As an award-winning chef, I have had the pleasure of cooking with the finest ingredients in the world. One particularly special ingredient is a dry-aged steak.
Dry-aging is a process that intensifies the flavor and tenderness of the beef, resulting in a truly unforgettable dining experience.
How do you cook a dry-aged steak? Season dry-aged steak generously with salt and pepper. Preheat a skillet over high heat, add oil, then sear the steak for about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Add butter, garlic, and herbs; baste for 1-2 minutes. Rest before serving.
However, cooking a dry-aged steak requires a different approach than cooking a regular steak.
Keep reading on, as I will provide you with an easy step-by-step guide on how to cook a dry-aged steak to perfection.
In This Article
What Is Dry-Aged Steak?
Dry-aging is a process where beef is left to hang in a controlled environment for several weeks.
This process allows enzymes to break down the connective tissue in the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
How Is Dry-Aged Beef Different From Regular Beef?
Dry-aged beef is different from regular beef in several ways.
For one, dry-aged beef is more expensive because the process of dry-aging takes time and resources.
Also, dry-aged beef has a more intense flavor and tender texture than regular beef.
How Do You Know If Your Steak Is Dry-Aged?
Dry-aged beef is often labeled as such at the butcher or grocery store.
If you’re unsure, simply ask the butcher or grocer if the beef is dry-aged.
Preparing Your Dry Aged Steak
Thawing
If your dry aged steak is frozen, thaw it carefully in the refrigerator.
Never thaw the steak at room temperature or in the microwave.
Seasoning
Before cooking your steak, season it generously with salt and pepper.
This will add flavor to the steak as it cooks. You should even consider adding butter to your dry aged steak.
Bringing To Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking.
This will ensure that the steak cooks more evenly.
How To Cook A Dry Aged Steak
Searing
To cook a dry-aged steak, start by searing it on high heat.
This will caramelize and seal the outside of the steak, which will help it retain moisture as it cooks.
Heat a cast iron skillet or grill to high heat and add a small amount of oil to the surface.
Place the steak onto the hot surface and sear it for two to three minutes per side. You can add butter to the steak to add additional flavor and keep it soft.
Cooking Time
Next, reduce the heat to medium and cook the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cook the steak for four to five minutes per side for medium-rare or six to seven minutes per side for medium.
Resting
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for five minutes.
This will allow the juices to redistribute and settle in the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Serving The Steak
Slicing
To serve the steak, slice it against the grain into pieces that are about a quarter of an inch thick.
This will ensure that the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Presentation
When serving the steak, present it on a platter with a sprinkle of coarse salt and a few fresh herbs.
This will elevate the presentation of the steak and add flavor to the dish.
FAQs
How long should I dry-age my steak?
Most chefs recommend dry-aging beef for 21 to 28 days. This allows enough time for the enzymes to break down the connective tissue in the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Can I cook a dry-aged steak on a gas grill?
Yes, you can cook a dry-aged steak on a gas grill. However, it’s important to make sure that the grill is heated to a high temperature and that you sear the steak before cooking it to your desired level of doneness.
Do I need to let the steak rest before slicing?
Yes, it’s important to let the steak rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and settle in the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. Allow the steak to rest for about five minutes before slicing and serving.
Summary
Cooking a dry-aged steak may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple.
Following this comprehensive guide, you can perfectly cook a dry-aged steak and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
Remember to sear the steak, cook it to your desired level of doneness, and allow it to rest before slicing and serving.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy the full flavor and tenderness of a dry-aged steak.
