How to season the Florentine steak

The Florentine , also known as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, is a renowned dish that originated from the city of Florence in Italy. This T-bone steak is known for its simplicity and bold flavors. While cooking the steak to perfection is crucial, the seasoning plays an equally vital role in elevating its taste. In this article, we will guide you on how to season the Florentine steak to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

Before diving into the seasoning process, it’s crucial to note that the Florentine steak calls for high-quality meat. Opt for a thick, dry-aged T-bone steak, preferably around 2 to 2.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures a juicy and tender steak when prepared correctly.

To begin, bring the steak to room temperature by taking it out of the refrigerator and letting it rest for about an hour. Room temperature steaks cook more evenly and result in a juicier end product.

Next, it’s time to season the steak. The Florentine steak is traditionally seasoned with just a few ingredients: olive oil, salt, and pepper. The minimalistic approach allows the natural flavors of the steak to shine through.

Start by drizzling a generous amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the entire surface of the steak. The olive oil not only helps to form a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak but also assists in conducting heat evenly throughout the meat.

Once the olive oil is evenly distributed, it’s time to season the steak with salt and pepper. Liberally sprinkle coarse sea salt over the entire surface of the steak, ensuring that all sides are evenly coated. The salt acts as a flavor enhancer and helps to tenderize the meat. Similarly, grind fresh black pepper over the steak, offering a subtle kick of heat that perfectly complements the richness of the beef.

To ensure the seasonings penetrate the steak, gently rub them into the meat using the tips of your fingers. This step contributes to the development of an ideal crust while infusing the steak with flavors.

Once the steak is seasoned, it’s time to cook it to perfection. The traditional method of cooking Florentine steak involves ing over sizzling hot charcoal. Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for a temperature around 700-800°F. Place the steak over direct heat and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness.

After cooking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent steak.

Finally, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Slice the Florentine steak against the bone and serve it on a warmed plate. The unadorned seasoning allows the flavors of the perfectly cooked meat to shine through. Accompany your steak with classic Tuscan sides like roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete Florentine dining experience.

In conclusion, seasoning the Florentine steak involves a simple yet effective combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper. The quality of the ingredients and the cooking technique hold the key to a delicious end result. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to savoring a memorable Florentine steak that bursts with flavors and tenderness. Buon appetito!