Grilled elk steak is a delicious and flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of this lean and tender meat. Here’s a simple recipe for grilled elk steak:
Ingredients:
- 2 elk steaks (about 8-10 ounces each), preferably at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Elk Steaks:
- Remove the elk steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the meat to cook more evenly.
- Pat the elk steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Marinate the Steaks:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Rub the marinade all over the elk steaks, making sure to coat them evenly. Allow the steaks to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F or 204-232°C). Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Elk Steaks:
- Place the marinated elk steaks on the preheated grill. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, or adjust the cooking time according to your preference and the thickness of the steaks.
- Use tongs to flip the steaks only once during cooking. Avoid pressing down on the steaks with a spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in dry meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. For medium-rare elk steak, the temperature should register 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the elk steaks reach the desired level of doneness, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a cutting board. Tent the steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- After resting, slice the elk steaks against the grain into thin strips. Serve the grilled elk steak hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your delicious grilled elk steak with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Grilled elk steak pairs well with a variety of flavors and can be served as a satisfying and nutritious main course for any occasion. Adjust the seasonings and cooking time to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the rich, natural flavor of this wild game meat.