Nothing says “Spring” more than breaking out the grill for that first bar-b-que of the new year. Anyone can grill hamburgers and hot dogs, but if you want a memorable grilling experience, go with the steak. So, what cut of beef should you choose for a steak at a Rochester, IL cookout?
What is the Definition of Steak?
Steak is any thickly cut of meat that is usually grilled, broiled or fried. Any cut of meat? Yes. Technically there are fish steaks, pork steaks, and beef steaks. Steaks can also be made from other animals as well, such as deer, lamb or even bear. That being said, let’s talk about beef!
Types of Steak Cuts
There are essentially ten or so beef steak cuts, and each has its own method of preparation that’s best for grilling.
- Flat Iron Steak – Also called Shoulder Steak, Flat Iron Steak has significant marbling. A tough but flavorful cut, this steak is best marinated for 24 hours before grilling.
- Hangar Steak – A flavorful steak that should be marinated, then grilled quickly on high heat.
- Rib Eye Steak – A steak lover’s favorite for its tenderness and juiciness, cook this steak on high heat and serve. There’s no need to marinate this baby.
- Filet Mignon – Arguably the most tender cut of steak, the filet doesn’t pack much flavor on its own and is best if wrapped in bacon before grilling.
- New York Strip Steak – A very tender cut with perfect marbling, this steak is well suited for grilling. New York strips are best if grilled to a rare or medium-rare to accent its full flavor and tenderness.
- Flank Steak – A very popular cut, this steak is best if marinated prior to grilling.
- Tri-tip Steak – Also known as the Santa Maria, this steak is full-flavored with little fat. It’s best if marinated before grilling.
- Top Sirloin Steak – Great when cubed and used for kebabs, this steak is best marinated prior to grilling.
- T-bone Steak – Most tender if grilled to a medium-rare, this is a full-bodied, flavorful steak.
- Porterhouse Steak – The granddaddy of all steaks, the Porterhouse is actually two steaks in one! The porterhouse contains both the Filet Mignon and the New York strip! No need to marinate, grill this baby to a medium-rare and enjoy.
An honorable mention must also go out to the Pork Shoulder Steak, which is a blade cut that is excellent on the grill.
So Which Cut of Beef Should You Choose for a Steak at a Rochester, IL Cookout?
While there are many steaks to suit any taste if you want to have a great bar-b-que experience go with the Porterhouse. As the saying goes, “go big or go home”!
