Grilling a tomahawk steak is a delightful and impressive way to enjoy this flavorful and juicy cut of meat. With its long bone and hefty size, the tomahawk steak is sure to impress your guests at any special occasion or backyard gathering. The key to cooking a tomahawk steak perfectly on the grill lies in a combination of proper preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques.
First, it is important to bring the tomahawk steak to room temperature before grilling. This allows for even cooking throughout the meat. To enhance the flavor, you can season the steak with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or herbs. The longer you let the steak marinate in the seasoning, the more flavorful it will become.
When it comes to grilling the tomahawk steak, it is recommended to use a two-zone fire method. This means you will have one side of the grill set to high heat for searing the steak and the other side set to medium heat for finishing the cooking process. Searing the steak on high heat will create a beautiful crust, while finishing it on medium heat will ensure that the interior cooks to perfection.
It is important to monitor the internal temperature of the tomahawk steak while cooking. Using a meat thermometer, you can check for the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should register around 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C). Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Grilling a tomahawk steak on the grill is a wonderful way to enjoy a tender and flavorful cut of meat. With the right preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Before grilling the tomahawk steak, there are a few steps you should take to ensure it is seasoned and cooked perfectly.
1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator
Take the tomahawk steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will help it cook more evenly on the grill.
2. Season the steak
Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Let the steak sit for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to high heat. This will create a sear on the steak, sealing in the juices and adding a delicious charred flavor.
4. Prepare the steak for grilling
Brush the steak with a small amount of oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill grates. You can use a neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil.
5. Grill the steak
Place the tomahawk steak directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches your preferred doneness.
6. Let the steak rest
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
Following these steps will help you cook a delicious tomahawk steak on the grill. Enjoy!
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to cooking a tomahawk steak on the grill, one of the most important factors to consider is choosing the right cut of meat. In order to achieve the best results, it is crucial to select a high-quality tomahawk steak that is well-marbled and has a good amount of fat running through it.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right cut of meat for grilling. First and foremost, it is important to look for USDA prime or choice grade tomahawk steaks. These grades ensure that the meat is of a higher quality, with marbling that enhances tenderness and flavor.
In addition to the grade of the meat, the thickness of the tomahawk steak should also be taken into consideration. Opt for a tomahawk steak that is at least 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness will allow for a perfect sear on the outside while ensuring that the steak remains juicy and tender on the inside.
Another important factor to consider is the source of the tomahawk steak. Look for steaks that come from grass-fed or grain-fed beef, as these cuts tend to have better flavor and texture. Additionally, consider the aging process of the meat. Steaks that have been dry-aged for at least 21 days tend to have a more concentrated flavor and increased tenderness.
When choosing the right cut of meat, it is also worth considering the size of the tomahawk steak. Keep in mind that a larger tomahawk steak will take longer to cook on the grill, so plan accordingly. Consider the number of people you will be serving and choose a size that will accommodate everyone.
Grade | Thickness | Source | Aging | Size |
---|---|---|---|---|
USDA Prime or Choice | 1.5 to 2 inches | Grass-fed or Grain-fed | Dry-aged for at least 21 days | Choose based on servings |
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking the tomahawk steak on the grill, it’s essential to season it properly. This step helps to enhance the flavors and elevate the overall taste of the steak.
Start by generously seasoning the steak on all sides with a high-quality salt. Kosher salt or sea salt works well for this purpose. The coarse texture of these salts helps to create a delicious crust on the steak.
After applying the salt, you can also add additional seasonings to enhance the flavor profile of the steak. Some popular options include freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to create a personalized flavor blend.
Make sure to gently pat the seasoning into the steak to ensure it adheres properly. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat before grilling.
While seasoning is essential, it’s crucial not to overwhelm the natural flavor of the tomahawk steak. Remember that the quality and taste of the meat itself are the stars of the show.
Letting the Steak Rest
Once you have finished cooking the tomahawk steak on the grill, it is essential to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Why let the steak rest?
When the steak is cooked, the heat causes the juices to move towards the center of the meat. If you were to immediately cut into the steak, these flavorful juices would pour out, leaving you with a drier, less flavorful steak.
By allowing the steak to rest for a few minutes, you give the juices time to redistribute and reabsorb into the meat. This results in a juicier, more tender, and more flavorful steak.
How long to let the steak rest?
For a tomahawk steak, it is recommended to let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This will allow the steak to cool slightly and the juices to redistribute properly.
During this resting period, you can cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil to help retain some heat and prevent it from cooling too quickly.
Note: It is important to resist the temptation to cut into the steak immediately. Patience is key to achieving the perfect tomahawk steak!
Preparing the Grill
Before grilling your tomahawk steak, it’s important to prepare the grill properly to ensure even cooking and delicious results. Follow these steps to get your grill ready:
1. Clean the Grill:
Start by cleaning the grill grates to remove any leftover debris from previous cooking sessions. Use a wire brush to scrape off any residue, and then wipe the grates with a cloth soaked in vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 450°F (232°C). This will ensure a nice sear on the outside of the steak while cooking it to the desired temperature inside.
3. Set Up Two-Zone Cooking:
Create two heat zones on your grill by arranging the coals or turning on only half of the burners if you have a gas grill. This will allow you to sear the steak over direct heat and then finish cooking it over indirect heat for even doneness.
4. Oil the Grates:
Before placing the steak on the grill, oil the grates to prevent sticking. Use tongs and a cloth soaked in vegetable oil to rub the grates thoroughly. Be careful as the oil may cause flare-ups when the steak is added to the grill.
5. Gather Your Tools:
Make sure you have all the necessary tools nearby, such as long-handled tongs, a meat thermometer, and a timer. These will help you monitor and control the cooking process.
By following these steps to prepare your grill, you’ll be well on your way to grilling a perfect tomahawk steak!
Cooking the Tomahawk Steak
Grilling the perfect tomahawk steak requires some skill and attention to detail, but the delicious and tender result is well worth the effort. Follow these steps to impress your friends and family with a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak.
1. Prepare the Steak
Start by letting the tomahawk steak come to room temperature. This will ensure that it cooks evenly. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 20-30 minutes.
2. Season the Steak
Season the tomahawk steak generously with salt and pepper, or use your favorite steak rub or marinade for added flavor. Make sure to season all sides of the steak and rub the seasoning into the meat to enhance the flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F (230-260°C). It’s important to have a hot grill to sear the steak and lock in the juices.
4. Sear the Steak
Place the tomahawk steak on the hottest part of the grill and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until a nice crust forms. This will give the steak a beautiful charred exterior and enhance the flavor.
5. Move to Indirect Heat
Once the steak is seared on all sides, move it to an area of the grill with indirect heat. Close the lid of the grill and allow the steak to continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook as it rests.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the tomahawk steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender. Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked tomahawk steak! Serve it with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Questions and answers
What is a Tomahawk steak?
A Tomahawk steak is a large, bone-in ribeye steak with a long bone still attached, resembling a tomahawk axe, hence the name. It is known for its impressive presentation and tenderness.
How do you prepare a Tomahawk steak before grilling?
Before grilling a Tomahawk steak, it is recommended to bring it to room temperature and season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also marinate it with your preferred seasonings for added flavor. Let it rest for about 30 minutes before grilling.
What is the best grilling temperature for a Tomahawk steak?
The ideal grilling temperature for a Tomahawk steak is around 225-250 degrees Celsius. This allows for a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and medium-rare.
How long should I grill a Tomahawk steak for medium-rare?
To grill a Tomahawk steak to medium-rare doneness, you should cook it for about 12-15 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your grill. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 57-60 degrees Celsius.