As a chef, I’ve cooked my fair share of tomahawk steaks. And as a food lover, I’ve eaten even more.
But why is tomahawk steak so expensive? Tomahawk steak is expensive due to its large size, bone-in presentation, and high-quality cut from the rib section. The long bone, often Frenched for visual appeal, and the rich, marbled meat combine to create a premium steakhouse experience.
One thing that’s always struck me about this cut of meat is just how expensive it can be.
To explore more reasons, let’s dig in and find out.
In This Article
What Is A Tomahawk Steak?
You’ve probably heard of a ribeye steak before. It’s a classic cut of beef that’s known for its rich flavor and tenderness.
Well, a tomahawk steak is essentially just a ribeye steak with one key difference: the bone.
A tomahawk steak is cut from the rib section of a cow, with the bone attached.
And not just any bone, either – it’s the entire rib bone, left long and attached to the meat.
The bone is often French-trimmed, which means that the meat and fat are removed from the bone to give it a clean, elegant look.
Why Does The Bone Make A Difference?
First, the bone adds weight to the steak. And since beef is usually priced per pound, a tomahawk steak will inherently be more expensive than a boneless cut like a filet mignon.
But it’s not just about weight. The bone has a lot of flavors, thanks to the marrow inside.
As you cook the steak, the heat causes the marrow to melt and infuse the meat with even more flavor and richness.
Plus, the bone helps to keep the steak juicy as it cooks.
What Else Makes Tomahawk Steak So Special?
Aside from the bone, a few other factors contribute to the expensive price tag of a tomahawk steak.
For one, it’s a pretty large cut of meat.
A typical tomahawk steak can weigh anywhere from two to four pounds, depending on how it’s cut. That’s a lot of beef!
And since it’s a ribeye, it’s also a particularly tender and flavorful part of the cow.
But perhaps the biggest reason why tomahawk steaks are so expensive is simply because they’re trendy right now!
These days, it seems like every upscale steakhouse has a tomahawk on the menu.
And as with any trendy food item, the price tends to go up as demand increases.
Is A Tomahawk Steak Worth The Price?
Ultimately, whether or not a tomahawk steak is worth the cost is up to you.
If you’re a serious beef lover and you want to splurge on something special, then go for it. You won’t be disappointed.
If you are in the market for luxury meat, you should also consider purchasing an expensive Wagyu steak.
But if you’re on a budget or don’t care much about having a giant bone on your plate, then there are plenty of other cuts of meat that are just as delicious and much more affordable.
FAQs
How Do I Cook A Tomahawk Steak?
There are a few different methods, but one popular technique is to sear it in a hot cast iron skillet for a few minutes on each side, then finish cooking it in the oven at a lower temperature until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Can I Buy Tomahawk Steaks At The Grocery Store?
Yes, many grocery stores now carry tomahawk steaks, although they can be quite expensive. Your best bet is to look for a good-quality butcher or specialty meat shop.
How Much Should I Expect To Pay For A Tomahawk Steak?
Prices vary depending on where you’re buying it but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per steak.
Is It Necessary To Rest The Steak Before Serving?
Yes, it’s always a good idea to let your steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making for a more tender and flavorful bite.
