Tuscan-style Steak

Tuscan-style Steak Recipe from Italy with Rosemary and Balsamic Vinegar

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 2

Introduction

Tuscan-style steak is a classic Italian dish that features flavorful marinated steaks grilled to perfection. The combination of fresh rosemary, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil creates a delicious marinade that infuses the meat with rich and savory flavors.

History

Tuscan-style steak, also known as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, originates from the Tuscany region of Italy. This dish is traditionally made with a thick cut of beef, such as a porterhouse or T-bone steak, and is seasoned with simple yet bold ingredients like garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. The steak is then grilled over an open flame to achieve a charred exterior and juicy interior.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of tightly packed fresh rosemary leaves
0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
1 large or 2 small cloves of garlic, crushed
sea salt, to taste
ground black pepper, to taste
2 boneless rib eye steaks, about 0.75 lb (340 g) each

How to prepare

In a blender, blend together the rosemary, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour half of the marinade over the steaks, flip them, and coat the other side with the remaining marinade.
Let the steaks marinate for 2 hours to overnight.
When you're ready to cook, prepare the grill.
Allow any excess marinade to drip off the steaks.
Grill the steaks for about 6 to 9 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Variations

Try using different herbs in the marinade, such as thyme or oregano.
Add a splash of red wine to the marinade for extra depth of flavor.
Substitute the balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar for a tangier taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the steaks for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Use a hot grill to sear the steaks and lock in the juices.

- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tuscan-style steak with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred method for cooking Tuscan-style steak, as it imparts a smoky flavor and creates a nice char on the outside of the meat. Make sure to preheat the grill to high heat before cooking the steaks.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh rosemary, you can use dried rosemary instead. Just use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Tuscan-style steak thinly and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Tuscan-style steak with a bold red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tuscan-style steak contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the size of the steak and the amount of olive oil used in the marinade.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the extra virgin olive oil used in the marinade. Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that provides monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

Proteins

Steak is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Each serving of Tuscan-style steak provides a substantial amount of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rosemary is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron. Garlic is rich in vitamin B6, manganese, and selenium. These ingredients add a nutritional boost to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Tuscan-style steak is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tuscan-style steak is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the flavors of Italy. With a simple marinade and a hot grill, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own backyard. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this classic Italian dish!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Tuscan-style Steak. It was a warm summer day in Tuscany, Italy, where my husband and I were enjoying a romantic getaway. We had decided to explore the beautiful countryside and stumbled upon a quaint little trattoria nestled in the rolling hills.

As we entered the restaurant, the aroma of sizzling steak and herbs filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. We were greeted by a friendly elderly woman who introduced herself as Nonna Maria. She was the matriarch of the family-run trattoria and the mastermind behind the delicious Tuscan dishes they served.

Nonna Maria welcomed us with open arms and invited us to join her in the kitchen to watch her prepare her famous Tuscan-style Steak. I eagerly accepted the invitation, eager to learn the secrets behind this mouthwatering dish.

As Nonna Maria guided me through the steps of preparing the steak, she shared with me the story of how she learned the recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. She explained that the key to the dish was using the freshest ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together slowly over low heat.

I watched in awe as Nonna Maria expertly seasoned the steak with a blend of herbs and spices, then seared it to perfection in a hot skillet. The sizzle of the meat as it cooked filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that made my stomach growl with hunger.

As the steak finished cooking, Nonna Maria plated it with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. She then invited us to sit at the rustic wooden table and enjoy the feast she had prepared.

The first bite of the Tuscan-style Steak was a revelation. The meat was tender and juicy, bursting with flavor from the herbs and spices. The roasted vegetables added a delicious sweetness to the dish, while the balsamic glaze added a tangy kick that tied everything together perfectly.

As we savored every bite of the meal, Nonna Maria regaled us with stories of her family and the traditions they had passed down through generations. She spoke of the importance of food as a way to bring people together and create cherished memories.

By the time we finished our meal, I knew that I had to learn how to make this incredible dish for myself. I begged Nonna Maria to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.

Over the years, I have made Tuscan-style Steak countless times for my family and friends, each time bringing a little taste of Italy into their homes. I have added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating different herbs and spices to make it my own.

But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always brings me back to that warm summer day in Tuscany, watching Nonna Maria cook with love and passion. It is a recipe that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.