Grilling bone marrow is a culinary technique that brings out the rich and savory flavors of this often overlooked ingredient. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or just curious to try something new, grilling bone marrow can be a delicious and impressive addition to any meal.
But what exactly is bone marrow?
Bone marrow is the soft, jelly-like substance found inside the bones of animals. It is typically rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and collagen, and is often used as a base for stocks and soups. Grilling bone marrow allows the fat to render and the flavors to intensify, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
So how do you grill bone marrow?
First, you’ll need to select your bone marrow. Look for bones that are cut lengthwise, exposing the marrow. Beef shank bones are a popular choice, but you can also use veal or pork bones. Before grilling, it’s important to soak the bones in cold water for at least 1 hour to remove any excess blood and impurities.
Next, prepare your grill for indirect cooking. This means heating one side of the grill to high heat and leaving the other side off. Once the grill is hot, place the bones, cut side up, on the cool side of the grill. This will allow the marrow to slowly cook and render without burning.
When grilling bone marrow, timing is crucial.
Depending on the size of the bones, it can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for the marrow to cook through. The key is to keep an eye on the bones and remove them from the grill when the marrow is soft and creamy. Overcooking can result in a greasy texture and a loss of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Bone Marrow on the Grill
Grilled bone marrow is a decadent and delicious treat that can elevate any meal. Follow these steps to learn how to cook bone marrow on the grill:
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will allow the bone marrow to cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Bone Marrow
Cut the bone marrow into 2-inch sections, and season with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the bone marrow as it grills.
Step 3: Grill the Bone Marrow
Place the bone marrow sections directly on the grill grates, with the cut side facing down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until the marrow starts to bubble and release its fat.
Step 4: Flip and Grill
Using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip the bone marrow sections onto the other cut side. Grill for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the marrow is heated through and tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled bone marrow from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot with crusty bread, sea salt, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients: | Instructions: |
---|---|
– Bone marrow sections | 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. |
– Salt and pepper, to taste | 2. Cut the bone marrow into 2-inch sections, and season with salt and pepper. |
– Crusty bread | 3. Place the bone marrow sections on the grill grates, cut side down, and grill for 4-5 minutes. |
– Sea salt | 4. Flip the bone marrow sections and grill for an additional 4-5 minutes. |
– Fresh herbs | 5. Remove from the grill and serve hot with crusty bread, sea salt, and fresh herbs. |
Choosing the Right Cut of Bone Marrow
When it comes to cooking bone marrow on the grill, choosing the right cut is essential for a delicious and satisfying meal. There are a few different options to consider, each with its own unique qualities.
One popular choice is beef marrow bones, which are typically cut into smaller sections before being grilled. Beef marrow bones are known for their rich, savoury flavour and creamy texture. They are often used in recipes like bone marrow butter or as a topping for grilled meats.
Veal marrow bones are another option to consider. These bones are smaller and more delicate in flavour compared to beef marrow bones. Veal marrow bones are often used in dishes like osso buco, where the marrow is cooked alongside the meat for added richness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try lamb or pork marrow bones. Lamb marrow bones are smaller and milder in flavour compared to beef marrow bones, while pork marrow bones have a slightly sweeter taste. Both can be a tasty addition to your grill menu.
When choosing bone marrow for grilling, it’s important to select bones that are fresh and of high quality. Look for bones that have a shiny, moist appearance and avoid any that have a rancid smell or discoloured spots.
Regardless of the cut you choose, grilling bone marrow can be a unique and delicious way to enjoy this rich and decadent ingredient. Just be sure to follow proper grilling techniques and serve it up with your favourite accompaniments for a memorable dining experience.
Preparing the Grill for Cooking
Before you start cooking the bone marrow on the grill, it’s important to properly prepare the grill to ensure even cooking and delicious results.
Clean the grill
Start by thoroughly cleaning the grill grates to remove any leftover remnants from previous meals. Use a grill brush to scrub away any stubborn residue, and then wipe the grates clean with a damp cloth.
Preheat the grill
Next, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This will help to sear the bone marrow and create a delicious crust on the outside.
To preheat the grill, simply turn on the burners and close the lid. Allow the grill to heat up for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches a temperature of around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
While the grill is preheating, you can take this time to prepare the bone marrow by seasoning it with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings.
Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to start cooking the bone marrow! Follow the next steps in the recipe to achieve perfectly grilled bone marrow.
Preparing the Bone Marrow
Before you can cook bone marrow on the grill, you need to properly prepare it. Follow these steps:
1. Selecting the bone marrow
Choose high-quality bone marrow from a reliable butcher or grocery store. Look for bones that are fresh, with a pinkish-red color and no visible signs of spoilage.
2. Soaking the bone marrow
You may choose to soak the bone marrow in cold water for 24 hours before grilling. This step helps to remove any remaining blood or impurities from the bones.
3. Cleaning the bone marrow
Before grilling, use a small spoon or knife to remove any excess fat or tissue from the bone marrow. This will make it easier to handle and enhance the taste.
Note: Some people prefer to leave a thin layer of fat on the bone marrow for added flavor.
4. Seasoning the bone marrow
Season the bone marrow according to your taste preferences. You can simply sprinkle it with salt and pepper, or use your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Tip: Popular seasonings for bone marrow include garlic, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
5. Letting it come to room temperature
Allow the bone marrow to come to room temperature before grilling. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the marrow from being too cold in the center.
Follow these steps to properly prepare the bone marrow for grilling, and you’ll be ready to cook it to perfection on the grill!
Seasoning the Bone Marrow
Before grilling, it’s important to properly season the bone marrow to enhance its flavor. Start by bringing the bone marrow to room temperature. This will make it easier to work with and ensure even cooking.
Next, sprinkle the bone marrow with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for additional flavor. Massage the seasonings onto the bone marrow, making sure to coat it evenly.
Marinating Option
If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can marinate the bone marrow before grilling. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Place the bone marrow in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Resting the Seasoned Bone Marrow
After seasoning, let the bone marrow rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate and the salt to draw out any excess moisture. It also helps the bone marrow reach room temperature, which promotes more even cooking.
Grilling the Bone Marrow
Once you have prepared the bone marrow by soaking it in cold water and removing any excess blood, it is time to get your grill ready.
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want to create a hot grilling surface to achieve a nice sear on the bone marrow.
Next, place the bone marrow directly on the grill grates. Make sure to space them out evenly and leave enough room for flipping them over.
Cook the bone marrow for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely charred and heated through. You want to achieve a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside creamy and soft.
Using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip the bone marrow over to grill the other side. Be gentle to prevent the marrow from falling out of the bone.
Once both sides are grilled to your desired doneness, remove the bone marrow from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
Allow the bone marrow to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors to meld and the marrow to set slightly.
You can serve the grilled bone marrow with crusty bread or toast points to spread the marrow on. Add some sea salt, freshly ground pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors. Enjoy!
Ingredients | Instructions |
---|---|
Bone marrow | Soak the bone marrow in cold water and remove excess blood. |
Grill | Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. |
Bone marrow | Place the bone marrow directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. |
Bone marrow | Flip the bone marrow over using tongs or a spatula and grill the other side. |
Bone marrow | Remove the bone marrow from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Allow to rest. |
Seasonings | Serve the grilled bone marrow with crusty bread and sprinkle with sea salt, pepper, and herbs. |
Q&A
What is bone marrow?
Bone marrow is a soft, fatty substance found in the center of bones. It is rich in nutrients and has a unique, buttery flavor.
How do I choose bone marrow for grilling?
When choosing bone marrow for grilling, look for bones that are cut lengthwise and have a nice amount of marrow. Beef and veal bones are commonly used for grilling.
What is the best way to prepare bone marrow for grilling?
To prepare bone marrow for grilling, you will need to soak the bones in cold water for about 48 hours to remove any excess blood. After soaking, you can season the marrow with salt and pepper or any other desired spices.
How do I grill bone marrow?
To grill bone marrow, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned bones on the grill, cut side down, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the marrow is heated through and starts to bubble. Serve the grilled bone marrow with crusty bread or use it as a topping for steak or burgers.
What can I serve with grilled bone marrow?
Grilled bone marrow pairs well with crusty bread or crostini, pickled onions, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It can also be served alongside a salad or as a topping for steak or burgers.
What is bone marrow?
Bone marrow is a soft, fatty substance found inside the bones of animals. It is very nutrient-dense and is often used in cooking for its rich and unique flavor.