How to cook a tomahawk steak on a bbq
There’s nothing quite like cooking a tomahawk steak on a BBQ. Its rich marbling and bone-in presentation make it a showstopper on any grill. From its impressive size to the juicy and tender meat, this cut of beef is perfect for impressing your guests at a summer cookout. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, this guide will help you achieve the perfect tomahawk steak every time.
Before you start grilling, it’s important to choose the right tomahawk steak. Look for a steak that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and add flavor during cooking. Ideally, the steak should also have a thick, long bone handle, commonly known as the “tomahawk,” which not only adds an aesthetic touch but also helps to insulate the meat and prevent it from overcooking.
Once you’ve chosen your tomahawk steak, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure that the meat cooks more evenly. Season the steak generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, and let it sit at room temperature for another 10 minutes.
When it comes to grilling a tomahawk steak, indirect heat is key. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking. Once the grill is heated, place the steak on the cool side of the grill, with the bone facing towards the fire. This will help cook the steak evenly without charring the bone or burning the meat. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Before you embark on cooking the delicious tomahawk steak, there are a few essential steps to follow for the perfect preparation.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator around 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This will help ensure even cooking throughout the meat.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will promote a better sear and caramelization.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your favourite dry rub or seasoning mixture for extra flavour. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat on all sides.
- For added tenderness, you can choose to marinate the steak. Options include using a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs or a more flavourful marinade of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Cover the seasoned or marinated steak and let it sit at room temperature for another 30 minutes to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat.
- While waiting, preheat your BBQ grill to high heat. You want a hot grill to create a beautiful sear on the steak.
Marinating the Tomahawk Steak
Marinating the tomahawk steak is a crucial step in enhancing its flavor and ensuring a delicious and juicy final result. Here are a few steps to help you marinate the steak:
1. Choose Your Marinade
Selecting the right marinade is essential for infusing the tomahawk steak with delicious flavors. You can choose from various options such as traditional steak marinades, citrus-based marinades, or herb-infused marinades. Experiment to find the one that appeals to your taste buds.
2. Prepare the Marinade
Once you have selected your marinade, it’s time to prepare it. Combine all the desired ingredients in a bowl and mix well. For a traditional steak marinade, you can use ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Allow the flavors to blend together.
3. Preparing the Tomahawk Steak for Marinating
Prior to marinating, it is important to ensure that the tomahawk steak is properly prepared. Trim any excess fat around the edges to prevent flare-ups on the grill. Use a fork to puncture the meat, creating small holes that will allow the marinade to penetrate.
4. Marinate the Tomahawk Steak
Place the tomahawk steak in a container or a sealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that the steak is evenly coated. Seal the container or bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a stronger flavor. Flip the steak occasionally to allow the marinade to reach all sides of the meat.
5. Remove and Pat Dry
When it is time to cook the tomahawk steak, remove it from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Gently pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help create a better sear on the steak during grilling.
Now that you know how to marinate the tomahawk steak, you are ready to move on to the next steps in preparing and cooking this flavorful cut of meat.
Preheating the Barbecue
Before cooking your tomahawk steak on a barbecue, it’s crucial to preheat it to the right temperature. This step ensures that the steak cooks evenly and seals in those delicious flavors.
Start by cleaning the grill grates with a brush to remove any lingering residue. This helps prevent your steak from sticking to the grill and gives it perfect grill marks.
Set up a Two-Zone Fire
For the best results, create a two-zone fire. This technique allows you to sear the steak on high heat and then finish it with indirect heat for even cooking.
To set up a two-zone fire, first, ignite your charcoal or turn on your gas grill. Then, once the flames have died down and the coals are glowing hot, split them into two sections. Arrange the coals on one side to create a hot, direct heat zone, and leave the other side with no coals or burners for indirect heat.
Preheat the Grill
Close the lid and let the grill preheat for 10-15 minutes. This allows the entire cooking surface to reach the desired heat level, ensuring consistent cooking throughout.
You can identify the right cooking temperature by holding your hand a few inches above the grill grates. If you can only keep your hand there for a few seconds before pulling away, it’s in the range of 400-450°F (200-230°C), which is perfect for searing tomahawk steak.
Preheating the barbecue is a crucial step in getting the perfect sear and achieving that mouthwatering flavor and tenderness. So make sure to follow these guidelines before throwing your tomahawk steak on the grill!
Cooking the Tomahawk Steak
When it comes to cooking a tomahawk steak on a bbq, it’s essential to follow a few key steps to ensure a perfectly cooked steak that’s full of flavor. Here’s how to cook a tomahawk steak on a bbq:
1. Prepare the Steak
Before cooking the tomahawk steak, make sure to season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired dry rub or spices. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the seasonings penetrate the meat.
2. Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your bbq grill to high heat. This will help achieve a good sear on the steak.
3. Sear the Steak
Place the tomahawk steak on the hot grill grates and sear it for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until a brown crust forms. This high-temperature sear will help lock in the juices and create a flavorful charred exterior.
4. Move to Indirect Heat
After searing, move the tomahawk steak to indirect heat. Reduce the grill temperature to medium-low or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill. Then, cover the grill to create an oven-like environment.
5. Cook to Desired Doneness
Cook the steak to your desired doneness, using a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, cook it until the internal temperature reaches about 130°F (54°C). Remember to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone.
6. Rest the Steak
Once the tomahawk steak reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and results in a more tender and juicy steak.
You can tent the steak loosely with foil during the resting period to keep it warm, but avoid wrapping it tightly, as this can trap steam and make the crust soggy.
7. Slice and Serve
After the resting period, it’s time to slice and serve the tomahawk steak. Begin by slicing against the grain to ensure the most tender and flavorful meat. Serve the steak with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Now that you know how to cook a tomahawk steak on a bbq, you can impress your friends and family with a delicious and impressive meal.
Checking the Steak’s Temperature
One of the most important steps in cooking a tomahawk steak is ensuring that it reaches the desired level of doneness. Using a meat thermometer is a reliable way to check the internal temperature throughout the cooking process. Here is a breakdown of the recommended temperature ranges for different levels of doneness:
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 120-125°F (49-52°C) |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) |
| Medium | 140-145°F (60-63°C) |
| Medium Well | 150-155°F (66-68°C) |
| Well Done | 160°F and above (71°C) |
To measure the steak’s temperature, insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding the bone. Make sure the thermometer is not touching any fat or bone, as this can give inaccurate readings. Wait a few seconds for the thermometer to stabilize and note the temperature.
Once the steak has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serving and Enjoying the Steak
Once your tomahawk steak is cooked perfectly, it’s time to serve it and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors. Here are some tips for serving and savoring your delicious creation:
- Let the steak rest: Before slicing into the steak, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy outcome.
- Slice it right: When cutting the steak, make sure to slice it against the grain. This will help ensure each bite is as tender as possible.
- Garnish with herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, on top of the steak to add an extra pop of flavor.
- Pair with a sauce: Consider serving your tomahawk steak with a delicious sauce on the side. Traditional options like chimichurri or béarnaise sauce complement the rich flavors of the steak perfectly.
- Serve with sides: Complete the meal by pairing your steak with some mouthwatering sides. Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are all excellent choices.
- Enjoy with a glass of wine: Treat yourself to a glass of your favorite red wine to elevate the dining experience. The robust flavors of the wine will complement the steak perfectly.
Remember, the most important part is to savor the moment and enjoy each bite of your perfectly cooked tomahawk steak.
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
