As the sun radiates its warm, inviting glow, the mouthwatering aroma of seared beef on a hot grill wafts through the summer air, making hearts race in anticipation. In the great British summer, there’s nothing more delightful than enjoying a succulent steak straight off the BBQ. But let’s talk about taking your BBQ game up a notch. It’s time to break away from the commonplace cuts of beef steak found at supermarkets and dive into the world of prime steak cuts that turn your backyard BBQ into a gourmet experience.
Stepping Up Your BBQ Game with Prime Steak Cuts
Trust us when we say that the right cut of steak can take your BBQ from good to legendary. It’s about exploring beyond what’s available at your local supermarket and turning to trusted local butchers, like a local “Farm to Plate” style butchery. We have one in Huntingdon and I bloody love it. Here, the magic unfolds as the butcher skilfully carves out whatever cut you desire. “Top-Sirloin please,” I say, “ two fingers thick !”
Not only is this process more rewarding, it’s often more economical than retail stores, and the quality is incomparable. Let’s dive into the top 5 cuts of beef steak that can elevate your BBQ experience:
Remember, there’s no greater joy than a perfectly cooked steak on a sunny day.
Every Bloke Everywhere
1. Ribeye Steak: The King of Marbling
Hailing from the rib section of the cow, the Ribeye steak boasts an unbeatable combination of tenderness and flavour. It’s this cut’s rich marbling that sets it apart, guaranteeing a juicy, flavourful result every time. Its robust flavour can be best enjoyed with minimal seasoning and cooked to a perfect medium-rare finish. Remember to let it rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Consider basting your ribeye with butter and fresh herbs in the last few minutes of cooking to further enrich its flavour.
2. Tenderloin/Filet Mignon: The Epitome of Tenderness
Cut from the long muscle along the cow’s spine, the Tenderloin, or more specifically, the Filet Mignon, is the tenderest cut of beef. Its lack of marbling requires it to be cooked quickly over high heat, and never beyond medium to retain its moisture. A well-rested filet mignon is a treat you don’t want to miss. To make the most of this steak, consider wrapping it in bacon before grilling. The bacon not only adds flavour but also helps prevent the steak from drying out.
3. New York Strip Steak: Texture Meets Taste
The New York Strip steak, sourced from the short loin of the cow, offers a fine-grained texture and a good amount of marbling, promising a juicy, delectable outcome. With its visible fat cap, this cut lends itself well to grilling, broiling, or pan-searing, and is best enjoyed medium-rare. To ensure a succulent result, let your steak reach room temperature before cooking, and remember to rest it after cooking to let the juices redistribute.
4. T-Bone/Porterhouse Steak: The Dual Delight
T-Bone and Porterhouse steaks are culinary showstoppers, offering you two cuts in one – the tenderloin and the strip steak. While both cuts are from the short loin, the Porterhouse boasts a larger piece of tenderloin. These steaks are best cooked on a grill or under a broiler, and they should be cooked to at least medium-rare. Due to their thickness, these steaks can be tricky to cook evenly, so consider reverse-searing – cook at a lower temperature first, then finish with a sear over high heat.
5. Tomahawk Steak: A Feast for the Eyes and Palate
The Tomahawk steak, with its dramatic, long bone, is a bone-in Ribeye that’s a sight to behold. Its rich marbling ensures a juicy, flavourful steak that’s sure to impress your guests. This cut is ideal for slow grilling or smoking and finishing with a high-heat sear. Cooking it to medium-rare will maximize its juiciness. Remember to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Sides: The Perfect Complement to Your Steak
No BBQ steak experience is complete without the perfect accompaniment. Throwing a potato, onion, sweet potato, or carrots wrapped in foil into the coals of your bbq is a foolproof way to add a wholesome, naturally flavourful side to your steak. Pair your steak with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz to complete the gourmet experience.
Elevating Your Summer BBQ
Summer BBQs are a cherished British tradition, and there’s no better way to level up your game than by treating yourself to the top cuts of beef steak. So, why wait? This summer, make the trip to your local butcher and step into a world of meaty goodness that’ll transform your BBQ experience forever.
