How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak Gordon Ramsay Style
In this article, I’ll introduce you to the culinary genius that is Gordon Ramsay and his extraordinary recipe for cooking a Tomahawk steak. Gordon Ramsay is renowned for his exceptional recipes, and his method for preparing this delectable steak is no exception. I will guide you through meticulous techniques and share the tips, tricks, and nuances that make this recipe unique. By the end of this article, you’ll have a thorough understanding of Ramsay’s cooking method, ready to impress your dinner guests with a gourmet Tomahawk steak. Read more to discover the secrets behind this showstopper dish on any dining table.
Who is Gordon Ramsay?
World-renowned chef, television personality, and restaurateur Gordon Ramsay has established a formidable reputation in the culinary world. With his numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and popular TV shows like “Hell’s Kitchen” and “MasterChef,” Ramsay has stirred the global culinary pot with his talent, creativity, and fiery personality.
A deep respect marks his cooking style for ingredients, a keen understanding of flavor profiles, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Mastering a Gordon Ramsay recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about understanding the philosophy behind his culinary artistry.
In this blog post, we apply Ramsay’s culinary philosophy to one of his signature dishes: the Tomahawk steak. Let’s explore the journey of creating this masterpiece, starting with understanding a Tomahawk steak.
What is a Tomahawk Steak?
Before diving into the cooking process, it is essential to understand what a Tomahawk steak is and what makes it a gourmet delight. Named for its distinctive shape that resembles a tomahawk axe, this steak is essentially a rib eye with the bone left in, and the bone is usually long and Frenched (trimmed of meat and fat) to enhance the presentation.
The Tomahawk steak is known for its rich marbling, which leads to superior tenderness and flavor. This cut of beef is a favorite among steak lovers for its succulent, meaty taste and visually appealing presentation.
It’s essential to choose a good quality Tomahawk steak, as the quality of the meat plays a pivotal role in the outcome of the dish. Look for a steak with plenty of marbling; preferably, go for a grass-fed choice, as it tends to have a more robust flavor.
Why Cook a Tomahawk Steak Gordon Ramsay Style?
Gordon Ramsay’s method of cooking a Tomahawk steak is unique and promises an unparalleled flavor profile and tenderness. Unlike other cooking methods, Ramsay emphasizes the steak’s natural flavors rather than overpowering them with heavy sauces or marinades.
The beauty of learning “how to cook a Tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay” style lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It involves precise timing, temperature control, and critical techniques that bring out the steak’s best qualities.
Cooking a Tomahawk steak à la Ramsay isn’t just about the end product but the process. You’re not just cooking a steak; you’re creating a culinary experience that begins with choosing the steak and ends with the perfect slice on your plate.
Ingredients Required
Gordon Ramsay’s approach to cooking a Tomahawk steak relies on some key ingredients to enhance the natural flavor of the beef. The list is surprisingly simple: a good quality Tomahawk steak, olive oil, sea salt, freshly cracked pepper, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and butter.
Each ingredient serves a purpose. The olive oil helps seal the steak, the salt and pepper form a crust and enhance the beef’s natural flavors, the herbs add a subtle fragrance, and the butter adds richness and a silky finish.
While the ingredient list may seem minimal, the quality of each ingredient matters. For example, using freshly cracked pepper instead of pre-ground pepper can significantly affect flavor.
Essential Tools
In addition to ingredients, you’ll need a few essential tools to cook a Tomahawk steak à la Gordon Ramsay successfully. A cast-iron skillet is preferred for its heat retention properties. You’ll also need tongs to flip the steak, a spoon to baste the steak, a meat thermometer to check doneness, and a carving board for resting and slicing the steak.
These tools are not just for convenience; they contribute to cooking. The cast-iron skillet creates a beautiful sear, the tongs provide a secure grip on the steak, the spoon allows for even basting, and the meat thermometer ensures the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.
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Preparing the Steak
Proper preparation is a significant part of Ramsay’s cooking method, starting with how to handle the steak before it even touches the heat. The steak should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to come to room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This helps it cook evenly, preventing the outside from overcooking while the inside is still raw.
Once the steak is at room temperature, it’s time to season it. Ramsay recommends being generous with the seasoning – the salt and pepper should form a crust on the steak to enhance its flavor and texture. Remember to season the steak on all sides, not just the top and bottom.
Lastly, add olive oil to the steak. This not only helps in searing but also helps the seasoning stick to the steak. Now, the steak is ready to be cooked.
Cooking the Steak
Let’s get to the heart of the process – cooking the Tomahawk steak using Gordon Ramsay’s method. Start by heating your cast-iron skillet until it’s smoking hot. Then, place the steak in the pan and let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side. This creates a beautiful, flavorful crust on the steak.
Next, lower the heat and add the butter, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. As the butter melts, spoon it over the steak repeatedly. This technique, called basting, keeps the steak moist and infuses it with the flavors of butter and herbs.
The last step in the cooking process is to check for doneness. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak – for a medium-rare steak; the temperature should read 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Resting and Carving the Steak
After the steak is cooked, the process isn’t over – resting and carving the steak properly are crucial steps in Gordon Ramsay’s method. The steak should rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful when you cut into it.
When it’s time to carve the steak, slice it against the grain. This makes the steak easier to chew by shortening the muscle fibers. Each slice should be thick and juicy, a testament to your skill and beef quality.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking a Tomahawk steak like Gordon Ramsay let’s discuss some ideal side dishes and beverages to serve it with. Consider classic steak accompaniments like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad for side dishes. These sides balance out the steak’s richness and add various flavors and textures to the meal.
Regarding beverages, a bold red wine pairs beautifully with the Tomahawk steak. Consider a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot to complement the savory flavors of the beef.
Conclusion
Cooking a Tomahawk steak using Gordon Ramsay’s method might seem daunting initially, but with careful preparation and practice, you can bring a touch of gourmet cooking into your home kitchen. The process is as rewarding as the result, and the result is a succulent, flavorful steak that will impress.
From understanding the nature of a Tomahawk steak to mastering the techniques of searing, basting, and resting, you’ve embarked on a culinary journey guided by the expertise of Gordon Ramsay. Remember, as with any cooking endeavor, patience and passion are critical. So the next time you plan a special meal, keep this guide on “how to cook a Tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay” style handy and prepare for a memorable dining experience.
FAQs
Q1: What is a Tomahawk steak?
A: A Tomahawk steak is a beef cut that is essentially a ribeye with the bone left in. The steak gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles a tomahawk axe. This cut of meat is known for its rich marbling, leading to superior tenderness and flavor.
Q2: Why should I cook a Tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay style?
A: Gordon Ramsay’s method of cooking a Tomahawk steak emphasizes simplicity and respect for the ingredient. His recipe focuses on enhancing the steak’s natural flavors rather than overpowering them with heavy sauces or marinades. It involves precise timing, temperature control, and a few essential techniques that bring out the best qualities of the steak.
Q3: What ingredients do I need to cook a Tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay style?
A: The ingredients required are a Tomahawk steak, olive oil, sea salt, freshly cracked pepper, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and butter. The quality of each ingredient matters, so choose them carefully.
Q4: What tools do I need to cook a Tomahawk steak Gordon Ramsay style?
A: You’ll need a cast-iron skillet, tongs, a spoon, a meat thermometer, and a carving board. Each tool contributes to cooking and helps you achieve the best results.
Q5: How long should I let the steak rest before and after cooking?
A: Before cooking, the steak should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to come to room temperature for about an hour. After cooking, the steak should rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. These steps ensure that the steak cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Q6: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak – for a medium-rare steak; the temperature should read 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Q7: What should I serve with a Tomahawk steak?
A: Classic steak accompaniments like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad make great side dishes. For beverages, a bold red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the steak.
Hello, my name is Jim Andrews and I’m the chef behind Thai Berry Kitchen. I’ve been cooking for more than five years now and am passionate about all things related to Thai food. With each dish I create, my goal is to bring a unique blend of flavor, texture and aroma – that tantalizes your taste buds! My enthusiasm for cooking originated from a young age, as it was always something that connected me to my family. I love imparting knowledge on others through cooking classes and demonstrations, teaching everyone how to bring out the best in ingredients!
