What is Scottona Steak?
Scottona is a premium beef from Italian cattle, known for its superior marbling and tender texture. It comes from younger cows, typically around 15 months old, resulting in a more delicate flavor compared to mature cuts. Cooking Scottona steak requires attention to detail to ensure it reaches the desired level of doneness while retaining its natural juiciness.
Preparation and Seasoning
Before you start grilling, it’s crucial to bring your Scottona steak to room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout the steak.
Next, season your steak generously with salt and pepper. The simplicity of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavor of the meat without overpowering it. If desired, you can also add your favorite steak seasonings or a dry rub to complement the beef’s taste profile.
Grilling Techniques
1. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill plate to medium-high heat to achieve a good sear on the steak. Make sure the grill plate is clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Searing: Place your seasoned Scottona steak directly on the preheated grill plate. Sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side to develop a beautiful crust. This quick sear locks in the juices, creating that desirable contrast between the charred exterior and the tender, juicy center.
3. Adjusting the heat: After searing, reduce the heat to medium or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill plate. This step allows the steak’s interior to cook without overcooking the outer layers. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired doneness.
4. Checking the doneness: To determine the steak’s doneness, you can use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. Here are the internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium Well: 155°F (68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
5. Resting: Once your Scottona steak reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the grill plate and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes on a cutting board. Resting allows the juices to redistribute evenly, ensuring a moist and flavorful steak.
Serving and Enjoying
Now that your perfectly cooked Scottona steak is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Slice the steak against the grain to enhance tenderness and plate it beautifully. You can serve it as is with a side of your favorite sauce or pair it with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Remember, cooking Scottona steak perfectly on a grill plate requires practice and attention to detail. With time, you’ll become a master in creating mouthwatering steak experiences for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy!