Mastering the Art of How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak on a Charcoal Grill
Written By Avi Green
There's nothing quite like the primal thrill of grilling a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill. This bone-in ribeye cut, famously known as the tomahawk steak, paired with the smoky flavors from a charcoal grill, turns any meal into a showstopper. Ever wondered how to cook a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill? You're in the perfect place. Well guide you step-by-step to ensure you achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy steak every single time.
Before diving into the recipe, understand that cooking a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill is as much an art as it is a science. Dont let the main SEO keyword, how to cook a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill, intimidate you. With the right tools, techniques, and a sprinkle of patience, this culinary feat is perfectly achievable.
Choosing the Right Equipment
First, let's talk about the equipment you'll need. A quality charcoal grill is essential for that perfect sear and smoky taste. Consider these top-rated options:
A set of sharp knives is also crucial for preparing and serving your tomahawk steak. For precise cuts, try this Knives Set.
Ingredients & Preparation
Ingredients:
- 1 tomahawk steak (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
- Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme)
Preparation:
- Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Season the steak generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Pat the seasonings into the meat to create a crust.
- Brush a thin layer of olive oil on both sides of the steak. This step helps achieve a beautiful sear on the grill.
- Prepare a bouquet garni by tying together fresh rosemary and thyme with kitchen twine. This herb bundle will infuse flavor into the steak as it cooks.
Setting Up the Charcoal Grill
Before you start cooking, you need to set up your charcoal grill correctly. The key to success is creating a two-zone fire; one zone for direct heat and the other for indirect heat. Heres how you can do it:
Creating a Two-Zone Fire
Begin by lighting the charcoal. A chimney starter ensures an even burn. Once the charcoal is hot and covered with a layer of gray ash, spread it out on one half of the grill to create a direct heat zone. Leave the other half empty, which will serve as the indirect heat zone. This setup allows you to sear the steak over high heat and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking.
For more details, check out this two-zone fire setup guide from Grilling4All.
Grilling the Tomahawk Steak
Your grill is ready; now its time to cook the tomahawk steak. Follow these steps for a perfectly grilled steak:
Searing the Steak
Place the tomahawk steak directly over the hot coals. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, ensuring a beautiful crust forms. During the searing process, baste the steak with olive oil using the bouquet garni, which will impart fresh herb flavors into the meat.
Indirect Cooking
After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill. Cover the grill with the lid and cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature:
- Rare: 120-130F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135F
- Medium: 140-145F
- Medium-Well: 150-155F
- Well-Done: 160F and above
For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, this should take around 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
Resting and Serving
Once the steak has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful steak. Place the steak on a cutting board and tent it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
After resting, slice the steak against the grain for the most tender bites. Serve your perfectly grilled tomahawk steak with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cleaning Up
Maintaining your grill and knives set is essential for their longevity and optimal performance. Clean them immediately after use with these products:
For more grill cleaning tips, visit Charcoal Grill Safety.
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Conclusion
Cooking a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill is a truly rewarding experience, transforming a simple piece of meat into a culinary masterpiece. With this comprehensive guide on how to cook a tomahawk steak on a charcoal grill, you're well on your way to impressing your friends and family with your grilling prowess. Remember to take your time, enjoy the process, and savor each juicy bite of your perfectly grilled steak.
