Steak tips are a New England tradition, known for their rich flavor and tender texture. They are a staple in local pubs, backyard barbecues, and family dinners across Massachusetts and beyond. But what sets this dish apart?
Steak tips became popular because they are affordable and flavorful. These small cuts of meat, often from the sirloin or tenderloin, are economical and quick to cook. In New England, steak tips are marinated in a savory blend that tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavors. This creates a caramelized crust when seared or grilled.
What are exactly steak tips?
Are small, tender cuts of meat that chefs and home cooks prize for their rich flavor and versatility. These cuts typically come from the sirloin or round areas of the cow. Especially popular in New England, steak tips often feature prominently at casual dining establishments and barbecues.
To enhance their natural flavors and tenderize the meat, cooks usually marinate steak tips. A common marinade might include ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and various herbs. This process ensures that the steak tips remain juicy and tender when cooked.
Cooks most commonly grill or sear steak tips. These methods enhance the steak tips, creating a caramelized crust that is highly prized. Grilling adds a smoky depth to the meat’s flavor, making it a favorite for outdoor cookouts and family gatherings. Searing in a hot pan captures the juices and marinade flavors, producing a crust that offers a delightful contrast to the tender interior.
Steak tips also provide versatility in serving options. They serve as an excellent main course, often accompanied by hearty sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Alternatively, slicing steak tips thinly can transform them into a protein-rich addition to salads or sandwiches, adding both flavor and satisfaction.
In essence, steak tips are more than just a cut of beef; they are a culinary delight that inspires creativity in both preparation and presentation. Whether grilling them for a summer barbecue or searing for a cozy dinner, steak tips consistently deliver outstanding taste and texture, making them a beloved choice among meat lovers.
Steak Tips with Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds sirloin tips, uncut
- ½ (750 milliliter) bottle Burgundy wine
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans beef broth
- 4 portobello mushroom caps, sliced
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Directions
- Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Sauté shallot until transparent, then add mushrooms and cook covered until darkened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove mushrooms from the pan and set aside. Deglaze the pan with 1 can of beef broth and Burgundy. Increase heat and bring to a boil. Allow mixture to boil until reduced by 1/3.
- Grill sirloin tips on preheated grill to desired doneness. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Remove to a plate, and set aside.
- When the sauce is reduced, stir in the remaining can of beef broth, garlic, and thyme. Return to a boil, and continue to cook for 5 to 10 minutes. Sauce will be thin like au jus. Whisk in flour and cook until the sauce is the desired thickness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in mushrooms. Serve tips with mushroom sauce spooned over.
Prep Time: 10 Min | Cooking Time: 30 Min | Total Time: 40 Min | Servings: 6
Selecting the Best Meat for Steak Tips: A Butcher’s Advice
Choosing the right cut of meat is crucial for making delicious steak tips. The best cuts for this dish come from the sirloin or the flank, known for their flavor and tenderness.
Key Cuts Of Steak Tips
Sirloin Tips: Often referred to as flap meat, sirloin tips come from the sirloin flap, close to the animal’s rear. This cut is prized for its balance of flavor and tenderness. It’s also relatively affordable, making it a popular choice.
Flank Steak: Although less traditional, flank steak can be used for steak tips if sirloin isn’t available. It requires a bit more tenderizing, so a good marinade is essential.
Butcher’s Tips for Buying
Ask for Fresh Cuts: Freshness is key to flavorful steak tips. Ask your butcher for the freshest cuts available, and if possible, have them trim the meat for you.
Look for Marbling: Good marbling (fat running through the meat) is a sign of quality in beef cuts. It adds flavor and helps keep the steak tips juicy during cooking.
Discuss Cut Size: Depending on your cooking method, the size of the cuts can vary. For quick searing, smaller pieces are ideal. Discuss with your butcher the best size for your cooking needs.
Marinating Techniques: How Long and Why It Matters
Marinating is key to transforming good steak tips into great ones. The right marinade not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it, making each bite juicier and more delicious.
The Purpose of Marinades
Marinades typically combine acids (like vinegar or citrus juice), oils, and seasonings. The acid helps tenderize the meat by breaking down tougher proteins. Oils help keep the meat moist during cooking, and seasonings add a depth of flavor.
Optimal Marinating Time
Short Marinating Times: A marinating time of 30 minutes to 2 hours is often enough, especially if the marinade is acidic. This duration helps the meat absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
Longer Marinating Times: If your schedule allows, marinating steak tips for up to 4 hours can enhance the flavor depth. For less acidic marinades, a longer soak is beneficial, but avoid marinating for more than 4 hours as the meat can start to break down excessively.
Tips for Effective Marinating
Use a Non-reactive Container: Marinate in glass, ceramic, or plastic containers. Metal can react with the acid in marinades and impart a metallic taste to the meat.
Keep It Covered and Chilled: Always marinate meat in the refrigerator to keep it safe from bacteria. Cover the container to keep the flavors in and other odors out.
Turning the Meat: To marinate evenly, turn the steak tips occasionally. This ensures all parts of the meat are equally exposed to the marinade.
Cooking Methods: Grilling vs. Searing
Cooking steak tips properly is essential for achieving a caramelized exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Two popular methods are grilling and searing. Each method brings out different flavors and textures in the meat.
Grilling Steak Tips
Benefits of Grilling:
- Grilling imparts a smoky flavor that is highly prized in steak tips.
- It allows fat to drip away, resulting in a leaner piece of meat.
Grilling Tips:
- Preheat the grill to a high temperature before adding the steak tips.
- Cook on direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness, to achieve a good sear with grill marks.
- Use tongs to turn the meat, avoiding piercing it, which can let juices escape.
Searing Steak Tips
Benefits of Searing:
- Searing in a pan, especially cast iron, provides a uniformly crisp exterior.
- It allows for cooking in marinade remnants, adding more flavor.
Searing Tips:
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Once hot, add the steak tips without overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until the exterior is deeply caramelized.
Choosing Between Grilling and Searing
The choice between grilling and searing often comes down to preference and available tools. Grilling is great for adding a smoky flavor, while searing provides a consistent crust and can be easier for those cooking indoors.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way steak tips are served can significantly enhance their appeal and make your meal feel special. Here are some tips to present steak beautifully and appetizingly.
Plating Steak Tips
Choosing the Right Plate:
- Opt for warm plates to keep it hot when served.
- Use a plate that contrasts with the color of the meat for visual appeal, such as a white or light-colored plate.
Arrangement on the Plate:
- Arrange it neatly on one side of the plate, allowing room for side dishes.
- Spoon a little of the cooking sauce over the tips to add shine and flavor.
Garnishing
Adding Freshness:
- Sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Consider a light sprinkle of coarse salt to enhance flavor just before serving.
Using Garnishes for Contrast:
- Add a wedge of lemon or a small bowl of sauce on the side for guests to add according to their taste.
- Garnishes like a sprig of thyme or rosemary can add a rustic touch.
Accompanying Sides
Choosing Complementary Sides:
- Serve with sides that complement the rich flavors , such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Consider the color and texture of sides to make the plate visually appealing.
Presentation Techniques
Layering Flavors and Textures:
- Layer over a bed of mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the sauce and add texture to the presentation.
- Place greens or vegetables next to the steak tips to add color and balance the richness of the meat.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook steak tips?
Cooking steak tips perfectly involves selecting a potent marinade and choosing the right cooking method to maximize flavor and tenderness. Starting with the marinade, key ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs create a rich flavor base, while adding an acid such as lemon juice or balsamic vinegar helps tenderize the meat by breaking down tough fibers.
Once marinated, the choice of cooking method is crucial. Grilling is popular for imparting a smoky flavor and a desirable char. Begin by heating your grill to high to sear the meat effectively, locking in juices. Cook the steak tips for 3-4 minutes on each side, adjusting based on their thickness and your desired level of doneness.
Alternatively, searing in a heavy skillet, especially cast iron, provides excellent results. Heat the skillet over medium-high, add a bit of oil, and add the steak tips without overcrowding. Cook until they develop a deep, caramelized crust, then flip and repeat. This method seals in the juices and creates a crust that contrasts with the tender interior.
After cooking, let the steak tips rest to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Serve with complementary sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
Are steak tips tough?
Steak tips can vary in tenderness based on several factors, including the cut of meat and how it’s prepared. Generally, steak tips are not tough if they are properly cooked and chosen from the right parts of the beef.
Steak tips are typically cut from the sirloin or sometimes the tenderloin areas, which are known for their tenderness and flavor. These cuts contain more marbling and connective tissues that, when cooked correctly, can become tender and juicy. The key to ensuring that steak tips are not tough lies in selecting the right cut and cooking it properly.
Marinating the steak tips can significantly improve their tenderness. A good marinade with acids like vinegar or citrus juice will help break down some of the tough muscle fibers and add flavor that penetrates the meat. This process not only tenderizes the steak tips but also enhances their overall taste.
Cooking methods also play a critical role in the tenderness of steak tips. Overcooking can make even the best cuts tough and chewy. It’s crucial to cook steak tips just until they reach the desired doneness—usually best between medium rare to medium. This ensures that they remain moist and tender. Grilling or searing over high heat quickly cooks the exterior, creating a flavorful crust, while keeping the inside tender.
Lastly, how you cut the steak tips can influence their tenderness. Always slice meat against the grain, which shortens the muscle fibers and makes the meat easier to chew. This cutting technique can make a noticeable difference in the texture of the steak tips.