How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak Gordon Ramsay: The tomahawk steak, with its impressive bone-in presentation and robust flavors, is a prime cut of meat that deserves attention. Gordon Ramsay, the renowned chef known for his precision and passion for culinary excellence, brings out the best in this iconic steak. Here’s how you can cook a tomahawk steak following Ramsay’s style for a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
What is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye beef steak with a long, French-trimmed bone resembling a tomahawk axe, hence the name. It’s thick, juicy, and tender, packed with a rich, beefy flavor. Due to its size and presentation, it’s often considered a show-stopper at gatherings and special dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 large tomahawk steak (about 2 inches thick)
- Salt (Kosher or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil
- Butter (around 2 tablespoons)
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
- Fresh rosemary (a few sprigs)
- 4 cloves of garlic, smashed
- Optional: Dijon mustard (for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cooking a Tomahawk Steak (Gordon Ramsay Style)
1. Preparation
Start by taking your tomahawk steak out of the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak.
While the steak is resting, season it generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gordon Ramsay emphasizes the importance of seasoning, so don’t be shy with it! This will create a beautiful crust and enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll be finishing the steak in the oven after searing it to perfection.
3. Sear the Steak
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up.
Place the tomahawk steak in the pan and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Don’t forget to sear the edges of the steak too – use tongs to hold the steak upright and sear along the bone and the fatty parts.
4. Baste with Butter and Herbs
Once you’ve seared all sides, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, fresh thyme, and rosemary to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and baste the steak by spooning the melted butter and herbs over it. This step infuses the steak with incredible flavors and adds richness.
Continue basting for 1-2 minutes.
5. Finish in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should read 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
If you prefer the steak medium, leave it in the oven until the temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Rest the Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting the steak is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
7. Carve and Serve
After resting, slice the tomahawk steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the steak before slicing, a trick Gordon Ramsay sometimes uses to enhance the richness of the beef.
Learn More Recipe: How to cook flounder
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Tomahawk Steak
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the steak reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
- Let the steak rest: Always rest your steak to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Sear over high heat: This locks in the moisture and creates a beautiful crust on the steak.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: Generously seasoning your steak helps to bring out the rich flavors of the meat.
Learn More Recipe: How to Cook Crayfish
FAQ About Cooking Tomahawk Steak Gordon Ramsay Style
1. What temperature should I cook a tomahawk steak to?
For medium-rare, cook the tomahawk steak to an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C). Always use a meat thermometer to get precise results.
2. How long should I rest the tomahawk steak?
Rest the tomahawk steak for about 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making the steak more flavorful and juicy.
3. Can I cook the tomahawk steak without an oven?
Yes, you can cook a tomahawk steak entirely on the stovetop by searing it and then lowering the heat to cook it through. However, finishing it in the oven helps cook the steak evenly and gives it a more tender texture.
4. What sides pair best with a tomahawk steak?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly with the richness of the steak. You can also serve it with a garlic herb butter or chimichurri sauce for extra flavor.
5. How do I know when the steak is done?
The best way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For rare, the internal temperature should be 120°F (49°C); for medium-rare, 130°F (54°C); for medium, 140°F (60°C).
Learn More Recipe: How to cook wings in air fryer
Conclusion
Cooking a tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay style brings out the best in this magnificent cut of meat. With the right seasoning, proper searing, and attention to detail, you can achieve a perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality steak at home. Just remember to use quality ingredients, take your time with the process, and let the steak rest before serving. Enjoy!
Learn More Recipe: How to cook turkey bacon