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September 20, 2024
If you’re a fan of juicy, tender, and flavorful steak, then you’ve probably heard of Wagyu beef. Known for its marbling and rich flavor, Wagyu steak is a high-end cut of meat that is often associated with luxury dining experiences. If you’ve always wanted to try cooking Wagyu steak at home but didn’t know where to start, we have you covered.
In this article, we’ll be taking inspiration from the legendary chef, Gordon Ramsay, to learn how to cook Wagyu steak to perfection. With his expertise and attention to detail, Ramsay has mastered the art of cooking steak, and his techniques can be easily applied to cooking Wagyu steak.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that Wagyu steak is best when cooked medium-rare to medium. This allows the marbling within the meat to melt and impart its rich flavors. Overcooking Wagyu steak can result in a loss of tenderness and juiciness. Aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F to 140°F (54°C to 60°C) for the perfect Wagyu steak.
Ramsay’s first tip is to ensure that the steak is at room temperature before cooking. This allows for more even and consistent cooking. Take the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. Season it with a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Selecting the Perfect Wagyu Steak
When it comes to cooking a good wagyu steak, selecting the right cut is crucial. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect wagyu steak:
Grade: The first thing to consider is the grade of the wagyu steak. The grading system can vary depending on the country, but in general, look for a steak that is graded A5, which is the highest level of marbling and tenderness.
Marbling: One of the key characteristics of wagyu beef is its high level of marbling. Marbling refers to the intramuscular fat that gives wagyu steak its rich and buttery flavor. Look for steaks with a good amount of marbling throughout the meat.
Color: Wagyu beef is known for its deep red color, which is a sign of its high fat content. Avoid steaks with a pale or light red color, as they may not have the same level of marbling as darker cuts.
Thickness: The thickness of the steak is also important to consider. Thicker steaks tend to cook more evenly and retain their juiciness better. Aim for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick.
Origin: Finally, consider the origin of the wagyu beef. Different regions, such as Japan or Australia, have their own unique breeds and farming practices that can affect the flavor and quality of the steak. Research the origin of the beef and choose a steak that aligns with your taste preferences.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that you select the perfect wagyu steak for your cooking needs. Enjoy the rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that wagyu beef has to offer!
Preparing the Wagyu Steak
Before cooking your Wagyu steak, it is important to properly prepare and season it to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result:
1. Choose a high-quality Wagyu steak
When selecting your Wagyu steak, look for one that has a good amount of marbling, as this will contribute to its rich taste. It is recommended to choose a prime or higher grade of Wagyu steak for the best results.
2. Remove the steak from the refrigerator
Take the Wagyu steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly and help retain its juiciness.
3. Season the steak
Season the Wagyu steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This will help to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
4. Preheat the grill or pan
If using a grill, preheat it to high heat. If using a pan, preheat it over medium-high heat. Ensuring that the cooking surface is hot will help to achieve a nice sear on the steak.
5. Sear the steak
Place the seasoned Wagyu steak on the grill or in the preheated pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. This will help to seal in the juices and create a flavorful outer crust.
6. Let it rest
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Following these steps will help you create a perfectly cooked and delicious Wagyu steak that is sure to impress. Enjoy!
Seasoning the Wagyu Steak
Properly seasoning your wagyu steak is crucial to bringing out its natural flavors. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Allow the steak to come to room temperature: Take the wagyu steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the steak from becoming tough.
2. Pat the steak dry: Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry. This will help the seasonings adhere better to the meat.
3. Season with salt: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides of the steak. The salt will help enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust.
4. Add freshly ground black pepper: Grind some fresh black pepper onto both sides of the steak. The pepper will add a subtle heat to complement the rich flavors of the wagyu.
5. Optional seasonings: If desired, you can add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning blend. Simply sprinkle these seasonings onto the steak and pat them into the meat to ensure even distribution.
6. Let the steak rest: After seasoning, let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salt to penetrate the meat.
7. Preheat your cooking method: Whether you plan to grill, pan-sear, or broil the steak, make sure your cooking method is preheated to high heat. This will help create a flavorful, caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
By following these steps and using quality seasonings, you can elevate the flavor of your wagyu steak and create a truly memorable dining experience.
Searing the Wagyu Steak
Once you have prepared your wagyu steak by bringing it to room temperature and seasoning it with salt, it’s time to sear it to perfection. Searing the steak will create a flavorful crust and seal in the juices.
Here’s how to properly sear your wagyu steak:
- Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. It should be smoking hot.
- Add a thin layer of oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the pan. Swirl the oil around to coat the surface.
- Using tongs, carefully place the seasoned wagyu steak into the hot pan. Be cautious of any oil splatters.
- Allow the steak to sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, or until a deep brown crust forms. This will ensure a rich flavor and beautiful texture.
- Flip the steak using tongs and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- If desired, you can use a spoon to baste the steak with the hot oil and juices to enhance the flavor.
Remember, the key to a perfect sear is to resist the temptation to move or flip the steak too often. Allow it to develop a crust before flipping to ensure a juicy and tender interior.
After searing, you can choose to finish cooking the wagyu steak in the oven until it reaches your desired doneness. However, some purists prefer to enjoy the steak as is, rare or medium-rare.
Once the wagyu steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Cooking the Wagyu Steak to Perfection
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
Before cooking the Wagyu steak, make sure to remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the steak.
Step 2: Seasoning the Steak
Season the room temperature Wagyu steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Be sure to evenly coat the steak with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preparing the Pan
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to create a sear on the steak.
Step 4: Searing the Steak
Once the pan is hot, carefully place the seasoned Wagyu steak in the pan. Allow it to sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a caramelized crust forms.
Step 5: Finishing in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After searing the steak, transfer it to a baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is achieved.
Step 6: Resting the Steak
Once the Wagyu steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 7: Slicing and Serving
Using a sharp knife, slice the rested Wagyu steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve the steak hot and enjoy!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 Wagyu steak | 1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature. |
| Salt and pepper | 2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. |
| Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan | 3. Heat the pan over high heat. |
| Baking sheet | 4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). |
| Sharp knife | 5. Slice the rested steak against the grain before serving. |
Q&A
What is wagyu steak?
Wagyu steak refers to beef from a Japanese cattle breed called Wagyu, which is known for its high marbling and tenderness. It is considered to be one of the most luxurious and sought-after types of beef in the world.
How does Gordon Ramsay cook wagyu steak?
Gordon Ramsay recommends cooking wagyu steak on high heat to achieve a delicious sear on the outside, while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside. He suggests seasoning it with salt and pepper, then searing it in a hot pan with a little bit of olive oil for 2-3 minutes on each side. After that, he lets it rest for a few minutes before serving it.
Should I marinate wagyu steak before cooking?
No, marinating wagyu steak is not necessary. The high levels of intramuscular fat in wagyu beef provide enough flavor and tenderness on their own. It is best to simply season it with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the natural taste of the meat.
Can wagyu steak be cooked well-done?
While wagyu steak can be cooked to a well-done temperature, it is not recommended. The high marbling of wagyu beef is best enjoyed when it is cooked to a medium-rare or medium doneness. Cooking it well-done can result in a less tender and flavorful steak.