If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests with a delicious and juicy beef steak, then the Denver steak should be on your radar. The Denver steak is a relatively new cut of meat, but it has quickly gained popularity among steak enthusiasts due to its incredible flavor and tenderness. In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about cooking a Denver steak, from selecting the right cut of meat to serving it up like a pro.

1. Introduction to Denver Steak

The Denver steak is a boneless cut of beef that comes from the chuck section of the cow. It is also known as a “under blade steak” or “boneless short ribs”. This cut is relatively new, only gaining popularity in the past few decades, and was once an undervalued and underappreciated cut of meat. However, its marbling and tenderness make it a delicious and affordable alternative to more expensive cuts like the ribeye or sirloin.

Cooking a Denver steak can be intimidating for some, but with the right techniques and tools, you can create a perfectly cooked and delicious steak. Knowing how to prepare and cook a Denver steak correctly will allow you to enjoy this cut of meat at its best.

2. Buying the Right Denver Steak

The first step towards cooking a perfect Denver steak is to select the right cut of meat. When buying a Denver steak, it’s essential to look for a steak that is thick and well-marbled. The thickness of the steak will help it retain its juiciness during cooking, while the marbling will add flavor and tenderness.

When it comes to selecting the right size, a Denver steak should be at least one inch thick, but no more than two inches. It’s also crucial to choose a steak that has been aged for at least 14 days. Aging the meat helps to break down the tough fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Additionally, it’s essential to select the best quality meat. Look for beef that is labeled “choice” or “prime” as they are the highest quality grades of meat. Finally, check for freshness by looking for meat that is bright red in color and has no unpleasant odors.

3. Preparing the Denver Steak

Before cooking your Denver steak, it’s essential to prepare it correctly. The first step is to make sure that the meat is thawed correctly. To do this, remove the steak from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can also thaw the meat by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for several hours.

Once the meat is thawed, it’s time to season it. The Denver steak has a rich and beefy flavor, so it’s best to keep the seasoning simple. A sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides of the meat will suffice. However, you can also add additional seasoning like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs if you prefer.

If you have time, marinating the steak is also an option. A marinade can help to tenderize the meat and add additional flavors. To marinate the steak, place it in a resealable plastic bag with your preferred marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight.

4. Cooking the Denver Steak

There are several ways to cook a Denver steak, but the key is to choose the right cooking method based on your preferences and available equipment.

Grilling the steak is a popular method that imparts a smoky flavor to the meat. To grill a Denver steak, preheat your grill to high heat and place the steak directly on the grates. Cook the steak for 5-6 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Pan-searing the meat is a great option for those who don’t have access to a grill. To pan-sear a Denver steak, heat a cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Place the steak in the pan and cook it for 3-4 minutes on each side or until it’s browned and cooked to your liking.

Broiling is another option that works well for thin-cut Denver steaks. To broil a Denver steak, preheat your broiler and place the steak on a broiling pan. Broil the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.

No matter which cooking method you choose, it’s important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender and flavorful steak.