When it comes to grilling a steak for a special occasion, nothing compares to a grilled porterhouse steak. Robust and brawny, this cut of meat is reminiscent of the dinners Fred Flintstone would enjoy. This popular cut of meat is beloved among steak-lovers, right up there with Prime Rib. Easily found on the top of steakhouse menus as a meal for two due to its sheer size, it's hard to understand that the cut actually comes from a cow and not a dinosaur. So the question is, what is a porterhouse steak, and where can you get one?
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What is a Porterhouse Steak?
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A porterhouse steak comes from the short loin portion of the cow, beneath the backbone where the strip steak, tenderloin and T-bone meet. This tasty steak includes a "T" shaped bone with meat on both sides, making it appear similar to T-bone steaks. Porterhouse steak is cut from the rear of the short loin and includes tenderloin steak along with top loin, also called New York Strip, making it a composite steak.
Although porterhouse steaks are similar to T bone steaks, they're typically larger and thicker. Because of the steak's impressive size, it's often eaten as a meal for two. Porterhouse steaks are unique because they contain both tenderloin and New York Strip, so meat eaters can enjoy the rich flavors of both cuts of meat in one meal.
Since porterhouse steaks are made up of two cuts of meat, they contain multiple flavors within one steak. The top loin portion has deliciously marbled fat, giving it a robust flavor and a juicy texture. As for the tenderloin, it's leaner, more tender and will melt in your mouth when cooked right.
Where to Buy a Porterhouse Steak
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Since a porterhouse steak is more unique than some classic steak cuts, it can be harder to find exactly what you're looking for. The best option is to find a local butcher who sells high-quality cuts of meat. Look for cuts of meat with rich flavor and no visible browning. The fat should be bright white, and there should be marbling, which looks like thin veins of fat. Choose a steak at least 1½ inches thick so that it can stay juicy and tender on the outside while forming a golden brown crust.
Porterhouse steak can be seared on a skillet, broiler or grill. Although it doesn't need much flavor, salt and light seasoning adds a delicious touch to the meal. Enjoy a porterhouse steak for the next holiday or special occasion!
This post was originally published on December 17, 2020.
