Introduction: The Joy of Cooking a Tomahawk Steak
There’s something undeniably special about cooking a tomahawk steak. It’s not just any piece of meat—it’s a culinary experience, a centerpiece for your dining table. If you’ve ever seen a tomahawk steak, with its extravagant bone extending out like a warrior’s weapon, you can’t help but be impressed. Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself to something extraordinary, mastering how to cook a tomahawk steak will surely elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests.
In this guide, I’ll take you through every step of preparing and cooking a tomahawk steak—from selecting the right cut to grilling, pan-searing, and even oven-baking it to perfection. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge and confidence you need to create a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality steak right at home.
What is a Tomahawk Steak?
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what makes a tomahawk steak stand out from the crowd. This premium cut is a showstopper, not only in size but in flavor and tenderness as well.
Understanding the Tomahawk Cut
A tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye steak with the bone left long, resembling a tomahawk axe, hence the name. The bone is typically Frenched—meaning the meat and fat around the bone are cleaned, leaving a long, exposed bone that adds to its dramatic appearance. This impressive presentation makes the tomahawk steak a favorite at upscale steakhouses and a perfect choice for those special moments.
Why It’s So Special
The unique cut not only makes for a jaw-dropping visual, but it also contributes to the flavor and tenderness. Since the tomahawk is a ribeye, it benefits from the marbling of fat, which melts during cooking, creating a juicy and flavorful steak. The bone acts as a natural heat conductor, allowing for an even cook and helping to retain moisture.
Size and Appearance
Tomahawk steaks are usually cut from the rib section of the cow and can weigh anywhere from 30 to 45 ounces, making them large enough to feed two or even three people. The bone itself can extend up to 6-8 inches, adding to its imposing and impressive appearance on your plate.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
Not all tomahawk steaks are created equal, so it’s crucial to choose a high-quality cut to ensure a fantastic result. The right steak can make all the difference in how your meal turns out.
Look for Marbling
Marbling refers to the streaks of fat within the muscle tissue, and the more marbling a steak has, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Therefore, when selecting your tomahawk, look for a steak that has a good amount of marbling throughout the meat. This fat will melt during cooking, giving the steak its signature juiciness and rich flavor.
Bone Length and Thickness
The bone of a tomahawk steak should be long enough to create the dramatic “axe” appearance. Look for a cut where the bone is at least 6 inches long, with the meat surrounding it thick enough to give you a juicy steak after cooking.
Quality Labels
Tomahawk steaks can come from various quality grades, including USDA Prime, Choice, or Select. USDA Prime is the highest grade and will offer the best marbling and flavor. However, if you’re on a budget, USDA Choice is also a great option for achieving a high-quality result without breaking the bank.
Freshness Matters
Always buy your tomahawk steak from a reputable butcher or supermarket that ensures fresh meat. Fresh steaks will have a bright red color, and the texture should be firm to the touch. Avoid any cuts that show signs of browning or have a sour smell, as these are indicators of aging.
Preparing a Tomahawk Steak: Key Steps to Take
Once you’ve selected your tomahawk steak, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Proper preparation ensures that your steak is seasoned well and cooked to perfection.
Seasoning and Marinating
For the best flavor, season your tomahawk steak generously. A simple seasoning of salt and freshly ground pepper can bring out the natural flavors of the meat. If you want to add some extra flair, a marinade can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with additional flavors.
Simple Seasoning:
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Basic Marinade Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Black pepper
To marinate, simply rub the marinade mixture over the steak and let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Alternatively, dry brining—salting the steak and letting it rest for several hours—can also improve flavor and tenderness by drawing moisture into the meat and enhancing its natural taste.
Resting the Steak Before Cooking
Once your steak is seasoned or marinated, let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures that the steak cooks more evenly and helps to prevent it from becoming too tough when you start the cooking process.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp Knife: For trimming any excess fat or silverskin from the steak.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to the perfect level of doneness.
- Grill or Cast Iron Skillet: Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, a good-quality grill or skillet is essential for searing the steak to perfection.
Different Cooking Methods for Tomahawk Steak
There are several ways to cook a tomahawk steak, and each method can deliver excellent results. The key is to select the right technique based on your preferences and the tools you have available.
Grilling the Perfect Tomahawk Steak
Grilling is perhaps the most popular method for cooking tomahawk steak, especially when you want that smoky flavor and beautiful sear.
Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to around 450°F (232°C) for high-heat grilling. This will ensure that you get a good sear on the steak while maintaining a juicy interior.
Direct vs. Indirect Heat: When grilling, you’ll want to use both direct and indirect heat. Begin by searing the steak over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Then, move the steak to indirect heat to finish cooking until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Grilling Time for Different Doneness Levels:
- Rare (120-125°F): Grill for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Medium-Rare (130-135°F): Grill for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Medium (140-145°F): Grill for 6-7 minutes per side.
Resting: Once you’ve grilled your steak to the desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and tender.
Pan-Searing and Oven-Baking
If you prefer to cook indoors, pan-searing followed by oven-baking is a great option. This method offers excellent control over the cooking temperature and can give you a perfect sear.
Sear the Steak: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add a little oil. Sear the tomahawk steak for 3-4 minutes per side until you achieve a nice golden crust.
Finish in the Oven: After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Roast the steak for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
Internal Temperature Guide:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Reverse Searing Method
For the ultimate control over your steak’s doneness, try the reverse sear method. This involves slowly cooking the steak at a low temperature before finishing it with a sear to develop a crispy, caramelized crust.
Slow Cook: Preheat your oven to 250°F (121°C). Cook the tomahawk steak in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for rare or 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Sear at the End: Once your steak has reached the desired temperature, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and sear each side for 2-3 minutes to form a rich crust.
Recipes for Tomahawk Steak
Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for grilling a tomahawk steak:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomahawk steak | 1 (2-3 lbs) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh rosemary | 2 sprigs |
| Garlic (smashed) | 3 cloves |
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
- Preheat the grill to 450°F (232°C).
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Optionally, marinate with garlic and rosemary.
- Grill the steak over direct heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Move the steak to indirect heat and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
- Rest the steak for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Common Mistakes When Cooking a Tomahawk Steak
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your tomahawk steak turns out perfectly every time.
Overcooking
Overcooking your steak can result in a dry and tough texture. To prevent this, always use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature closely. Aim for rare, medium-rare, or medium doneness, depending on your preference.
Skipping the Resting Period
After cooking, always let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
How to Serve and Pair a Tomahawk Steak
A tomahawk steak isn’t just about the meat—it’s about the entire dining experience. Let’s explore some of the best ways to serve and pair your steak.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve your tomahawk steak with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
- Sauces: Elevate the flavor with a rich garlic butter sauce, chimichurri, or a creamy béarnaise sauce.
Wine Pairing
- Red Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or a full-bodied Merlot pair wonderfully with the rich flavor of a tomahawk steak.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Dark fruit juices like pomegranate or a rich, non-alcoholic red wine can complement the steak’s depth of flavor.
FAQ About How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak
- How long should I cook a tomahawk steak? The cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. For a 2-inch thick tomahawk, grill for about 5-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- What temperature should a tomahawk steak be when done? For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 140-145°F.
- Can I cook a tomahawk steak in a pan? Yes, you can pan-sear the steak and finish it in the oven. This method is excellent for controlling the cooking temperature.
- How do I season a tomahawk steak? A simple seasoning of salt and freshly ground pepper is sufficient, but you can also use marinades or dry brining for added flavor.
- How do I store leftover tomahawk steak? Wrap the steak tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Can I grill a tomahawk steak with the bone on? Yes, the bone adds flavor and creates an impressive presentation. Ensure it’s cooked properly by monitoring the internal temperature.
Conclusion: Perfect Your Tomahawk Steak Skills
Congratulations! You now have all the tools and knowledge you need to cook a tomahawk steak like a pro. Whether you choose to grill, pan-sear, or use the reverse sear method, cooking this stunning cut of meat is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your own steak cravings. So, fire up that grill, heat that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy tomahawk steak!