I love grilling and nothing beats a perfectly cooked steak. The tomahawk steak is special – it’s thick, bone-in, and looks amazing. If you want to grill like a pro, let’s learn how to make a tomahawk steak.
Table of Contents
What is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is a special cut of beef. It’s a ribeye with the long rib bone still attached. This makes it look like a “tomahawk” and is perfect for showing off.
These steaks are very thick, about 2 inches. They have great marbling, which makes them tender and flavorful.
The steak comes from the rib section of the cow. It’s between the sixth and twelfth ribs. This means it’s a bone-in ribeye steak with a long, frenched rib bone.
The bone-in rib-eye has a 5- to 8-inch “handle.” This gives the steak its unique look.
Tomahawk steaks are loved by steak fans. They are pricey because of their impressive look and taste. They weigh between 1 1/2 and 3 pounds. This makes them great for sharing or as the main dish.
“The tomahawk steak is a must-have for any serious meat lover. The long, bone-in rib eye makes for a truly spectacular presentation and an unparalleled steak-eating experience.”
When cooking a tomahawk steak, treat it with care. It’s thick and well-marbled. The right cooking can make it the highlight of any meal.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
When picking the perfect tomahawk steak, look for cuts that are at least 2 inches thick. This thickness makes the steak look great and stay tender and juicy while grilling. Also, choose steaks with plenty of marbling for more moisture and flavor.
A tomahawk steak is a ribeye beef steak with the rib bone still intact. It’s a very thick cut of meat. Thicker cuts are better for grilling because they’re less likely to overcook. The best internal temperature for a medium rare tomahawk steak is between 120-125 degrees.
When choosing your tomahawk steak, look for cuts with great marbling. This fat content adds a rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The thick, juicy nature of the tomahawk steak also makes it a favorite among steak lovers.
Preparing the Steak for Grilling
To enjoy a juicy, flavorful tomahawk steak, you must prepare it right. First, bring the steak to room temperature. Then, coat it with olive oil and season it with your favorite blend.
Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Tomahawk steaks are about 2 inches thick. It’s important to let them come to room temperature before cooking. This takes about 2 hours. Letting the preparing tomahawk steak reach room temp ensures it cooks evenly.
Season the Steak
After the steak is at room temperature, drizzle it with olive oil. This helps the steak seasoning stick. Then, season it well with your favorite steak seasoning blend. Make sure to cover every part of the steak. The salt in the seasoning will soak deep into the meat for great flavor.
“Properly preparing the tomahawk steak is key to achieving that perfect sear and tender, juicy interior.”
Don’t hold back on the seasoning. The thick tomahawk steak can take a lot of flavor. This simple preparation will help you grill it to perfection.
Tomahawk Steak Internal Temp
Grilling a tomahawk steak to perfection means watching the internal temperature closely. For a medium-rare, pull it off the grill at 120-125°F. A good meat thermometer is key to getting it just right.
Steaks over 135°F will be more well-done. But, the best taste is in the medium-rare range. Here, the steak is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Keep an eye on the temperature to get this perfect spot.
The big size of a tomahawk steak makes it hard to tell doneness by looks alone. A meat thermometer is your best friend for a perfectly cooked steak every time.
“For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, the internal temperature should reach 120-125°F. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.”
Reverse Searing the Tomahawk Steak
The reverse sear method is the best way to cook a thick tomahawk steak. First, cook the steak over low heat until it’s just right. Then, sear it at high heat to get a tasty crust.
Slow and Steady Cooking
Start by putting the tomahawk steak on the grill over indirect heat. Keep the temperature around 225°F. Let it cook slowly, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Wait until it hits 110°F. This ensures a perfect medium-rare center.
Searing for Crust Perfection
When the steak is at 110°F, it’s time to sear it. Move it to a hot cast-iron skillet or the grill’s high-heat burners. Sear each side for about 90 seconds.
This creates a crust that seals in the juices and boosts the flavor.
The reverse sear method is a game-changer for reverse searing tomahawk steak. It allows for indirect heat cooking and high heat searing to create a steak crust like no other.
“The reverse sear method is the best way to cook a thick tomahawk steak, ensuring a tender, juicy, and flavorful result.”
Resting and Serving the Steak
After grilling your juicy, flavorful tomahawk steak, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the redistribution of juices throughout the meat. So, every bite is tender and full of flavor.
Once the steak hits 135°F for medium-rare, take it off the grill. Move it to a cutting board and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This way, the internal temperature will rise to 140-145°F, perfect for medium-rare.
After the resting tomahawk steak has relaxed, use a sharp knife to carve it off the bone. Slice the steak against the grain to keep it tender. Place the sliced and serving steak on a platter, leaving the bone for a stunning presentation.
Think about adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor and looks. You can also drizzle it with garlic butter or red wine sauce to make it even better.
Serve the tomahawk steak with roasted veggies, a crisp salad, or your favorite starch. Options include mashed or roasted potatoes. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful steak you’ve grilled to perfection!
Compound Garlic Butter
Take your grilled tomahawk steak to the next level with compound garlic butter. This creamy, savory topping is simple to make. It adds a rich flavor to your steak.
To make the compound garlic butter, start by roasting several cloves of garlic until they’re soft and caramelized. Then, mash the roasted garlic and mix it into softened unsalted butter. Add freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, and tarragon. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Once the compound garlic butter is mixed, roll it into a log shape. Wrap it in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm. When ready, slice off rounds and place them on your grilled tomahawk steak. As the butter melts, it will infuse the meat with its aromatic, savory goodness.
The leftover compound garlic butter can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, freeze it for longer storage. Enjoy this roasted garlic and herb-infused butter on your grilled tomahawk steak or other meats for a special touch.
“The compound garlic butter elevates the tomahawk steak to new levels of flavor and juiciness.”
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Roasted Garlic Cloves | 6-8 cloves |
| Fresh Parsley, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Chives, finely chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Tarragon, finely chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Tips and Tricks
Grilling the perfect tomahawk steak requires a few key tips. First, don’t hold back on seasoning. These thick steaks can take bold flavors, so add plenty of salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning.
Also, think about where you place the bone. To avoid scorching, keep it away from direct heat. This ensures the steak cooks evenly and looks great.
Preventing Scorching
Keeping the bone away from direct heat is key. Place the steak so the bone is over indirect heat. This keeps the temperature steady and looks better.
Generous Seasoning
Season your tomahawk steak generously with tomahawk steak seasoning. The thick cut can handle lots of flavor. This makes the steak taste better and creates a tasty crust.
“The thick cut can handle plenty of flavor, so don’t be shy on the seasoning.”
Perfect tomahawk steaks need the right seasoning, positioning, and cooking. Follow these tips to make a steak that will wow your guests.
Conclusion
Grilling the perfect tomahawk steak is a rewarding task. It requires careful steps, from picking the right cut to finishing with compound butter. This way, you can make a top-notch tomahawk steak at home. It’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite for special events.
The secret to a juicy tomahawk steak is in the prep and cooking method. Choose a thick, marbled cut with the bone. Let it come to room temperature before seasoning. Then, use the reverse sear to cook it to the right internal temperature. Rest the steak and add compound butter for a delicious finish.
Mastering tomahawk steak grilling will boost your cooking skills. It’s perfect for dinner parties or a special meal. With practice, you’ll make a tomahawk steak as good as any steakhouse. So, fire up the grill and enjoy the best tomahawk steak ever!
“The perfect tomahawk steak is a culinary masterpiece, a harmonious blend of tender texture and bold, beefy flavor.”
Additional Recipes and Resources
If you’ve enjoyed learning how to grill the perfect tomahawk steak, be sure to check out these other delicious grilled steak recipes and resources. They will help you expand your culinary skills. From juicy steak cooking methods to a comprehensive steak doneness guide, there’s something for every steak lover.
Explore More Delicious Steak Recipes
- Grilled Cowboy Chop (Double Cut Ribeye)
- Grilled T-Bone Steaks with Olive Oil, Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary Marinade
- Grilled Short Ribs with Smoked Spanish Paprika Rub
- Grilled Skirt Steak Tacos with Jalapeños and Onions
- Grilled Ham with Honey-Bourbon Glaze
Dive deeper into the world of steak by exploring our comprehensive guide on understanding different steak doneness levels and how to achieve them. Mastering the perfect doneness is key to unlocking the true flavor and tenderness of your steak.
“Grilling is not about the food, it’s about the flavor. And that flavor comes from the grill.”
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting your journey, these recipes and resources are sure to inspire your next grilled steak creation. Embrace the art of steak preparation and unlock a world of mouthwatering possibilities.
Where to Find Tomahawk Steaks
Tips for Sourcing Quality Tomahawk Steaks
Tomahawk steaks might not be easy to find at your local grocery store. But, there are a few ways to get your hands on this impressive cut. Start by building a relationship with your trusted butcher. They might be able to order a whole rib roast and cut it into tomahawk steaks for you.
You can also check with specialty meat purveyors or online retailers that focus on high-quality beef. These places often carry unique cuts like tomahawk steaks.
When you buy tomahawk steaks, look for USDA Choice or Prime grade. This ensures the meat is flavorful and tender. The steak is usually 2 inches thick and has a bone that’s 8 to 20 inches long. It’s big enough to feed two people, making it perfect for special occasions or backyard grilling.
Tomahawk steaks have become more popular in recent years. They’re loved by grillers and those who often visit steakhouse restaurants. By working with your local butcher or checking online specialty meat retailers, you can find high-quality tomahawk steaks. This will make your dining experience unforgettable.
FAQ
What is the ideal internal temperature for a medium-rare tomahawk steak?
What is the reverse sear method for cooking a tomahawk steak?
How long should you let a tomahawk steak rest before slicing and serving?
How can you elevate a grilled tomahawk steak?
Where can you find tomahawk steaks?
Source Links
- Tomahawk Steak on the Grill – Hey Grill, Hey – https://heygrillhey.com/tomahawk-steak-on-the-grill/
- The Best Tomahawk Steak – https://overthefirecooking.com/best-tomahawk-steak/
- How to Reverse Sear a Tomahawk Steak on the Grill — Smoke, Fire, Grill: The Smokehouse – https://www.smokefiregrill.ca/blog/how-to-reverse-sear-a-tomahawk-steak-on-the-grill
- How to Cook THE Perfect Tomahawk Steak – https://www.thespruceeats.com/tomahawk-rib-eye-steak-2313425
- Grilled Tomahawk Steak (Long Bone Ribeye, Reverse Seared) – https://www.dadcooksdinner.com/grilled-tomahawk-steak-long-bone-ribeye-reverse-seared/
- Grilled Tomahawk Steak – https://grillinwithdad.com/2024/01/grilled-tomahawk-steak/