The 7 Bone Steak is a flavorful cut that often gets overlooked but deserves a spot on your grill or skillet. Known for its rich marbling and the distinctive bone shape, this steak offers a juicy and tender experience that’s perfect for hearty meals. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
We love how versatile the 7 Bone Steak can be, whether you’re searing it quickly or slow-cooking it to perfection. This recipe will guide us through simple steps to bring out the best in this cut, ensuring a delicious result every time. Let’s dive into a recipe that transforms this underrated steak into a mouthwatering dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
To prepare our 7 Bone Steak recipe, we focus on ingredients that enhance its natural juiciness and rich flavor. Below is a well-curated list to guide us through:
- 2 pounds of 7 Bone Steak, well-marbled and at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt to season evenly
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for balanced spice
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed to infuse aromatic flavor
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary for herbal notes
- 1 sprig fresh thyme to deepen savory taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to finish with richness
We recommend using fresh herbs to maximize aroma and boldness. The olive oil prevents sticking and supports a crisp crust while the butter enriches the final flavor profoundly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 7 Bone Steak | 2 pounds | Main protein |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Searing and crust |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Flavor and mild heat |
| Garlic cloves, smashed | 4 cloves | Aromatic infusion |
| Fresh rosemary | 2 sprigs | Herbal accent |
| Fresh thyme | 1 sprig | Savory enhancement |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon | Rich finishing touch |
“Good seasoning and quality herbs turn a simple steak into a feast.”
Let’s gather these ingredients to achieve a perfect balance that lets the 7 Bone Steak shine through every bite.
Equipment Needed
To master the 7 Bone Steak recipe, having the right equipment is essential. It ensures even cooking, proper searing, and the development of deep flavors. Here is what we recommend for the best results:
- Heavy-duty skillet or cast iron pan
Ideal for heat retention and creating a perfect crust on the steak. A cast iron skillet distributes heat evenly allowing us to sear the steak flawlessly.
- Tongs
Use sturdy tongs to flip and handle the steak without piercing the meat, which helps maintain its juice and tenderness.
- Meat thermometer
Precision is key. To cook the 7 Bone Steak to your preferred doneness, a reliable meat thermometer helps us monitor the internal temperature accurately.
- Basting spoon or small ladle
Perfect for basting the steak with melted butter, garlic, and herbs during the cooking process, enhancing aroma and flavor.
- Cutting board and sharp knife
For trimming any excess fat before cooking and slicing the steak after it rests, a sharp knife ensures clean cuts preserving the juiciness.
- Aluminum foil or clean kitchen towel
To tent the steak after cooking and let it rest, which allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender bites.
The table below summarizes the essential equipment along with their purpose:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Even heat distribution, perfect searing |
| Tongs | Handle steak without piercing |
| Meat Thermometer | Monitor internal temperature for precise doneness |
| Basting Spoon | Spoon melted butter and herbs over the steak |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Trim and slice steak cleanly |
| Aluminum Foil/Kitchen Towel | Rest steak to retain juices |
Having these tools ready helps us achieve that iconic juicy and flavor-packed 7 Bone Steak every time we cook. Let’s gather them to start our culinary journey with confidence.
Preparation
To unlock the full potential of the 7 Bone Steak, preparation is key. Let’s focus on choosing the right cut and getting it ready for cooking to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Selecting the Perfect 7 Bone Steak
Choosing the ideal 7 Bone Steak involves attention to three critical factors: marbling, thickness, and freshness. We want a steak rich in marbling because this intramuscular fat melts during cooking, infusing the meat with juiciness and flavor.
| Factor | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Marbling | Even distribution of white fat streaks throughout | Enhances tenderness and keeps steak juicy |
| Thickness | About 1.5 to 2 inches | Allows a perfect sear without overcooking the interior |
| Freshness | Bright red color, firm texture | Ensures optimal flavor and safe consumption |
When selecting the steak, avoid any dark spots or excessive liquid pooling in the packaging. We recommend buying from a trusted butcher who can provide details on the cut’s source and quality.
Preparing the Steak for Cooking
Before bringing the 7 Bone Steak to the heat, proper preparation sets the stage for a perfect crust and juicy interior.
- Bring to Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking from edge to center.
- Pat Dry with Paper Towels
Moisture on the steak’s surface hinders browning. We carefully pat the steak dry to promote a crispy sear.
- Season Generously
Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper liberally on both sides of the steak. The salt enhances the meat’s natural flavors, and seasoning just before cooking preserves the steak’s moisture.
- Prepare Fresh Herbs and Butter
Have your smashed garlic cloves, fresh rosemary, thyme, and unsalted butter ready. These ingredients will be introduced during cooking to layer aromatic and rich flavors onto the steak.
“The key to a steak bursting with flavor starts not only with the cut but also with fresh herbs and perfect seasoning before the pan even heats.”
By carefully selecting and preparing our 7 Bone Steak, we create the foundation for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Cooking Instructions
To create a perfectly cooked 7 Bone Steak, we follow a simple step-by-step process that highlights its rich flavor while achieving a tender juicy texture. Below are detailed methods to season and cook this exceptional cut.
Seasoning the Steak
We begin by preparing the steak to maximize its natural flavor and create a savory crust.
- Pat the 7 Bone Steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for proper browning.
- Generously coat both sides with kosher salt. Salt enhances the steak’s juiciness by drawing out natural flavors.
- Add a fresh grind of black pepper evenly over the surface.
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes after seasoning. This ensures even cooking and better penetration of the seasoning.
- Prepare fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and smash 4 garlic cloves to infuse aromatic notes during cooking.
Pan Searing Method
Pan searing gives the steak a deep brown crust with a juicy interior. We use a heavy cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the steak in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving it.
- Flip the steak using tongs and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, the smashed garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan.
- Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the melting butter over the steak for 3-4 minutes. This bastes the steak with rich flavor and keeps it moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature:
| Doneness | Fahrenheit (°F) | Celsius (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F | 52°C |
| Medium Rare | 135°F | 57°C |
| Medium | 145°F | 63°C |
| Medium Well | 150°F | 66°C |
| Well Done | 160°F+ | 71°C+ |
- Once the steak reaches your preferred doneness, remove it from the pan and tent loosely with foil.
- Rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Oven Roasting Method
For a more controlled cooking process especially on thicker cuts, oven roasting after searing works perfectly.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Follow the pan searing steps 1 to 3 to create a flavorful crust.
- Transfer the skillet with the steak directly into the preheated oven.
- Roast for 6-10 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature as per the table above.
- Remove steak from oven and transfer to a cutting board.
- Tent loosely with foil and rest for 10 minutes to lock in juices.
Following these instructions, our 7 Bone Steak will turn out flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked to your liking every time.
Resting and Serving
Proper resting and thoughtfully selected sides will elevate our 7 Bone Steak to a truly memorable meal. Let’s explore how to maximize flavor retention and suggest ideal accompaniments.
Proper Resting Time
Allowing the 7 Bone Steak to rest after cooking is crucial for locking in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. We recommend resting the steak for 10 to 15 minutes on a warm plate. Cover it lightly with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel to maintain heat without trapping steam that could soften the crust.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Resting duration | 10 – 15 minutes |
| Covering material | Aluminum foil or kitchen towel |
| Resting surface | Warm plate |
| Purpose | Redistributes juices, retains heat, preserves crust |
During this time, internal juices redistribute evenly, reducing loss when slicing. Resist the urge to cut immediately, as premature slicing releases flavorful juices and dries out the meat.
Suggested Side Dishes
The richness of the 7 Bone Steak pairs beautifully with sides that complement its bold flavor while balancing texture. Here are some top recommendations:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the crisp seared crust.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Slightly charred and caramelized sprouts add a savory crunch.
- Grilled Asparagus: Light and smoky, asparagus offers a fresh, green counterpoint.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add brightness to the plate.
- Sautéed Mushrooms with Thyme: Earthy mushrooms enhance the steak’s umami notes.
These sides contribute an array of textures and flavors to round out a satisfying 7 Bone Steak meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the 7 Bone Steak ahead of time can elevate the final dish and make the cooking process smoother. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to lock in flavor and tenderness:
1. Season in Advance
Generously season the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper at least 1 hour before cooking or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This dry brining process helps the salt penetrate the meat, enhancing juiciness and seasoning depth.
“Dry brining is a game-changer for thick cuts like the 7 Bone Steak — it improves texture and flavor far beyond immediate seasoning.“
2. Prep Herb and Butter Mixture
Combine fresh rosemary, thyme, smashed garlic, and unsalted butter in a small container. Store this fragrant compound butter in the fridge, ready to baste the steak during cooking or to melt on top after resting. Preparing it ahead saves time and amplifies the steak’s aromatic profile.
3. Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the seasoned steak from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to let it warm to room temperature. This ensures even cooking and helps form the ideal crust.
4. Preheat Equipment Early
Preheat your skillet or cast iron pan well ahead — about 10 minutes on high heat — to guarantee an immediate sear once the steak hits the pan. This step reduces cooking time and improves the crust texture.
5. Rest After Cooking
Plan to rest the steak for 10 to 15 minutes wrapped loosely in aluminum foil. Resting lets muscle fibers relax, ensuring the juices redistribute evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy outcome.
| Make-Ahead Step | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Season steak | 1 hour to overnight | Enhances juiciness and seasoning penetration |
| Prepare herb butter | Up to 1 day in advance | Saves time, boosts flavor and aroma |
| Bring steak to room temp | 30 minutes before cooking | Promotes even cooking and better crust formation |
| Preheat pan | 10 minutes before cooking | Ensures immediate sear and crust development |
| Rest cooked steak | 10-15 minutes after cooking | Redistributes juices for tenderness |
By incorporating these make-ahead tips, our 7 Bone Steak recipe delivers maximum flavor and perfect texture every time we cook it.
Conclusion
The 7 Bone Steak offers a unique blend of flavor, tenderness, and value that deserves a spot on our dinner table. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, this cut transforms into a memorable meal that satisfies both the palate and the wallet.
By embracing its versatility and following thoughtful steps, we can enjoy a steak experience that’s both rich and rewarding. Let’s make the most of this underrated cut and savor every juicy, flavorful bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 7 Bone Steak?
A 7 Bone Steak is a flavorful cut of beef known for its distinctive bone shape and rich marbling, which makes it juicy and tender. It is an affordable option that delivers great taste and texture.
How do I choose the best 7 Bone Steak?
Look for a steak about 1.5 to 2 inches thick, with even fat marbling and a bright red color. Freshness and good fat distribution are key for the best flavor and tenderness.
What ingredients enhance the flavor of a 7 Bone Steak?
Use olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, smashed garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and unsalted butter. Fresh herbs and good seasoning elevate the steak’s natural juiciness and aroma.
What equipment do I need to cook the 7 Bone Steak?
You’ll need a heavy-duty skillet or cast iron pan, sturdy tongs, a meat thermometer, a basting spoon, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and foil or a kitchen towel for resting.
Should I pan-sear or slow-cook the 7 Bone Steak?
Both methods work well. Pan-searing creates a crispy crust quickly, while slow-cooking or oven roasting is great for thicker cuts and tenderizes the meat evenly.
How long should I let the steak rest after cooking?
Rest the steak for 10 to 15 minutes, loosely covered with foil or a kitchen towel. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and flavorful.
What side dishes pair well with a 7 Bone Steak?
Good side options include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, grilled asparagus, Caesar salad, and sautéed mushrooms with thyme to complement the steak’s rich flavor.