How To Cook Wagyu Steak? What To Serve With Wagyu Steak?

How to cook wagyu steak? As anyone who loves a delicious steak dinner knows, nothing quite beats the succulent flavors of wagyu beef. Known for its intense marbling and incredible flavor, wagyu has established itself as a premium cut of steak that is unparalleled in texture and taste when cooked correctly. Whether you are an aspiring home chef or experienced cook looking to expand your repertoire, you can learn how to properly prepare this superior cut of steak with relative ease. In this article, we’ll walk through the process from start to finish, so you too can satisfy even the most discerning palate with your take on wagyu steaks. So let’s begin!

What is Wagyu steak?

Before we get into the details of how to cook wagyu steak, let’s start by looking at what it is.

Wagyu (和牛, meaning Japanese cow) is traditionally a high-grade beef that comes from certain breeds of cattle originating in Japan. Wagyu includes four primary breeds of cattle: Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, Japanese Polled and Japanese Shorthorn. The distinctive marbling and superior fat content of the wagyu breed makes it an ideal cut of steak for a delicious, juicy meal.

Where does Wagyu steak come from?

Wagyu steak typically comes from cows that are raised in specific areas of Japan such as Miyazaki and Kobe. Depending on the region, wagyu is given different names such as Kobe beef and Matsusaka beef. High quality wagyu will usually be labeled with its place of origin and the breed of cattle it was taken from.

What are the differences between Wagyu steak and other steak?

The main difference between wagyu and other steaks is the marbling, or fat content. Wagyu has an incredibly high fat content that gives it a unique flavor as well as an incredibly tender texture. The intense marbling of wagyu also ensures that when cooked properly it retains all of its natural flavor while still being succulent and juicy. Additionally, wagyu steaks typically must have a minimum rating of A4 or BMS 5 to be labeled as such.

Health benefits of Wagyu steak

Despite its high fat content, wagyu steak contains a relatively lower cholesterol and saturated fat content than other cuts of steak. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the flavor and texture of beef while also trying to watch their cholesterol intake. Additionally, due to its high monounsaturated fat content, wagyu has been known to have beneficial effects on heart health and blood pressure.

Which cuts of Wagyu steak are best for cooking?

The most popular cut of wagyu steak is the ribeye. Ribeyes are well-marbled and have a good balance between fat and lean meat, making them ideal for pan-searing or grilling. Other cuts such as New York strip steaks, sirloin steaks, filet mignons, and skirt steaks can also be great options, depending on the desired intensity and flavor profile.

How to prepare Wagyu steak to cook?

Before you begin cooking your wagyu, it is important to properly prepare the steak. Start by patting the surface of the steak dry with a paper towel. This will ensure that moisture does not interfere with the cooking process and help retain its natural flavor. Once this is done, season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. Make sure that you use enough seasoning to properly flavor your wagyu steak and that you press it into the surface of the meat.

Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it is hot enough for cooking. You will know when the pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles on its surface. Once your pan has reached the desired temperature, lightly coat it with oil or butter and place your wagyu steak onto the pan.

How to cook Wagyu steak?

For stovetop cooking

Once your steak is in the pan, let it cook for two minutes on each side. After this, reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook for an additional three to four minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak or five minutes on each side for a well-done steak.

Once the steak has cooked through, carefully transfer it from the pan onto a clean plate and let it rest for five minutes before serving. This will allow for the juices to redistribute and ensure that your steak is succulent and flavorful.

For grilling

If you prefer to grill your wagyu steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot enough, lightly coat it with oil or butter and place your steak on it. Grill for two minutes on each side before reducing the heat to medium and continuing to cook for an additional three to four minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak or five minutes on each side for a well-done steak.

Once your steak is cooked through, let it rest for five minutes before serving. This will ensure that the juices are properly distributed and that your wagyu steak is incredibly tender and flavorful.

For oven cooking

If you prefer to bake your wagyu steak in the oven, preheat your oven to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Place a shallow roasting pan on the middle rack and let it preheat for at least 10 minutes. Next, lightly coat the steering with oil or butter and place it into the hot roasting pan. Roast your steak for 25-30 minutes for a medium-rare steak or 40 minutes for a well-done steak.

Once finished, remove the pan from the oven and let your wagyu steak rest for five to ten minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute properly and ensure that you enjoy an incredibly tender and flavorful meal.

Let’s watch this video to know more about how to cook wagyu steak.

Other ways to cook Wagyu steak

Aside from the traditional methods of cooking wagyu steak, there are several other ways to prepare this delicious cut of beef. This includes sous-vide cooking, which involves sealing your steak in a plastic bag and immersing it in hot water for an hour or more. Alternatively you could try reverse searing, which entails slow roasting your steak in the oven before finishing it off on the stovetop. Both of these methods will help to ensure an incredibly tender and flavorful steak that is sure to impress.

When cooked correctly, wagyu steak is an incredibly delicious cut of beef that makes for a truly unique and enjoyable meal. Whether you opt to pan-sear, grill, or roast your steak, the key to success lies in taking the time to properly prepare and season your wagyu. With a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavor and texture of this exquisite cut of beef any day of the week.

Finally, for added flavor and nutrition add some fresh herbs (e.g. rosemary, thyme, oregano) to your steak before cooking or serve it with a side of seasonal vegetables such as grilled asparagus or sautéed mushrooms for additional health benefits. Whichever way you choose to cook wagyu steak, the results will be sure to delight your taste buds!

Which way is best to cook Wagyu steak?

The best way to cook your wagyu steak will depend on the cut, the desired intensity of flavor and texture, as well as personal preference. Many chefs recommend either pan-searing or grilling for ribeyes and other cuts where marbling is more prominent, while sous vide or reverse searing can be better suited for leaner cuts such as filet mignons. Ultimately, the best way to cook wagyu steak is whatever produces the best results for you – experimentation and practice are key!

Tips to cook Wagyu steak perfectly

Now that you know more about how to cook wagyu steak, let’s explore tips to make it more attractive.

• Pat dry the steak before cooking to ensure moisture does not interfere with the process and retain flavor.
• Season your wagyu steak generously with salt and pepper, making sure to press it into the surface of the meat.
• Preheat your pan or grill for at least 10 minutes and make sure that it is hot enough before adding your steak.
• Cook your wagyu steak for two minutes on each side over medium-high heat, before reducing the heat and cooking for an additional three to four minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak or five minutes on each side for a well-done steak.
• Let the cooked steak rest for at least five minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute properly.
• For added flavor, season your steak with fresh herbs before cooking and serve it with a side of seasonal vegetables for additional health benefits.

What to serve with Wagyu steak?

Wagyu steak is incredibly delicious and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Potatoes are always a popular choice, whether mashed, roasted or boiled. Other vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms also pair well with wagyu steak.

For those looking to add an extra level of flavor and texture, try grilled asparagus or sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, a salad of fresh greens such as arugula or spinach can provide a refreshing accompaniment to the richness of wagyu steak.

Finally for those looking to add an indulgent twist, consider accompanying your wagyu steak with truffle fries or béarnaise sauce. These classic French accompaniments will elevate your steak to another level, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Conclusion: How to cook Wagyu steak?

So we have answered the question how to cook wagyu steak. Wagyu steak is an incredibly delicious cut of beef that requires a little bit of patience and practice to cook perfectly. The key is to preheat your pan or grill for at least 10 minutes, season your steak generously with salt and pepper before cooking, and allow the cooked steak to rest for five minutes after cooking. Thank you for reading at johnnygrits.com.

FAQ: Wagyu steak

Is it better to grill or pan-fry Wagyu?

Renowned as the ultimate cooking method by experts, grilling lends an unparalleled smoky flavor to each bite. Opt for a charcoal grill to unlock the full potential of this culinary masterpiece, as the indoor replication falls short. Meticulously observe the steak and consistently monitor its temperature to achieve a flawlessly cooked, tender piece of meat with every attempt.

Is there a special way to cook Wagyu beef?

Indulge in the magnificence of American Wagyu beef, known for its exquisite marbling. Despite its higher levels of interior fat compared to prime steak, this culinary marvel can be prepared using your preferred technique. Whether you’re a fan of searing in a hot pan, reverse searing, sous-vide cooking, or starting in a cold pan, you can savor a delectable steak that will leave you craving for more. Allow us to accompany you on this culinary journey with a carefully curated recipe.

How to cook Wagyu steak rare?

Master the art of cooking the perfect rare Wagyu steak. Begin by preparing the pan with a light coating of butter, olive oil, or even utilize the flavorful fats from the edges of the steak. Sear each side for three minutes for a rare finish, or aim for four minutes for a delicious medium-rare sear. And to confirm it’s cooked to perfection, use the magic of the touch test.

Do you cook Wagyu with butter or oil?

When it comes to American and Australian Wagyu, mild-flavored olive oil and vegetable oil are optimal options. Butter can also be used to enhance the rich and buttery flavor of the beef. However, it’s important to note that minimal oil usage is recommended for these premium cuts of beef.

Do you wash Wagyu meat before cooking?

According to the USDA, it’s not recommended. Washing raw meat before cooking is ineffective at eliminating bacteria and can actually spread contaminants to other surfaces, posing a potential health risk.

Why do you only put salt on Wagyu?

Mastering salt management is crucial to ensuring optimal flavor and preventing excessive salt residue on both the meat and your cooking surfaces. Elevate your culinary skills and achieve irresistibly delicious results with our expert guide.

Why is my Wagyu steak tough?

Discover the key to succulent, tender Wagyu beef by taking special care not to overcook it. Maintaining the intricate marbling is essential for an exceptional dining experience, as excessive heat can result in a chewy texture. Remember, allowing the steak to rest for a brief period after cooking is crucial to savoring the ultimate taste sensation.

What is the best way to eat Wagyu steak?

To savor the exquisite taste of this cut, cook it to rare to medium rare perfection. Avoid the unfortunate consequence of overcooking, which diminishes the buttery and luxurious essence that defines Wagyu steak.

Do you cook Wagyu on high heat?

Enhance the flavor of your Wagyu steak by utilizing high heat for a flawless sear. This technique will allow you to achieve a mouth-watering char on the exterior while retaining a succulent and tender interior. With Wagyu’s marbling, the risk of overcooking is minimized. Whether it be a cast iron pan, grill, or any suitable pan, you have various options to achieve the perfect sear.

Should I salt Wagyu overnight?

For optimum seasoning, let the flavors seep into your Wagyu by salting it 24 hours in advance. But if time is a constraint, a quick dry brining method can start just two hours before cooking. Simply spread ½ to ¾ teaspoon of salt evenly over the meat’s surface for every pound of Wagyu.

How well should Wagyu beef be cooked?

To achieve the perfect level of doneness for Wagyu beef, simply cook it on both sides for 3-5 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare or 135°F for medium-rare, using a reliable meat thermometer. After cooking, let the beef rest for a minimum of 10 minutes before slicing, preserving the juicy flavors.

Should you cook Wagyu with oil?

While A5 Wagyu beef should not be cooked in oil, American and Australian Wagyu can be cooked with any oil of your choice. Ultimately, personal preference plays a role in this decision. However, it is important to avoid using an oil that will significantly alter the flavor of the beef.