking a Tomahawk Steak Medium Rare
5. Tips for Seasoning and Serving
6. Suggested Sides and Pairings
7. Conclusion
8. FAQs

Introduction

Picture this: a lavish steak, thick and juicy, with a long bone protruding like a work of art. The tomahawk steak, often dubbed the "meat lollipop," is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a culinary experience that brings the flavors of meat to new heights. Originating from the rib section of the cow, this bone-in ribeye steak commands attention with its impressive size and marbling, making it a favorite for both casual barbecues and gourmet dinners.

Cooking a tomahawk steak can seem daunting, given its size and the precision required to achieve the perfect medium-rare doneness, but fear not! This guide will take you through each step, ensuring that you master the art of cooking this magnificent cut of beef. By the end, you’ll not only know how to cook a tomahawk steak medium rare but also feel confident in your ability to impress family and friends with your culinary prowess.

In this blog post, we will cover the following aspects:

• Understanding what a tomahawk steak is
• The best cooking methods for a tomahawk steak
• Step-by-step instructions for cooking a tomahawk steak medium rare
• Tips for seasoning and resting the steak
• Suggestions for sides and pairings that complement this magnificent cut of meat

So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, let’s dive into the world of tomahawk steaks and elevate your grilling game!

What is a Tomahawk Steak?

The tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye steak that has been frenched, meaning the long bone has been cleaned of meat and fat to create a dramatic presentation. Typically, these steaks are at least 2 inches thick and can weigh anywhere from 2 to 4 pounds, making them a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.

The Anatomy of a Tomahawk Steak

• Bone Structure: The long bone adds flavor during cooking and serves as a handle for easy serving. It also helps insulate the meat, keeping it tender.
• Marbling: The fat interspersed within the muscle tissue enhances the flavor and juiciness of the steak as it cooks, leading to a rich, buttery taste.
• Thickness: The steak’s thickness necessitates specific cooking techniques, particularly the reverse sear method, to achieve even cooking throughout without overcooking the exterior.

Sourcing Your Tomahawk Steak

When it comes to sourcing a quality tomahawk steak, look for reputable butchers or local farms. Land and Sea Delivery offers a selection of premium beef products, including tomahawk steaks, conveniently delivered to your door. This ensures that you receive fresh and high-quality meat, perfect for your culinary adventures.

Explore their beef collection here: Land and Sea Delivery Beef Collection.

Best Cooking Methods for a Tomahawk Steak

While there are various ways to cook a tomahawk steak, the two most popular methods are grilling and sous vide. Each has its advantages, but both can yield delicious results when done correctly.

Grilling

Grilling is perhaps the most traditional method for cooking a tomahawk steak. This method imparts a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks, enhancing the overall presentation.

Reverse Sear Method

This technique involves cooking the steak slowly at a low temperature and then searing it at high heat. It’s particularly effective for thick cuts like the tomahawk.

1. Low and Slow: Start by preheating your grill to a low temperature (around 225°F). This allows for gentle cooking and ensures that the inside reaches the desired doneness without overcooking the outside.
2. Searing: Once the steak reaches about 100°F internally, remove it from the grill and let it rest while you increase the grill temperature to around 450-500°F. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side to develop a crust.

Sous Vide

Sous vide is a modern cooking method that involves vacuum-sealing the steak and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature. This technique guarantees even cooking and retains moisture, making it an excellent choice for achieving the perfect medium-rare steak.

1. Preparation: Season the steak with salt and vacuum-seal it in a bag.
2. Cooking: Set your sous vide machine to 129°F (for medium-rare) and cook the steak for 2-4 hours.
3. Searing: After sous vide cooking, quickly sear the steak on a hot grill or in a cast-iron pan for 1-2 minutes per side.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking a Tomahawk Steak Medium Rare

Step 1: Preparing the Steak

Before you cook, ensure your tomahawk steak is completely thawed if it was frozen. For the best results, remove the steak from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.

1. Seasoning: Pat the steak dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with kosher salt. For added flavor, consider using freshly cracked black pepper or a steak rub of your choice.

Step 2: Cooking the Steak

For Grilling

1. Set Up Your Grill: If using charcoal, light the coals and let them ash over. Arrange them on one side of the grill to create a two-zone cooking area.
2. Indirect Cooking: Place the seasoned tomahawk steak on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. Close the lid and let it cook slowly, flipping every 5-10 minutes.
3. Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for about 95-100°F before moving on to the searing step.

For Sous Vide

1. Sous Vide Setup: Fill a container with water and set your sous vide machine to 129°F for medium-rare.
2. Cook: Submerge the sealed steak in the water bath and cook for 2-4 hours.
3. Searing: After sous vide cooking, pat the steak dry and sear it on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.

Step 3: Resting the Steak

Once you’ve achieved an internal temperature of 130°F, remove the steak from the heat. Tent it with foil and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. Resting is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Searing the Steak (If Grilling)

1. Increase Heat: If you grilled the steak, now is the time to crank up the grill temperature to high heat.
2. Sear the Steak: Place the steak directly over the high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until a rich, caramelized crust forms.

Tips for Seasoning and Serving

• Seasoning Options: Besides salt and pepper, consider using garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak rub to enhance flavors.
• Finishing Touch: For a delicious finishing touch, melt a tablespoon of butter with garlic and herbs, then pour it over the sliced steak just before serving.
• Slicing: When ready to serve, slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Suggested Sides and Pairings

Pair your perfectly cooked tomahawk steak with sides that complement its rich flavor. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes provide a perfect contrast to the hearty steak.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add freshness and color to your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, parmesan, and croutons is a classic pairing.
• Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the steak's flavor and richness.

Conclusion

Cooking a tomahawk steak medium rare is not just about the meat; it’s about the experience of preparing a meal that celebrates quality ingredients and culinary techniques. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your guests and indulging in one of the most luxurious cuts of beef available.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Each time you cook a tomahawk steak, you’ll gain more confidence and refine your technique. Whether you choose to grill or sous vide, the key is to monitor the temperature and let your steak rest before slicing.

For your tomahawk steak needs, don’t forget to check out the premium beef selection at Land and Sea Delivery and take advantage of their home delivery service for ultimate convenience: Home Delivery.

FAQs

What is the best way to check the doneness of a tomahawk steak?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F.

How long should I let a tomahawk steak rest?

Let the steak rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak.

Can I cook a tomahawk steak in the oven?

Yes, you can cook a tomahawk steak in the oven by searing it first in a cast-iron skillet and then finishing it in the oven at a high temperature until it reaches your desired doneness.

How do I store leftover tomahawk steak?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to retain moisture.

What are some good sides to serve with a tomahawk steak?

Consider pairing your tomahawk steak with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.