Tomahawk Steak on the Grill: Perfect Cook Guide

There’s something about a tomahawk steak that screams “special occasion.” Maybe it’s the dramatic bone, jutting out like a warrior’s weapon. Maybe it’s the sheer size, a hefty slab of meat promising a feast. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the allure of this culinary showstopper. But, let’s be honest, grilling a tomahawk can be a little daunting. It's not your everyday burger, that's for sure! But, fear not, my friend! I’m here to share my hard-earned wisdom, gleaned from years of grilling battles and celebratory feasts. Let’s dive in!

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Tomahawk

The first step on this culinary journey is selecting the right tomahawk. You want a cut that’s going to be bursting with flavour and juicy as all get-out. A good tomahawk is a masterpiece in itself, and you deserve the best.

Where to Buy

Your Friendly Local Butcher: I always recommend a good butcher. They’re experts in meat, so you can tell them what you want (a juicy, well-marbled tomahawk, for example) and they can guide you to the perfect piece. They’ll also have the inside scoop on the freshest cuts.

The Supermarket: Sometimes you just don’t have the time to trek out to a specialist. In that case, your supermarket’s meat section can be a decent backup. Just make sure you check the packaging for things like "dry-aged" or "wet-aged.” This is a clue about the flavour. Dry-aged beef is often more intense, while wet-aged is more tender.

The Tomahawk Checklist

Marbling, Marbling, Marbling! That’s the key to a juicy, flavourful steak. Look for a piece with good marbling, those little streaks of fat running through the meat.

Thickness is Key: You want a good thick steak, at least 1.5 inches thick, to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.

That Bone, Oh That Bone: The bone isn’t just for show; it adds extra flavour. Choose a steak with a good-looking bone, one that’s properly trimmed and free from any signs of damage.

Check the Colour: A healthy tomahawk steak should be a deep, rich red. Avoid any steaks that have a brown or grey colour - it might mean they’ve been sitting around a bit too long.

(Part 2) Prepping the Tomahawk for Glory

Okay, so you’ve chosen your weapon, now it’s time to get it ready for battle!

Room Temperature Rules

This might sound strange, but it's absolutely crucial: take the steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to grill. This allows the steak to come to room temperature, which ensures it cooks more evenly. It won’t go off in that time, I promise.

Seasoning: The Magic Touch

This is where you can get creative! There’s no one right way to season a tomahawk. It’s your canvas, and you’re the artist! Here are some of my go-to combinations:

Salt and Pepper: You can’t go wrong with this classic combo. It’s the foundation for any good steak.

Garlic Power: Garlic powder adds a lovely punch of flavour and aroma. Just sprinkle a generous pinch over the steak.

Paprika Power: Paprika adds a lovely reddish hue and a touch of smokiness.

Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano adds a wonderful touch of freshness.

Seasoning Tips

Salt Early: Salt the steak about 30 minutes before grilling. It helps draw out moisture and create a delicious crust.

Don't Overdo It: Go easy on the seasoning! A little goes a long way, and you don’t want to mask the natural flavour of the steak.

Post-Grill Seasoning: For a more intense flavour, try seasoning the steak after it’s cooked.

(Part 3) Fire Up the Grill!

Hot, Hot, Hot!

A tomahawk steak deserves a roaring fire! You want a grill that’s blazing hot, around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit. Get those coals glowing bright and ready to give your steak a beautiful sear.

Cleaning is a Must

Before you toss your precious tomahawk onto the grill, make sure it’s clean! Scrape off any leftover bits from previous grilling sessions. You want a pristine surface for your steak, free from unwanted flavours that might mingle with your masterpiece.

(Part 4) Grilling the Tomahawk Steak

On the Grill It Goes

With your grill hot and ready, it’s time to get your tomahawk on! Place the steak directly over the coals and let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a beautiful, brown crust.

Rotating for Even Cooking

After the initial sear, rotate the steak by 90 degrees and sear the edges for about a minute. This creates a lovely crosshatch pattern and helps to ensure your steak cooks evenly.

Watch and Learn

This is the part where you become a grill master! Keep a watchful eye on your steak and adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness. Remember, it’s always better to undercook than overcook!

Cooking Time Guide

You’ll need a reliable meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. Here’s a general guide for different levels of doneness:

grilling tips for Success

Don't Fear the Flip: Flip that steak! You want to cook it evenly on all sides.

Rest is Essential: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.

(Part 5) Serving Up Your Triumph

The Grand Finale

Your steak is resting, and it’s time to create the perfect stage for your culinary masterpiece. I like to keep things simple and let the steak be the star of the show. Here are some ideas for your side dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are excellent companions for a tomahawk steak.

Potato Power: Classic potato wedges are a great way to soak up those delicious steak juices.

Green Goodness: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a light and refreshing touch.

Sauces: The Finishing Touch

Some people love sauces, some don't. It's totally up to you! If you’re going for a sauce, here are a couple of my favourites:

Bearnaise Sauce: Rich, tangy, and a classic French pairing for steak.

Red Wine Sauce: A robust and flavourful sauce that complements the steak perfectly.

Peppercorn Punch: For those who like a bit of spice, peppercorn sauce is a great choice.

(Part 6) Tomahawk Steak Wisdom

Plan Your Attack

A successful tomahawk steak grilling experience is all about planning ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute to gather your ingredients!

Patience is a Virtue

Give yourself plenty of time! Grilling a tomahawk steak takes a bit longer than a standard steak, so don’t rush it. Let the process unfold.

Embrace the Experiment

Remember, there’s no one right way to grill a tomahawk steak. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and side dishes to find the combinations you love best.

(Part 7) Troubleshooting: Fixing Those Grilling Mishaps

Burnt or Undercooked?

We’ve all been there. The steak might get a little too crispy or not quite cooked through. Here’s what to do:

Burnt to a Crisp: If the outside of your steak is burnt, you can try slicing off the burnt parts. If it’s too far gone, you might have to start over.

Undercooked? Back on the Grill! If your steak is undercooked, you can always put it back on the grill for a few more minutes. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

The Tough Steak Challenge

Nobody likes a tough steak! If your tomahawk turns out tough, it might be due to:

Overcooked: Overcooked steak is dry and tough. Cook it to your desired doneness, but don’t go overboard!

Meat Quality: Sometimes, the quality of the meat can impact the tenderness. Look for well-marbled steaks with a good amount of fat.

(Part 8) FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

How long should I grill a tomahawk steak?

The grilling time varies depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

What can I do with leftover tomahawk steak?

Leftover tomahawk steak can be used in salads, sandwiches, or even stir-fries. Get creative!

Can I grill a tomahawk steak in a gas grill?

Absolutely! Gas grills work just as well as charcoal grills. Just make sure the grill is hot enough before you start grilling.

What is the best way to store a tomahawk steak?

Store your tomahawk steak in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should last for 3-5 days.

What is the best way to clean a tomahawk steak bone?

If you want to save the bone for a bone broth or soup, you can clean it by scraping off any remaining meat and rinsing it thoroughly under cold water.

And there you have it! Remember, practice makes perfect! With a little patience and experimentation, you’ll be grilling tomahawk steaks like a pro in no time. Enjoy the journey, have fun, and savour every delicious bite!