Tomahawk steak is a thick, juicy, and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. This impressive steak gets its name from its long bone, which resembles a tomahawk axe. The bone not only adds visual appeal but also helps to enhance the flavor of the meat.
When it comes to cooking a tomahawk steak on the grill, it is important to get the temperature just right. Cooking this cut of meat requires a combination of high heat to sear the exterior and lower heat to cook the interior to the desired level of doneness.
The ideal temperature for cooking a tomahawk steak on the grill is around 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C). This low and slow cooking method allows the meat to slowly absorb the smoke and develop a delicious crust, while ensuring that the interior is cooked to perfection.
Before placing the tomahawk steak on the grill, it is recommended to bring it to room temperature and season it with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Once the grill has reached the desired temperature, sear the steak on high heat for a few minutes on each side, then reduce the heat and continue cooking until the desired level of doneness is reached.
Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak reaches your preferred level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C), for medium cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C), and for medium-well cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
Once the tomahawk steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, slice and serve this impressive cut of meat to wow your guests and enjoy its incredible flavor.
Best Temperature for Cooking Tomahawk Steak on Grill
Cooking tomahawk steak on a grill requires precision in temperature control to ensure a perfectly cooked steak that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The best temperature for cooking a tomahawk steak on a grill is a two-stage process: searing and then indirect grilling.
Searing the Tomahawk Steak
The first step is to sear the tomahawk steak over high heat. Preheat the grill to a temperature of around 450°F (232°C). This high heat will help develop a flavorful crust on the steak. Before placing the steak on the grill, rub it with your desired seasoning, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the tomahawk steak on the grill directly over the heat source and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until a golden crust forms.
Note: It is essential to monitor the steak closely during the searing process to prevent burning. Keep an eye on the color, and adjust the heat or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill if necessary.
Indirect Grilling the Tomahawk Steak
After searing, it’s time to move the tomahawk steak to indirect heat for the remainder of the cooking process. To do this, turn off one side of the grill’s burners or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill. This method allows for slower cooking, ensuring the steak is cooked evenly without drying it out.
Preheat the cooler side of the grill to around 275°F (135°C). Place the seared tomahawk steak on the cool side of the grill, away from the direct heat source. Close the grill lid and cook the steak until it reaches your preferred level of doneness using a meat thermometer.
Note: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, for a medium-rare tomahawk steak, it will take around 20-30 minutes.
Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
When it comes to cooking a tomahawk steak on a grill, achieving the perfect internal temperature is key. By following these temperature guidelines for searing and indirect grilling, you can ensure a deliciously cooked tomahawk steak that will impress your guests.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Before grilling the tomahawk steak, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure it is cooked to perfection:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will help the meat cook evenly.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor, such as garlic powder or rosemary.
- Preheat your grill to a high temperature. The ideal temperature for cooking a tomahawk steak is around 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius).
- Place the tomahawk steak on the grill and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This will create a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak.
- Once the steak is seared, move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. A meat thermometer can be used to check the internal temperature.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice the tomahawk steak against the grain and serve it immediately. Enjoy!
By following these steps, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak with a delicious smoky flavor from the grill.
Choosing the Right Grilling Temperature
When it comes to cooking a tomahawk steak on a grill, choosing the right temperature is crucial to achieving that perfect level of doneness and flavor. The grill temperature you select will depend on the level of char and tenderness you desire. Here are a few guidelines to help you make the right choice:
Medium Heat: 350°F to 450°F (175°C to 230°C)
Grilling a tomahawk steak over medium heat allows for a balance between a nicely charred exterior and a tender, juicy interior. This temperature range is ideal if you prefer a medium-rare or medium doneness. It will give the steak a beautiful sear and lock in the juices, resulting in a deliciously flavored steak.
High Heat: 450°F to 550°F (230°C to 290°C)
If you’re looking to achieve a well-charred, crispy exterior while maintaining a medium-rare doneness, grilling your tomahawk steak over high heat is the way to go. The intense heat will create a flavorful crust on the outside, while still leaving the center juicy and pink. Keep a close eye on the steak to prevent it from becoming overcooked.
Pro Tip: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C), while medium doneness requires a slightly higher temperature of 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C).
Remember, every grill is different, so it’s important to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the steak and flip it only once to ensure even cooking. Now that you know the right grilling temperatures, get ready to impress your guests with a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak!
Searing the Tomahawk Steak
Before you begin cooking your tomahawk steak on the grill, it’s important to properly sear the meat to create a delicious crust. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to a high temperature. This will ensure that the steak gets a nice sear and helps to lock in the juices.
2. Season the Steak
Generously season the tomahawk steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.
3. Oil the Grill Grates
Using a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil, carefully oil the grill grates. This will help prevent the steak from sticking to the grill.
4. Sear the Steak
Once the grill is preheated and the grates are oiled, carefully place the tomahawk steak on the hot grill. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side or until it develops a browned crust.
Note: It’s important not to move the steak too much while searing to get those beautiful grill marks and allow the crust to form.
5. Create Grill Marks (Optional)
If you want to achieve those coveted grill marks, you can rotate the steak about 45 degrees after a couple of minutes on each side to create a crosshatch pattern.
6. Adjust the Heat
After searing, you can reduce the heat on your grill or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to continue cooking it to your desired doneness.
7. Rest the Steak
Once the tomahawk steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.
Remember, the searing process is crucial to achieving a flavorful crust on your tomahawk steak. Take your time and ensure that your grill is hot enough to get a nice sear. Enjoy your perfectly cooked tomahawk steak!
Monitoring the Internal Temperature
When cooking a tomahawk steak on a grill, it is important to monitor the internal temperature to ensure it is cooked to the desired level of doneness. This can be done using a meat thermometer.
First, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones. Be sure to insert it horizontally and not all the way through the steak.
Recommended Internal Temperatures
Here are the recommended internal temperatures for various levels of doneness:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium well: 155°F (68°C)
- Well done: 160°F (71°C) and above
It is important to note that the steak will continue to cook after it is removed from the grill, so it is advisable to remove it from the heat when the internal temperature is a few degrees below the desired level of doneness.
By monitoring the internal temperature, you can ensure that your tomahawk steak is cooked perfectly every time, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal.
Q&A
What is a tomahawk steak?
A tomahawk steak is a bone-in ribeye steak that has a long bone attached, resembling a tomahawk axe. It is known for its impressive presentation and delicious flavor.
How should I season a tomahawk steak?
You can season a tomahawk steak with a simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Rub the seasoning all over the steak, making sure to cover all sides, before grilling.
What temperature should I cook a tomahawk steak to?
For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, you should cook it to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Should I let the tomahawk steak rest after grilling?
Yes, it is important to let the tomahawk steak rest for about 10-15 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Can I cook a tomahawk steak on a gas grill?
Yes, you can cook a tomahawk steak on a gas grill. Preheat the grill to high heat and follow the grilling instructions for your desired level of doneness.
What is a tomahawk steak?
A tomahawk steak is a ribeye steak that is still attached to the rib bone. The bone is left long and frenched, which means it is scraped clean of meat and fat.