What is a Delmonico Steak?
At the heart of its allure is the name itself—Delmonico. It's a nod to an era of dining opulence, originating from Delmonico's Restaurant in New York City, a place that set the gold standard for fine dining in the 19th century. So, what exactly makes a Delmonico steak truly a cut above the rest? It's a question that brings many to the table.
Over the years, "Delmonico steak" has been used to describe several different cuts, each selected by the restaurant's chefs for their supreme quality and uniquely rich marbling that runs throughout the meat. However, from a technical perspective, the Delmonico steak is most popularly recognized as originating from a premium section of beef, specifically at the transition of the 13th rib and the loin area. This special location near the loin means the Delmonico shares its neighborhood with cuts like the New York strip, giving the Delmonico a resemblance to an oversized strip steak. At this juncture of the cow lies a rectangular block of beef that's richly marbled and intensely flavorful. The Delmonico steak cut from butchers like Acabonac Farms is some of the most sought after meat in the world.
The History of Delmonico Steak
The Delmonico steak's journey from a New York City restaurant to a symbol of fine dining is a fascinating tale. First served in the 19th century at Delmonico's, this steak became synonymous with indulgence. The presence of a Delmonico steak at an establishment was thought of as a reflection of the restaurant's commitment to innovation and the ultimate culinary experience.
Delmonico's, founded by the Delmonico brothers, Giovanni and Pietro, in 1837, was an institution that would set the standard for American dining for decades to come. As Delmonico's Restaurant grew in fame, so did the reputation of its signature steak. The Delmonico steak became synonymous with the finest beef, period. It was not just a meal, it was an experience and a luxury that patrons came to expect from the Delmonico name.
The Debate Around the Cut
If you haven’t noticed yet, there’s quite a lot of debate around what exactly constitutes a Delmonico. Where exactly is it harvested? Can you call other cuts a Delmonico? As mentioned earlier in the article, the Delmonico cut is most commonly harvested at the transition of the 13th rib and the loin area - but out in the culinary wild, the answers you get might not be so cut and dry. The exact location of the cut and its preparation have varied, from restaurant to restaurant, butcher to butcher, over the years. Despite these debates, the steak remains a beloved part of American culinary history, and a symbol of the best a steak can be.
How to Identify a Delmonico Steak
A helpful way to distinguish the Delmonico steak from other premium cuts like the ribeye is to take a look at its size. Delmonico steaks typically stand out due to their substantial heft, often tipping the scales at nearly one pound, while the traditional ribeye usually weighs about half a pound. The thickness of the cut can also give it away. Delmonico steaks push about 2 inches in thickness while ribeyes usually max out at around 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
Also, observe the marbling pattern in the steak. Cuts like the New York strip are also sometimes mistaken for the Delmonico, but the difference is clear when it comes to the ribbons of fat throughout the meat. New York strip steak has a leaner profile with a defined fat edge along one side of the cut. The Delmonico, on the other hand, boasts much thicker marbling that runs evenly throughout the cut.
Overall, look for a thick cut of meat that boasts rich marbling and a vibrant red coloration—qualities that stand out even to the casual observer. Identifying a Delmonico steak can be a bit of an art form, given its variability. When in doubt, a conversation with your butcher can shed light on which cuts they consider worthy of the Delmonico name.
What Does a Delmonico Steak Taste Like?
A Delmonico steak, done right, is a feast for the senses. It’s known for its deep, rich flavor and buttery tenderness. The marbling ensures each bite is succulent, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the finer points of steak.
Is Delmonico Steak Tough?
When properly aged and cooked, a Delmonico steak is anything but tough. The key lies in selecting a quality cut and employing the right cooking techniques to bring out its inherent tenderness.
Is Delmonico Steak Fatty?
The fat content of a Delmonico steak contributes to its flavor and juiciness, making it one of the more indulgent choices. However, this marbling is precisely what allows the steak to remain tender and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
How to Prepare a Delmonico Steak Cut
Preparing a Delmonico steak to perfection is an art, and you don’t wanna go into it blind. This luxurious cut, with its rich marbling and deep flavors, calls for a cooking approach that enhances its inherent qualities. Here's how to do justice to a Delmonico steak, whether you're a seasoned grill master or a home cook looking to knock it out of the park.
The best recipes for cooking Delmonico Steak involve steps to ensure the meat is properly prepared and the right seasonings are selected (the goal is to complement, not overshadow the natural flavors of the cut).
Grilling Delmonico Steak
Grilling is the quintessential method for cooking steaks, offering a smoky flavor and a desirable charred exterior that steak aficionados love.
- Preparation: Start by bringing your Delmonico steak to room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Lightly oil and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Grill Setup: Preheat your grill to high heat. If you're using charcoal, aim for a two-zone setup with a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for more gentle cooking.
- Cooking: Sear the steak over direct high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side to develop a rich, caramelized crust. Move it to the cooler part of the grill and continue cooking to your preferred doneness, usually 2-5 minutes more per side depending on thickness and desired internal temperature.
- Resting: Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Broiling Delmonico Steak
Broiling mimics the high heat of grilling, using the top-down heat of an oven's broiler to create a succulent steak with a delicious crust.
- Preparation: Bring the steak to room temperature and season it well. Preheat your broiler to high and position the oven rack so that the steak will be 3-4 inches from the heat source.
- Broiling Pan: Place the steak on a preheated broiler pan or a rack over a baking sheet to catch drips. This setup helps air circulate around the steak, cooking it more evenly.
- Cooking: Broil the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Keep the oven door ajar to prevent the broiler from cycling off and to keep an eye on the steak to prevent charring.
- Resting: Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This rest period is crucial for a juicy, tender steak.
Pan-Searing Delmonico Steak
Pan-searing is ideal for achieving a flavorful crust with a tender and juicy interior, perfect for an indoor cooking option.
- Preparation: Bring the steak to room temperature. Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat until very hot. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper.
- Searing: Add a small amount of high-smoke-point oil to the pan, then place the steak in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steak and sear the other side.
- Finishing: For a medium-rare finish, continue cooking in the pan, frequently flipping for an even crust, until the desired doneness is reached—about 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Optionally, for thicker cuts, you can finish the steak in a 375°F (190°C) oven for a more gentle cook.
- Resting: Let the steak rest on a warm plate for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it.
What to Eat with a Delmonico Steak
Complement a Delmonico steak with sides that match its richness—think creamy mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a bold Caesar salad. For a perfect pairing, try our Delmonico steak grill recipe featuring a fall Spice Rub with Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad. A full-bodied red wine rounds out the dining experience, elevating the steak to new heights.
How to Choose a Delmonico Steak
When selecting a Delmonico steak, look for vibrant red color, substantial marbling that runs throughout the cut evenly, and a fresh scent. These indicators, along with a trusted butcher's advice, can guide you to the best choice. It’s important to source your Delmonico steak from a supplier with cattle raised on a nutritious, natural diet that ensures the richest of flavor.
100% Grass-Fed Delmonico Steak from Acabonac Farms
Acabonac Farms’ cattle live exclusively on green grassy pastures and are raised with no antibiotics, fillers, or hormones - just the way the original Delmonico steak was meant to be. Interested in getting this elusive, one-of-a-kind steak delivered right to your front door?
Acabonac Farms offers 100% grass-fed Delmonico steak, bringing a new level of flavor and nutrition to this historic cut.