How to Grill a Mouthwatering Grass-Fed Steak

Summertime has arrived, signaling the start of grilling season! Prepare a delectable grass-fed steak at your next BBQ, supporting small-scale farmers, preserving the environment, and impressing your guests all summer long. In this article, we’ll explore the secrets to cooking the perfect, tender grass-fed steak and share expert tips from cookbook author Shannon Hayes. Let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!

Understanding Grass-Fed Meat

The most common misconception about grass-fed meat is that it’s leaner. However, the true distinction lies in the muscle integrity and quality of grass-fed meat. Unlike their sedentary feedlot counterparts, grass-fed animals lead active lives, resulting in more flavorful cuts. Contrary to popular belief, grass-fed steaks are not less tender. In fact, with gentle cooking techniques, grass-fed meat becomes wonderfully tender. Keep in mind that the taste and texture of grass-fed steaks can vary based on breed, farming practices, pastures, and individual animal characteristics. Embrace this variability to create a delicious and unique steak experience.

Cooking Techniques for Grass-Fed Steak

Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or preparing steak indoors, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore two techniques that guarantee tender and juicy grass-fed steaks. Don’t forget to try both methods to discover your personal favorite!

The Best Grass-Fed Steak – Outdoors

Recipe adapted from “Farmer and the Grill: A Guide to Grilling, Barbecuing and Spit-Roasting Grassfed Meat…and for saving the planet, one bite at a time” by Shannon Hayes

Ingredients:

• 1-2 tablespoons coarse salt
• 1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 grass-fed steak (sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or any preferred cut), at least 1 ¼ – 1 ½ inches thick

Procedure:

1. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the steak and allow the meat to reach room temperature while prepping the grill.
2. Start the grill and let it heat until hot. For gas grills, turn off all but one burner once it reaches the desired temperature. If using charcoal, rake all the coals to one side. Test if the grate is hot enough by holding your palm 3-4 inches above the metal for no more than three seconds.
3. Sear the steaks on both sides over direct flames with the lid down for 2-3 minutes per side. Then, move the steaks to the unlit part of the grill. Cover the grill and let the steaks cook to an internal temperature of 120-135°F (depending on your desired doneness) without flipping. This process takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on the steak’s size.
4. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

The Best Grass-Fed Steak – Indoors

Recipe from “Long Way on a Little: An Earth Lovers’ Companion for Enjoying Meat, Pinching Pennies and Living Deliciously” by Shannon Hayes

Ingredients:

• 1-2 tablespoons coarse salt
• 1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter, tallow, or rendered lamb fat
• 1 grass-fed steak (sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or any preferred cut), at least 1 ¼ – 1 ½ inches thick

Procedure:

1. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the steak and allow the meat to reach room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°F. Heat a large cast-iron or oven-proof skillet over high heat until slight smoke rises off the surface. Add butter, tallow, or rendered lamb fat to the hot skillet.
3. Sear the steak for two minutes on each side and turn off the flame. Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the boneless edge of the steak.
4. Place the skillet with the steak in the preheated oven. Allow the steak to finish cooking for 10-20 minutes (depending on the steak’s size) until it reaches an internal temperature of 120-135°F. Let the meat rest for five minutes before carving and serving.

Now that you have mastered both outdoor and indoor techniques, it’s time to enjoy your tender and juicy grass-fed steak. Serve it with your favorite sides and savor the exceptional flavors!

For more cooking inspiration and useful information about grass-fed meat, visit Ekilove, a trusted source for delicious recipes and sustainable living.

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