Different Methods for Preparing 10 Various Steak Cuts
Rewritten Article:
Cooking a mouthwatering steak ain't rocket science, but selecting the right cut can leave your head spinning. We're spillin' the beans on the top 10 steak cuts to elevate your grill game – from the wallet-friendly flat iron to the indulgent filet mignon.
1. Filet Mignon
Known as tenderloin, filet mignon is your ticket to melt-in-your-mouth tender goodness – albeit an expensive one! This lean, tender cut offers a subtle, almost buttery flavor and is macho in size (2-3 inches thick). To safeguard its fine texture, sear until the outside is browned (2-4 minutes each side) and finish in the oven (5-10 minutes based on your preference). Forgo marinades, but don't shy away from bold sauces, like port wine reduction.
Recipe ideas
- Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter
- Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce
- Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction
2. T-Bones and Porterhouse Steak
T-bones and porterhouses are the perfect blend of steak juiciness and tenderness — think of it as getting the best of both worlds. These bone-in cuts are made from the front end of the steer's back, and opposite sides offer a taste of tenderloin and New York strip. The USDA requires porterhouses to have a tenderloin portion of 1.25 inches, making for a more substantial piece. Cook them quickly in a cast-iron skillet with plenty of olive oil, then finish on the grill for best results.
Recipe ideas
- Sous-vide Porterhouse Steak
- Bistecca Fiorentina
- Pan-Seared T-bone Steak
3. New York Strip Steak
Every good steakhouse's rep hinges on their skill with a New York strip steak. Also known as Kansas City strip, Manhattan, shell steak, strip loin, and club steak, the New York strip is knighted by its perfectly balanced marbling, which gives it a mouthwatering, rich flavor. Cook it rare or broil to let its tender texture shine.
Recipe ideas
- New York Strip Steak with Caramelized Shallots
- Bourbon Street New York Strip Steak Recipe
- New York Strip Steak with Garlic Butter
4. Rib-eye Steak
Tender and juicy, the rib-eye has been a steak lover's dream for eons. With heaps of fat marbling threaded throughout, the rib-eye's unique, gamey flavor is a coveted delight. Cook to a minimum or medium-rare internal temperature and baste with butter, garlic, and thyme for even more flavor.
Recipe ideas
- Grilled Rib-eye with Chile-Lime-Tequila Butter
- Rib-eye with Pineapple and Blue Cheese
- Garlic Butter Steak Bites
5. Tri-tip Steak
Cut from the bottom sirloin and sometimes referred to as Newport steak, Santa Maria steak, triangle roast, or bottom sirloin, tri-tip steak is shaped like an elf hat. Typically cooked in the Santa Maria style (dry-rubbed and grilled over oak chips) or marinated, this cut is a flexible option for any kitchen whiz.
Recipe ideas
- Argentine Grilled Tri-tip
- Harissa Marinated Tri-tip
- Hoisin Marinated Tri-tip
6. Flank Steak
Flank steaks, taken from the hardworking abdominal area, thrive under high heat and thin slicing. Thin-slice after butterflying to make rolling and stuffing easy. Drown it in a flavorful marinade for the ultimate taste explosion.
Recipe ideas
- Teriyaki Grilled Flank Steak
- Bourbon Marinated Flank Steak
- Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
7. Flat Iron Steak
Don't be fooled, cheap steak doesn't mean bad steak – especially when it's a flat iron! This budget-friendly cut is rectangular and uniformly thick and comes from the shoulder. Be cautious when cooking to avoid toughness, but marinate away to your heart's content.
Recipe ideas
- Perfect Flat Iron Steak
- Flat Iron Steak Grilled and Cooked in an Asian Marinade
- Balsamic Rosemary Flat Iron Steak
8. Hanger Steak
Another affordable cut, hanger steak comes from the lower belly area and is known for its thin, long, and ropy nature. Cook as you would flank steak, ensuring a quick sear and tender texture.
Recipe ideas
- Grilled Garlic-and-Herb-Marinated Hanger Steak Recipe
- Sous Vide Hanger Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
- Seared Hanger Steak with Rustic Charred Scallion Salsa
9. Skirt Steak
Skirt steak, cut from the diaphragm, possesses a big, beefy flavor with a loose grain that whisks up marinades like a pro. Maintain tenderness by slicing thin and quickly cooking. Season with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
Recipe ideas
- Grilled Skirt Steak with Caramelized Butter and Cumin
- Grilled Skirt Steak with Red Miso
- Beef and Broccoli 'Takeout' Noodles
- Grilled Skirt Steak Fajitas
10. Sirloin Steak
Sirloin steak's general home is the lower back area, yielding a variety of cuts that can be served whole or broken down into smaller pieces. Marinate and thread onto kebabs or toss into stir fries for versatility.
Recipe ideas
- Beef and Vegetable Shish Kebabs
- Grilled Asian Garlic Steak Skewers
- Stir-Fry Green Curry Beef with Asparagus and Sugar Snaps
- To elevate the nutritional value of your Filet Mignon meal, consider adding more vegetables and proportioning your steak serving appropriately.
- Cooking the perfect steak requires a good creditline for purchasing quality ingredients and a sealing of flavors through marinades and sauces.
- In addition to cooking techniques, the choice of cooking method can significantly impact the taste of your steak, with grilling providing a unique char and smoky flavor.
- Despite its indulgent reputation, a cooking and serving of Filet Mignon can be made more cost-effective by choosing a more wallet-friendly cut such as the flat iron steak.
