The Ultimate Guide To Cooking Wagyu Steak In The Oven

Cleaning and Preparing Your Wagyu Steak

Cleaning Wagyu steak requires minimal effort due to its high-quality source; however, following a few steps will ensure the best results:

1. Remove the steak from its packaging and pat it dry using paper towels.

2. Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

3. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the edges, leaving just a thin rim.

Culinary Tips for Perfect Oven Cooking

Cooking Wagyu steak in the oven can be a delightful experience that preserves its extraordinary taste and texture. Here’s a step-by-step guide with essential culinary tips:

1. Preheating the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for at least 20 minutes. This ensures that the meat will sear effectively when it hits the hot pan.

2. Seasoning: Keep the seasoning minimal to allow the incredible flavors of the Wagyu steak to shine through. A sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the steak will suffice.

3. Choosing the Right Pan: It is crucial to use an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan that can tolerate high temperatures without warping. Ensure the pan is large enough to comfortably fit your steak without overcrowding.

4. Searing the Steak: Place the pan on high heat and add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. Allow the pan to get hot until the oil starts to shimmer. Carefully place the steak in the pan and let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a beautiful crust and enhances the flavor.

5. Transferring to the Oven: After searing, transfer the entire pan with the steak into the preheated oven. Cook for approximately 4-7 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. Remember, Wagyu beef cooks faster than regular steak due to its high marbling content.

6. Monitoring the Internal Temperature: The best way to ensure your steak reaches the desired doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For a perfect medium-rare Wagyu steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C). Keep in mind that the temperature will rise a few degrees during resting.

7. Resting the Steak: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven, and let it rest on a cutting board for approximately 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in a more succulent and tender bite.

Variations and Personal Touches

While a perfectly cooked plain Wagyu steak is a culinary masterpiece in itself, you can elevate the experience with flavorful additions and creative side dishes. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Herb Butter: Prepare a homemade herb butter using fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Allow a pat of the herb butter to melt slowly atop the steak, infusing it with aromatic flavors.

2. Pan Sauce: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to create a luscious pan sauce. Enhance the sauce further by adding caramelized onions or mushrooms.

3. Japanese-inspired Marinade: Infuse Asian flavors into your Wagyu steak by marinating it with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. This variation adds a delightful twist to the traditional preparation.

Checking Doneness with Ease

Achieving the perfect degree of doneness is vital when cooking Wagyu steak. Here are a few reliable methods to determine how cooked it is without sacrificing its tenderness:

1. Touch Test: Using your index finger, gently press the center of the steak. If it feels similar to the fleshy part of your palm below the thumb when you touch it, it is cooked to medium-rare.

2. Meat Thermometer: Invest in a good-quality meat thermometer that provides accurate readings. For medium-rare doneness, aim for 130°F (55°C), medium at 140°F (60°C), and medium-well at 150°F (65°C).

A Heavenly Recipe: Oven-Cooked Wagyu Steak

Now, let’s delve into a sensational oven-cooked Wagyu steak recipe that will elevate your culinary skills and leave your taste buds in awe:

Ingredients:

• 2 Wagyu Ribeye Steaks (approximately 8-10 oz each)

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons of avocado oil

• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

• Optional: additional herbs or spices for personal preference

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for 20 minutes.

2. Season both sides of the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add any additional herbs or spices if desired.

3. Heat an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers.

4. Carefully place the steaks into the hot pan and let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side. This creates a beautifully caramelized crust.

5. Transfer the entire pan with the steaks into the preheated oven. Cook for approximately 4-7 minutes, depending on the desired doneness and thickness of the steaks.

6. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (65°C) for medium-well.

7. Once the desired doneness is reached, remove the steaks from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes.

8. Optional: Add a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of each steak during the resting process and let it melt and create a silky finish.

9. Slice the steaks against the grain, and serve them immediately with your favorite side dishes.

The Art of Savoring Your Wagyu Steak

As you take your first bite of the luscious, tender Wagyu steak, savor the flavors and appreciate the extraordinary craftsmanship that went into producing this masterpiece. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and unparalleled umami flavors will captivate your senses, creating a dining experience like no other.

Remember, Wagyu steak is best enjoyed in moderation, allowing you to fully appreciate its rich and indulgent qualities. So gather your loved ones, elevate your cooking skills, and embark on a culinary adventure with the remarkable Wagyu steak!

Bon Appétit!

Sources

FAQS On Wagyu Steak Oven Recipe

What Cut Of Wagyu Steak Is Best For Oven Cooking?

It is recommended to use a strip loin or ribeye cut for oven cooking, as these cuts have a marbling level that will result in a tender and juicy steak.

What Temperature Should The Oven Be Set To For Cooking Wagyu Steak?

The oven should be preheated to 400°F for cooking wagyu steak to medium-rare or 425°F for medium. It is important to avoid using a higher temperature, as it can result in overcooking and toughening the meat.

How Long Should Wagyu Steak Be Cooked In The Oven?

The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. Generally, a 1-inch thick steak should be cooked for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare and 8-10 minutes for medium.

Do I Need To Marinate Wagyu Steak Before Oven Cooking?

No, marinating is not necessary for wagyu steak as its high level of marbling provides enough flavor and tenderness. However, you may choose to season the steak with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning before cooking.

Should I Let The Wagyu Steak Rest After Cooking In The Oven?

Yes, it is recommended to let the cooked wagyu steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful steak.