Cooking a tomahawk steak can be a daunting task, especially if you’re looking to achieve a perfect, restaurant-quality dish. However, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can create a mouth-watering tomahawk steak that would make even Gordon Ramsay proud. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook a tomahawk steak like a pro.
Understanding the Tomahawk Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what a tomahawk steak is. A tomahawk steak is a type of ribeye steak that is cut from the rib section of the cow. It’s characterized by its long, curved bone and tender, flavorful meat. The tomahawk steak is often referred to as a “show-stopping” steak due to its impressive size and presentation.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
When selecting a tomahawk steak, look for the following characteristics:
- A good balance of marbling (fat distribution) throughout the meat
- A rich, beefy color
- A firm, springy texture
- A long, curved bone that’s at least 5-6 inches long
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Before cooking the tomahawk steak, it’s crucial to prepare it properly. Here’s what you need to do:
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the meat to relax and cook more evenly.
Seasoning the Steak
Sprinkle both sides of the tomahawk steak with a generous amount of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (such as garlic powder, paprika, or thyme). Make sure to season the steak liberally, as this will enhance the flavor.
Oil and Aromatics
Drizzle a small amount of oil over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use any type of oil you like, but Gordon Ramsay recommends using a neutral-tasting oil like canola or grapeseed. Add a few aromatics like thyme, rosemary, or garlic to the oil for added flavor.
Cooking the Tomahawk Steak
Now it’s time to cook the tomahawk steak. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook it to perfection:
Searing the Steak
Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat until it’s almost smoking. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Place the tomahawk steak in the pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You want to get a nice crust on the steak, so don’t be afraid to get a bit aggressive with the heat.
Finishing the Steak
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, it should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C).
Cooking Times and Temperatures
Here’s a rough guide to cooking times and temperatures for a tomahawk steak:
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
| — | — | — |
| Grilling | 5-7 minutes per side | 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare |
| Pan-searing | 3-5 minutes per side | 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium |
| Oven broiling | 10-15 minutes | 150-155°F (66-68°C) for medium-well |
Resting the Steak
Once the tomahawk steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it more tender and flavorful.
Slicing the Steak
After the steak has rested, slice it against the grain using a sharp knife. You can slice it into thin strips or thick slabs, depending on your preference.
Serving the Tomahawk Steak
Finally, it’s time to serve the tomahawk steak. Here are a few ideas for serving:
- Serve the steak on its own with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Top the steak with a compound butter or sauce, such as Béarnaise or peppercorn.
- Serve the steak with a side of sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Gordon Ramsay’s Tips for Serving
Gordon Ramsay recommends serving the tomahawk steak with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. He also suggests topping the steak with a compound butter or sauce to add extra flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking a tomahawk steak like Gordon Ramsay requires a bit of practice and patience, but with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a truly show-stopping dish. Remember to choose the right tomahawk steak, prepare it properly, and cook it to perfection. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to add extra flavor to your dish. With a bit of practice, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
Final Tips from Gordon Ramsay
- Always use high-quality ingredients, including fresh vegetables and premium meats.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and sauces.
- Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at cooking a tomahawk steak don’t turn out perfectly.
- Always let the steak rest before slicing and serving.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the steak, and slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness.
What is a Tomahawk Steak and Why is it Special?
A Tomahawk Steak is a type of ribeye steak that is cut from the rib section of a cow. It is characterized by its long, curved bone that resembles a tomahawk axe, hence its name. This type of steak is special because of its unique appearance and its rich, beefy flavor.
The Tomahawk Steak is also known for its tender and juicy texture, which is due to the fact that it is cut from the rib section, which is a more tender part of the cow. Additionally, the bone that is left intact during the cutting process adds to the flavor and tenderness of the steak, making it a favorite among steak lovers.
What are the Essential Tools and Ingredients Needed to Cook a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay?
To cook a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay, you will need a few essential tools and ingredients. These include a high-quality Tomahawk Steak, a cast-iron or stainless steel pan, a thermometer, a pair of tongs, and a sharp knife. You will also need some oil, salt, and pepper to season the steak.
In addition to these basic ingredients, you may also want to consider adding some aromatics such as garlic, thyme, and rosemary to add extra flavor to the steak. Gordon Ramsay is known for his emphasis on using high-quality ingredients, so be sure to choose the best ingredients you can find.
How Do I Season a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay?
To season a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay, you will want to start by sprinkling both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. Gordon Ramsay is a big believer in the importance of seasoning, and he always emphasizes the need to season the steak liberally.
Next, you can add any additional seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs. Gordon Ramsay often uses a combination of thyme, rosemary, and garlic to add extra flavor to his steaks. Be sure to rub the seasonings all over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
What is the Best Way to Sear a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay?
To sear a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay, you will want to heat a cast-iron or stainless steel pan over high heat until it is almost smoking. Then, add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
Next, place the steak in the pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. Gordon Ramsay is a big believer in the importance of getting a good sear on the steak, as this is what adds flavor and texture. Be sure to not move the steak too much during the searing process, as this can prevent it from developing a good crust.
How Do I Finish Cooking a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay?
To finish cooking a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay, you will want to transfer the steak to a preheated oven and cook it to your desired level of doneness. Gordon Ramsay recommends cooking the steak to medium-rare, as this is when it is most tender and flavorful.
To cook the steak to medium-rare, you will want to cook it in the oven for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the oven when it reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
How Do I Let a Tomahawk Steak Rest like Gordon Ramsay?
To let a Tomahawk Steak rest like Gordon Ramsay, you will want to remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack or plate. Then, cover the steak with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
Gordon Ramsay emphasizes the importance of letting the steak rest, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness. During this time, the steak will also retain its heat, making it perfect for serving.
How Do I Slice and Serve a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay?
To slice and serve a Tomahawk Steak like Gordon Ramsay, you will want to slice the steak against the grain using a sharp knife. Gordon Ramsay recommends slicing the steak into thin slices, as this makes it easier to serve and eat.
To serve the steak, place it on a plate and add any additional toppings or sauces you like. Gordon Ramsay often serves his steaks with a simple sauce made from butter, garlic, and herbs, which adds extra flavor and richness to the dish.