Smoky Bourbon Glazed Tomahawk Steak 🥩🔥🥃

A show-stopping, bone-in tomahawk steak seared to perfection and glazed with a rich, smoky bourbon sauce for an unforgettable, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

🌟 Ingredients:

🥩 The Steak:

• 1 tomahawk steak (2-2.5 lbs, 2 inches thick) – A beautifully marbled, bone-in ribeye for ultimate flavor.
• 1 tbsp kosher salt – To enhance natural beefiness.
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper – For a bold bite.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – A savory base.
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For a little heat.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps the seasoning adhere and promotes a great sear.

🔥 Bourbon Glaze:

• ½ cup bourbon whiskey – Infuses a rich, smoky caramel flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar (or maple syrup) – Balances the smoky notes with a touch of sweetness.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – For a silky, glossy finish.
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds depth and tang.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami.
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar – Brightens and balances flavors.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – For extra aromatic punch.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a mild heat kick.

🧈 Butter Basting:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
• 2 cloves garlic (smashed)

🔥 Cooking Process:

1️⃣ Preparing the Steak (Flavor Starts Here!)

1. Remove the tomahawk steak from the fridge 45-60 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
2. Pat dry with paper towels and rub both sides with olive oil.
3. Generously season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
4. Let it rest at room temp while you prepare the glaze.

2️⃣ Making the Bourbon Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add bourbon and let it simmer for 1 minute to burn off the alcohol.
2. Stir in brown sugar, butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

3️⃣ Reverse Sear for the Perfect Steak

(For thick steaks like a tomahawk, the reverse-sear method ensures even cooking!)

Option 1: Oven + Cast Iron (Best for Even Cooking)

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet and roast until the internal temperature reaches:
   • 120°F (49°C) for Rare
   • 130°F (54°C) for Medium-Rare (Recommended!)
   • 140°F (60°C) for Medium
3. This should take 45-60 minutes.

Option 2: Grill Method (For a Smokier Flavor!)

1. Set up a two-zone fire on the grill (one side high heat, one side indirect heat).
2. Cook the steak over indirect heat (250°F) for about 45 minutes, flipping once.

4️⃣ Searing for a Crispy Crust

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over high heat.
2. Add 1 tbsp butter, rosemary, and smashed garlic to the pan.
3. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, spooning the butter over it continuously.

5️⃣ Bourbon Glaze & Resting

1. Brush the steak generously with the bourbon glaze while searing the last minute.
2. Remove from heat, tent with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes (this redistributes juices).
3. Slice against the grain and serve with extra glaze on the side.

🍷 Perfect Pairings:

• Garlic herb mashed potatoes or truffle fries.
• Grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts.
• A bold red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec) or an old-fashioned bourbon cocktail.

🔥 Pro Tips for a Legendary Steak:

✔ For an extra smoky touch, add a few wood chips to the grill while cooking.
✔ For deeper caramelization, let the bourbon glaze sit on the steak for a minute before searing.
✔ To reheat without drying out, wrap in foil and warm in a 250°F oven for 10 minutes.

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