how to cook a tomahawk steak

Best Methods for Preparing Tomahawk Steak at Home

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If you love steak, you’ve probably heard of the tomahawk steak. This cut is known for its impressive look and amazing taste. Cooking a tomahawk steak at home can make your dinner feel like a fancy restaurant meal.

Tomahawk Steak: A Grilling Warrior’s Cut

For steak lovers, few cuts stand out quite like the ribeye on the bone. This impressive cut features a unique, long bone that gives it a striking appearance, reminiscent of an axe. Its rich marbling and meaty flavor make it a top choice for grilling.

What is a Bone-In Ribeye?

This cut is essentially a thick ribeye with an extended bone. The bone, often frenched (where the fat and meat are removed), adds to the steak’s visual appeal. Its thickness and bone structure make it a true centerpiece for any meal.

Why Splurge on This Cut?

While it may come with a higher price tag, the bone-in ribeye is well worth the investment. Known for its tender texture and deep, beefy flavor, the steak is prized for its quality. Its limited availability and preparation process also add to its allure.

“The tomahawk steak is a true showstopper, a majestic piece of meat that commands attention and inspires awe in any setting.”

How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak

Cooking a tomahawk steak at home is a fun and rewarding experience. This cut, with its long rib bone, needs a two-step process. This ensures a great sear and a juicy inside.

Preparing the Steak for Cooking

Start by drying the tomahawk steak with paper towels. This helps create a nice crust when seared. Then, season it well with salt and black pepper on all sides. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to enhance the flavor.

Searing the Tomahawk Steak

Heat a large skillet or grill to high. When it’s hot, add the seasoned steak. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. This step, called the Maillard reaction, makes the meat taste better and feel softer.

Finishing the Steak in the Oven

After searing, put the steak in a 400°F oven. Cook for about 10 minutes, until it’s medium-rare, around 115°F. The bone makes the steak look impressive, so keep an eye on the cooking time.

Follow these steps for a delicious, restaurant-style tomahawk steak at home. Serve it with your favorite sides and sauces for a memorable meal.

how to cook a tomahawk steak

Compound Butter: Elevating Flavor

Compound butter is a secret ingredient for a delicious tomahawk steak. It adds richness and complexity to the meat. This simple ingredient can make your steak seasoning and flavoring even better.

Compound butter is made by mixing softened butter with herbs, spices, and other tasty ingredients. After searing or grilling the steak, a pat of this butter is placed on top. It melts and bastes the meat, making each bite full of flavor.

Compound Butter FlavorsAwards & Accolades
  • Sublime No. 5 Garlic & Herb Butter
  • Sublime No. 17 Chimichurri Butter
  • Sublime No. 12 Truffle, Parmesan & Black Pepper Butter
  • Sublime No. 19 Béarnaise Butter
  • Sublime No. 1 Pink Himalayan Salt Butter
  • Sublime No. 5 Garlic & Herb Butter: 3-star Great Taste Award
  • Sublime No. 17 Chimichurri Butter: 2-star Great Taste Award
  • Sublime No. 12 Truffle, Parmesan & Black Pepper Butter: 2-star Great Taste Award

The flavors in compound butter can range from classic to adventurous. Pairing it with a tomahawk steak makes for a memorable dining experience. It’s like dining at a top steakhouse.

Making compound butter at home is easy. Just mix your chosen ingredients with softened butter and chill until firm. This topping is great for not just steak, but also other meats and veggies. It’s a must-have for any home cook.

tomahawk steak seasoning

Whether you choose a traditional mix or something bold, compound butter is a flavor enhancer. It’s a simple way to make your steak night unforgettable.

Grilling vs. Oven: Which Method is Best?

Preparing a grilling tomahawk steak or oven-baked tomahawk steak can be a challenge. Both grilling and oven-roasting can make your steak taste amazing. It depends on what you like and what you have in your kitchen.

Grilling gives your steak a smoky flavor and a charred crust. It seals in the juices, making it juicy and flavorful. But, it can be hard to cook it evenly, especially with a thick tomahawk steak.

Oven-roasting cooks your steak more evenly. You start it hot and then lower the temperature. This way, you get a nice crust and a perfectly cooked inside. It’s easier to control the temperature, so you can get it just right.

Cooking MethodProsCons
Grilling
  • Develops a delicious charred crust
  • Imparts a smoky flavor
  • Can be challenging to achieve even doneness
  • Requires more attention and management during cooking
Oven-Roasting
  • Provides better temperature control
  • Achieves even cooking throughout
  • May not develop as pronounced a crust as grilling
  • Lacks the signature smoky flavor of grilled steak

Some chefs mix both methods. They grill the steak first to get the crust, then finish it in the oven. This way, you get the smoky flavor and even cooking.

Choosing between grilling and oven-roasting depends on what you like and what you have. Both ways can make your steak amazing. So, try both and see what you prefer.

grilling tomahawk steak

Seasoning and Flavoring Tomahawk Steak

Tomahawk steaks are a true indulgence. To bring out their rich flavor, seasoning is crucial. A simple mix of salt and pepper is a good start. But, trying out different steak seasoning blends can add depth to your dish.

Classic Steak Seasoning Blends

Consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a bit of cayenne pepper. These will create a flavorful crust on your tomahawk steak. They enhance the meat’s natural taste.

Herbs and Aromatics for Flavor

Fresh herbs like tomahawk steak herbs are also important. Use rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Mix them into compound butter or baste the steak with them. This lets their scents blend with the meat’s sizzle.

The secret to a great tomahawk steak is finding the right seasoning balance. Let the meat’s natural flavors stand out. Try different seasonings and methods to create your unique flavor.

Reverse Searing: An Alternative Cooking Technique

Want to elevate your reverse sear tomahawk steak experience? Try the reverse searing method. It involves roasting the steak in the oven until it’s just right, then searing it quickly to add a tasty crust.

This method is perfect for thick steaks like the tomahawk steak. It’s hard to cook them evenly. But, by roasting the steak first, you get a steak that’s cooked all the way through, with a pink center and a crispy crust.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 225°F.
  2. Season the steak with your favorite spices or salt and pepper.
  3. Put the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Roast until it hits 115-120°F, about 1.5 hours.
  4. Take the steak out of the oven and let it rest for 8-10 minutes.
  5. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill to high. Sear the steak for 60-90 seconds on each side, until it’s crusty.
  6. Let the reverse sear tomahawk steak rest for another 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

The reverse sear method makes your steak perfectly cooked and evenly colored. It’s especially good for thick cuts like the tomahawk steak, where it’s hard to get it right with other methods.

“The reverse sear method activates enzymes that tenderize the meat when cooked in the oven, leading to a more tender outcome.”

Ready to level up your tomahawk steak game? Try reverse searing. With a bit of patience and focus, you’ll make a steak that will wow your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Serving and Presenting Tomahawk Steak

The impressive size and dramatic presentation of a tomahawk steak deserve an equally impressive treatment when it comes to serving and plating. After meticulously cooking your tomahawk steak to perfection, the final step is to showcase it in a way that highlights its unique features and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Steakhouse-Inspired Side Dishes

To complement the bold, beefy flavor of a tomahawk steak, classic steakhouse-style side dishes are a natural choice. Some winning combinations include:

  • Creamy Spinach Gratin
  • Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • Wedge Salad with Bleu Cheese Dressing
  • Sautéed Mushrooms in Garlic Butter
  • Crispy Onion Rings

Plating and Carving Tomahawk Steak

The long, distinctive bone of a tomahawk steak is part of its signature presentation. Rather than removing it, leave the bone intact to showcase the steak’s dramatic appearance. Place the tomahawk steak on a large wooden cutting board or rustic platter, allowing the bone to hang gracefully over the edge.

When ready to serve, slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Make thick, generous cuts and arrange them on the board or platter, allowing the juices to pool around the meat. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs for a touch of color and freshness.

Serving a tomahawk steak is as much a theatrical experience as it is a culinary one. By paying attention to the side dishes, plating, and presentation, you can elevate the meal and create a truly memorable dining experience for your guests.

Sourcing High-Quality Tomahawk Steak

Finding the perfect tomahawk steak is a fun challenge for anyone who loves cooking. You can choose to buy from a local butcher or look online. The goal is to find the best quality for a great meal.

Local Butcher Shops and Grocery Stores

Going to a local butcher is a great way to get fresh, tasty tomahawk steaks. They know a lot about the beef, like where it comes from and how it’s aged. High-end grocery stores also sell tomahawk steaks, but the quality and availability can change.

Online Suppliers for Premium Beef

If you can’t find a local butcher, many online stores sell top-quality meat. White Oak Pastures, US Wellness Meats, and Primal Pastures are known for their grass-fed, responsibly raised tomahawk steaks. Online shopping is a good option for exploring the rich flavors of a true tomahawk steak.

SupplierTomahawk Steak SizeShippingPrice
White Oak Pastures48-60 ozNationwide$99-$149
US Wellness Meats48-60 ozNationwide$89-$129
Primal Pastures48-60 ozNationwide$109-$159

“The key to finding an exceptional tomahawk steak is to build a relationship with a trusted butcher or explore reputable online suppliers that prioritize quality and responsible sourcing.”

Conclusion

Tomahawk Steak is a showstopper that can be made at home. With the right steps, like seasoning and searing, you can impress everyone. This article will help you cook a perfect tomahawk steak.

Choosing the right beef and using the reverse-searing method is key. You can grill or roast it for different tastes. This guide will help you make a delicious tomahawk steak every time.

Presenting a tomahawk steak with great sides and sauces will wow your guests. This article will teach you how to make a steakhouse-quality meal at home. Enjoy the amazing flavor and texture of this impressive beef cut.

FAQ

What is a tomahawk steak?

A tomahawk steak is a thick, bone-in ribeye cut. It’s also known as a “cowboy steak” or “tomahawk ribeye.” The long, frenched bone looks like a tomahawk axe, making it look impressive.

Why is a tomahawk steak worth the splurge?

Tomahawk steaks are known for their marbling, tenderness, and beefy flavor. They’re a premium cut because of their limited supply and the hard work of frenching the bone.

How do you cook a tomahawk steak?

Cooking a tomahawk steak involves two steps. First, pat the steak dry and season it well. Then, sear it over high heat to get a flavorful crust. Finally, finish it in a hot oven to cook it to the right doneness.

What is compound butter and how does it enhance tomahawk steak?

Compound butter boosts the flavor of a tomahawk steak. Mix softened butter with herbs, spices, and other flavors. Place a pat of this butter on the steak while it’s hot. This lets the butter melt and add richness and complexity to the meat.

Should I grill or oven-roast my tomahawk steak?

Both grilling and oven-roasting can make a great tomahawk steak. Grilling gives a charred crust while oven-roasting cooks it evenly. Choose based on what you like, your kitchen, and the weather.

What are some good seasoning options for a tomahawk steak?

Tomahawk steaks need strong seasonings to match their flavor. Use salt, pepper, and garlic powder as a base. For more flavor, try onion powder, paprika, thyme, or rosemary. You can also use fresh herbs in compound butter or to baste the steak.

What is reverse searing and how does it work for tomahawk steak?

Reverse searing cooks the steak slowly in the oven first. Then, sear it quickly over high heat. This method ensures even cooking, with a pink center and a crusty exterior.

What are some good side dish pairings for a tomahawk steak?

The size and look of a tomahawk steak deserve impressive sides. Try creamed spinach, roasted potatoes, and a wedge salad. Leave the bone intact to show off the steak’s unique look.

Where can I find high-quality tomahawk steaks?

Find tomahawk steaks at good butcher shops and high-end grocery stores. Building a relationship with a local butcher is best for fresh, quality steaks. If you can’t find one locally, there are online meat purveyors that ship nationwide.

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