Are you ready to take your grilling skills to the next level? Then it’s time to learn how to cook cowboy steak on a gas grill. This impressive cut of beef, also known as a tomahawk steak, is perfect for special occasions or when you want to show off your culinary prowess. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering, perfectly cooked cowboy steak that will have your friends and family begging for seconds.

To start, you’ll need to gather your ingredients and equipment. You’ll obviously need a cowboy steak, which is basically a bone-in ribeye steak with a long section of rib bone still attached. Look for a steak that’s at least two inches thick for the best results. You’ll also need some coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your favorite steak seasoning rub. And, of course, you’ll need a gas grill with a reliable temperature gauge.

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to prepare your steak. Take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking. Meanwhile, preheat your gas grill to high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: If you want to add some extra flavor, you can marinate your steak before grilling. A simple mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices will do the trick.

Now it’s time to grill your cowboy steak. Start by seasoning it generously with coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your favorite steak rub. Press the seasonings into the meat to ensure they adhere. Then, place the steak on the hot grill and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a nice crust forms. This will give your steak that delicious charred flavor.

Once the steak is nicely seared, move it to a cooler part of the grill or turn down the heat to medium. Close the grill and continue cooking the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 5-6 minutes per side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read around 130°F (54°C).

Preparing the steak

The first step in cooking a delicious cowboy steak on a gas grill is to properly prepare the steak. Here’s how:

1. Thaw the steak:

Make sure the cowboy steak is completely thawed before grilling. Remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the steak from drying out.

2. Season the steak:

Generously season the cowboy steak with salt and black pepper. For additional flavor, you can also use a dry rub or marinade of your choice. Massage the seasonings into the steak, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

See also  How to cook cut up potatoes on stove

3. Preheat the gas grill:

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. Close the lid and allow the grill to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and develops a nice sear.

4. Oil the grates:

Once the grill is hot, use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to oil the grates. This will create a non-stick surface and prevent the steak from sticking to the grates.

5. Preheat the steak:

Carefully place the cowboy steak on the preheated grill. Close the lid and let the steak cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.

6. Let the steak rest:

Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy steak.

Now that you have properly prepared the cowboy steak, you can proceed to cook it to perfection on your gas grill!

Choosing the right cut

When it comes to cooking a cowboy steak on a gas grill, choosing the right cut of meat is essential. The cowboy steak is a thick, bone-in ribeye steak that is known for its rich flavor and marbling. It is also a larger cut of meat, usually weighing around 2 pounds or more.

There are a few different cuts of beef that can be used for a cowboy steak, but the most common is the ribeye. The ribeye is a tender and well-marbled cut that is perfect for grilling. It is also a versatile cut that can be cooked to a variety of doneness levels, from rare to well done.

When selecting a ribeye for your cowboy steak, look for one that has good marbling throughout the meat. Marbling refers to those small white flecks of fat that are found throughout the muscle. This fat helps to keep the steak moist and adds flavor as it cooks.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a ribeye for your cowboy steak is the thickness of the steak. A thick cut steak, around 1.5 to 2 inches, will give you a nice juicy center with a flavorful crust when grilled on a gas grill.

Other cuts to consider:

  • Porterhouse: Similar to the T-bone steak, the porterhouse is larger and has more of the tenderloin muscle. It is a great choice if you want a larger portion and prefer a filet mignon along with your ribeye.
  • Tomahawk: The tomahawk steak is a ribeye steak that is left with a long bone, resembling a tomahawk axe. It is a showstopper cut that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.

Regardless of the cut you choose, make sure to use a high-quality piece of meat for the best results. This will ensure that your cowboy steak is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor when cooked on a gas grill.

See also  How long to cook raw shrimp on the grill

Comparison of different cuts:

Cut Size Marbling Tenderness
Ribeye Thick High Tender
Porterhouse Thick High Tender
Tomahawk Thick High Tender

Seasoning the steak

Before grilling the cowboy steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its natural flavors. Here’s how you can season the steak:

1. Gather the ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons of coarse salt

– 1 tablespoon of black pepper

– 1 tablespoon of garlic powder

– 1 tablespoon of onion powder

– 1 tablespoon of paprika

2. Combine the ingredients:

In a small bowl, mix together the coarse salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined.

3. Apply the seasoning:

Take the cowboy steak and pat it dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously on both sides of the steak, ensuring an even coating. Using your hands, gently press the seasonings onto the surface of the steak to help them adhere.

Note: If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture.

Allow the seasoned cowboy steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the salt to penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor and tenderness.

Once the steak is seasoned and ready, it’s time to move on to the next step in the grilling process.

Grilling the steak

1. Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

2. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow it to come to room temperature.

3. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add your favorite dry rub or seasoning for additional flavor.

4. Place the steak on the hot grill and close the lid. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the desired doneness.

5. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, it should read 135-140°F (57-60°C).

6. Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

7. Slice the cowboy steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Grilling Tips:
– Preheating the grill is crucial to get a nice sear on the steak.
– Do not flip the steak too frequently. Let it cook undisturbed to develop a crust.
– Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking times and prevent overcooking.
– Letting the steak rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
– Use a sharp knife to slice the steak for clean, even cuts.

Preheating the gas grill

Before cooking your cowboy steak on a gas grill, it’s important to preheat the grill properly to ensure even cooking and a deliciously charred exterior. Follow these steps to preheat your gas grill:

  1. Make sure your gas grill is clean and free from any debris or leftover food from previous cookouts.
  2. Open the lid of the grill and turn on the gas supply.
  3. Turn all the burners to high heat and close the lid.
  4. Allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches a temperature of around 500°F (260°C).
See also  How to cook whole artichokes

During the preheating process, the grill grates will get extremely hot, which will help to sear the cowboy steak and create those desirable grill marks. It’s important to preheat the grill with the lid closed to trap the heat inside and ensure an even distribution of heat throughout the cooking surface.

Once your gas grill is preheated and ready to go, you’ll be one step closer to cooking a mouthwatering cowboy steak that’s perfectly seared on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside.

FAQ

What is cowboy steak?

Cowboy steak, also known as tomahawk steak, is a thick-cut ribeye steak that is still attached to the rib bone. It is called cowboy steak because the long bone resembles a handle of a tomahawk axe.

How do I cook a cowboy steak on a gas grill?

To cook a cowboy steak on a gas grill, start by preheating the grill to high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, and drizzle a bit of olive oil on both sides. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the desired level of doneness.

Can I marinate a cowboy steak before grilling?

Yes, you can marinate a cowboy steak before grilling to add more flavor. A simple marinade can be made by combining olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices of your choice. Place the steak in a zip-top bag with the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better results. Make sure to pat the steak dry before grilling.

What temperature should I cook a cowboy steak to?

The internal temperature of a cowboy steak can vary depending on personal preference, but a general guideline is to cook it to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook as it rests, so it is advisable to remove it from the grill when it reaches about 5°F (3°C) below the desired temperature.

How should I serve a cowboy steak?

A cowboy steak is a hearty cut of meat that pairs well with simple sides. You can serve it with grilled vegetables, a baked potato, or a traditional cowboy side like baked beans. For added flavour, you can also top the steak with a pat of compound butter or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce.

What is cowboy steak?

Cowboy steak is a thick-cut bone-in ribeye steak that is typically 1-2 inches thick. It gets its name from the traditional cowboy way of cooking steak over an open flame.