If you’ve ever come across a tomahawk steak, you’ve probably noticed that it’s not your average piece of beef. With its long, bone-in ribeye cut, this steak looks like it belongs on the grill of a master chef. However, don’t worry – cooking it isn’t as hard as it seems. With the right techniques, you can easily make this restaurant-worthy steak at home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing, cooking, and serving a tomahawk steak. From selecting the best cut to cooking it perfectly, we’ve got you covered.
What is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is a massive, thick-cut bone-in ribeye steak with an extended bone that gives it its signature look. The long bone, resembling a tomahawk axe, not only makes the steak look impressive but also enhances the flavor by helping retain moisture during cooking.
The size of the steak, usually around two inches thick and weighing over two pounds, makes it perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.
Why It’s Special
The tomahawk steak gets its flavor from its marbling – the streaks of fat running through the meat. As the fat melts into the steak during cooking, it creates a juicy, flavorful experience in every bite. When cooked properly, this steak has a rich, buttery taste that sets it apart from other cuts.
When choosing a steak, it’s important to opt for high-quality, ethically sourced beef. A great source for premium grass-fed tomahawk steaks is US Wellness Meats, where you can find top-quality cuts delivered right to your door.
Why Choose a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Here’s why you should consider cooking one:
- Flavor: The high-fat content (also known as marbling) gives the steak a rich, beefy flavor. When you bite into it, you get a juicy and tender texture that’s hard to beat.
- Presentation: The long bone makes this steak stand out on the plate. It’s an eye-catcher at any gathering, making it perfect for special occasions.
- Perfect for Sharing: Because of its large size, a single tomahawk steak can serve two or more people, making it ideal for family dinners or BBQs.
For those looking to make an ethical choice while getting the best flavor, consider ordering from Primal Pastures, a trusted source of pasture-raised meats.
How to Choose the Best Tomahawk Steak
Not all tomahawk steaks are created equal, so here’s how to pick the best one for your next meal.
1. Look for Marbling
Marbling is the fat that runs through the meat. The more marbling a steak has, the more flavorful and tender it will be. When selecting your steak, make sure to choose one with plenty of visible fat streaks.
2. Opt for Thickness
A good tomahawk steak should be at least two inches thick. A thicker steak cooks more evenly and allows for a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
3. Freshness
Always go for steaks that have a bright red color and are firm to the touch. This ensures that the meat is fresh and ready to cook. If you’re buying from a butcher, don’t hesitate to ask when the steak was cut. Freshness plays a huge role in the flavor and texture of the steak.
Preparing a Tomahawk Steak
Preparation is just as important as cooking when it comes to making the perfect tomahawk steak. Follow these steps to get your steak ready for the grill or oven.
1. Bring to Room Temperature
Before cooking, let your steak sit at room temperature for about 60 minutes. This ensures that it cooks evenly, so the outside doesn’t get overcooked while the inside remains underdone.
2. Season Generously
A tomahawk steak is thick and can handle a lot of seasoning. First, pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Then, season it generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You can also rub the steak with a bit of olive oil or beef tallow for extra flavor.
3. Use Compound Butter
For an extra burst of flavor, you can prepare compound butter. This is simply softened butter mixed with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic. You can spread it over the steak before and after cooking to enhance its flavor and give it a rich, buttery crust.
Cooking Methods for Tomahawk Steak
There are a few ways to cook a tomahawk steak, and the best method depends on what equipment you have available and your personal preferences. Below are three popular methods: grilling, oven (reverse sear), and smoking.
Grilling a Tomahawk Steak
Grilling is one of the best ways to cook a tomahawk steak. The high heat of the grill gives the steak a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Steps to Grill a Tomahawk Steak:
- Preheat your charcoal or gas grill to 400°F.
- Sear the steak over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side to develop a nice crust.
- Move the steak to indirect heat, cover the grill, and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- 110°F for rare
- 120°F for medium-rare
- 130°F for medium
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Oven Cooking (Reverse Sear Method)
The reverse sear method ensures even cooking and gives you a perfectly crispy exterior.
Steps to Reverse Sear a Tomahawk Steak:
- Preheat your oven to 275°F.
- Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 110°F (about 30-40 minutes).
- Heat a cast iron skillet with butter and herbs (rosemary, thyme) and sear the steak over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a crust.
- Rest the steak for 10 minutes before slicing.
Smoking Tomahawk Steak
Smoking is a great option if you love the flavor of smoky meat. It’s slower, but the results are worth the wait.
Steps to Smoke a Tomahawk Steak:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
- Season the steak and place it in the smoker.
- Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 110°F.
- Finish by searing the steak on high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side to get a nice crust.
Finishing Your Steak
After cooking your tomahawk steak, it’s time to add the finishing touches. One of the best ways to enhance the flavor is by using compound butter. Melt the butter with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, and drizzle it over the steak while it rests.
Letting your steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and juicy when you slice it.
How to Slice a Tomahawk Steak
To slice your steak, first cut the meat away from the bone. Then, slice the steak against the grain. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.
What to Serve with Tomahawk Steak
To complete your meal, pair your tomahawk steak with some delicious side dishes. Here are a few classic steakhouse sides that complement the rich, beefy flavor of the steak.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a perfect match for a juicy steak.
- Creamed Spinach: This rich, savory dish balances the meat’s strong flavors with some creamy greens.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add freshness to your plate.
Wine Pairing
A tomahawk steak pairs well with bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These wines have strong flavors that complement the rich, fatty steak.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Tomahawk Steak
If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly without losing any of that delicious flavor.
Storage
Store your leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. Frozen steaks can last up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place your steak on a baking sheet and warm it in a 375°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving the steak, as this can make the meat tough and chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Steak Cut?
Yes! While the tomahawk steak is known for its long bone, you can use the same cooking methods with other cuts like ribeye or porterhouse. These cuts also have plenty of marbling and flavor.
How Do I Know When My Steak is Done?
The best way to know if your steak is done is by using a meat thermometer. Here are the ideal internal temperatures:
- Rare: 110°F
- Medium-Rare: 120°F
- Medium: 130°F
For reliable results, use a high-quality thermometer like the Thermapen from ThermoWorks.
Can I Cook a Tomahawk Steak Without a Grill?
Absolutely! You can use the reverse sear method in the oven or cook your steak on a stovetop in a cast iron skillet. Just make sure you sear the steak at high heat to develop that beautiful crust.
Conclusion
A tomahawk steak isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience. From the impressive presentation to the rich, buttery flavor, this steak is a showstopper. Whether you’re grilling, reverse searing, or smoking, the tips and techniques in this guide will help you cook the perfect tomahawk steak every time.
So next time you’re looking for a meal that wows your guests or simply want to treat yourself, give the tomahawk steak a try. Follow these steps, and you’ll be serving a restaurant-quality steak in no time!
What Is the White Stuff Coming Out of My Chicken?