If you’re a meat lover, chances are you’ve heard of the Tomahawk steak. This iconic cut is a favourite among carnivores, known for its dramatic presentation, rich flavour, and sheer size. It’s a steak that commands attention, both in the kitchen and on the plate. Whether you’re enjoying it in a top-tier restaurant or grilling it at home, a Tomahawk steak offers a unique, unforgettable dining experience.
But what is it that makes the Tomahawk steak so special? Below we’ll explore the qualities of this steak, learn how to cook a Tomahawk steak to perfection, and why Hunter & Barrel’s Australian locations are widely regarded as the country’s best Tomahawk steak restaurants.
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
So exactly what is a Tomahawk steak? Well, it is essentially a ribeye steak, but with a dramatic twist. It gets its name from its long, Frenched bone that resembles the handle of a tomahawk axe. The bone is left longer than usual, giving the steak its signature, bold appearance. This bone-in ribeye cut is known for its marbling.
Tomahawk steaks are typically cut to a thickness of 5-7.5cm, often weighing in at around 1-1.5kg, making them ideal for sharing. They come from the rib section of the cow, with the bone cleaned up to provide a handle-like feature. The result is a steak that looks as impressive as it tastes, offering a striking combination of size, flavour, and presentation.
Why Is a Tomahawk Steak So Special?
What sets a Tomahawk steak apart from other cuts of beef? There are several factors that elevate this steak to a premium level.
- Dramatic Presentation: The Tomahawk steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Its oversized bone and thick cut make it a visually striking option – enough to take any dining occasion to the next level.
- Superior Tenderness and Rich Flavour: The marbling within the meat of a Tomahawk steak is one of its defining characteristics. As the fat melts during cooking, it infuses the meat with a rich, buttery flavour and ensures an incredibly tender texture. This makes the Tomahawk steak a prime cut for those who appreciate a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite. Moreover, the bone itself adds a unique flavour during the cooking process. As the steak cooks, the bone imparts an additional depth of flavour that enhances the overall taste, providing a smoky richness that can’t be matched by other cuts.
- Perfect for Sharing: Due to its size, the Tomahawk steak is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for group dinners or special occasions. Its dramatic look and generous portion make it the centrepiece of any meal.
How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak at Home
If you’re lucky enough to have a Tomahawk steak at home, you’ll want to cook it properly to fully enjoy its rich flavour and tenderness. This of course means you need to know exactly how to cook a Tomahawk steak.
Preparation Tips
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prepare your Tomahawk steak correctly.
- Thawing: If you’re working with a frozen Tomahawk steak, make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Ideally, you should leave the steak in the fridge for 24 hours before cooking, allowing it to thaw slowly and evenly.
- Seasoning: Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavour of the steak. Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or use a rub made of herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic, and a little olive oil. Allow the seasoning to sit on the meat for 30 to 60 minutes before cooking.
- Pre-heat the Grill or Oven: A Tomahawk steak requires high, consistent heat to achieve the perfect char on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Preheat your BBQ grill or oven to a high temperature before you start cooking.
Cooking Methods
When it comes to the question of how to cook a Tomahawk steak, a variety of methods can be employed:
BBQ Grilling: Grilling over a BBQ is a popular method for cooking Tomahawk steaks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Sear the Steak: Place the Tomahawk steak on the hottest part of the grill and sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side to create a beautiful crust.
- Indirect Heat: Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill and cook for around 12–15 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the internal temperature reaches 50–55°C for rare or 60°C for medium-rare.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist, tender steak.
Coal Grilling (Hunter & Barrel Style): At Hunter & Barrel, we take things a step further by cooking our Tomahawk steaks over a coal-fired grill. The coal imparts a distinct smoky flavour that enhances the steak’s natural taste. The process is similar to BBQ grilling, but the key difference is that coal grilling gives the steak a unique char and aroma that can’t be replicated with gas or electric grills.
Oven Method: If you’re cooking indoors, the oven is a great alternative. Sear the steak in a hot pan, then transfer it to a preheated oven at 180°C. Roast for 10–15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Resting and Serving
Once your Tomahawk steak is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to let it rest for about 10–15 minutes. When serving, slice the meat against the grain and serve with hearty sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A rich red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, pairs beautifully with the bold flavours of the Tomahawk steak.
Where to Find the Best Tomahawk Steak Restaurants
If you’re looking to enjoy a Tomahawk steak without the hassle of cooking it yourself, the very best Tomahawk steak restaurants in Australia are the wonderful Hunter & Barrel locations in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth.
Cooked using coal-fired grills to ensure a smoky, aromatic flavour, our Tomahawk steaks are a class above the competition. Our expert chefs use only the highest quality Australian beef, carefully selected for its marbling, tenderness, and flavour. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious meal, our Tomahawk steaks offer a luxurious dining experience that you won’t soon forget.
