Our butchers tips

Sirloin Steaks Aged to Perfection with Himalayan Salt

Sirloin steak is a prime cut of beef that comes from the rear back portion of the animal, specifically situated behind the ribs but ahead of the rump area. In culinary terms, it’s renowned for its balanced distribution of lean meat and marbling, which makes it both tender and full of flavour. The sirloin is one of the most versatile and widely enjoyed cuts, suitable for various cooking methods such as grilling and pan-searing.

One of the remarkable aspects of sirloin steak is its adaptability to different treatments. Whether you’re aiming for a classic steak dinner or slicing it thinly for a stir-fry, the sirloin’s composition ensures it remains juicy and succulent, provided it’s cooked correctly.

The quality of a sirloin steak can vary greatly depending on several factors including the breed of cattle, its diet, and how it was reared. Premium sirloin steaks, like the ones we offer, come from native breeds that are responsibly reared, on grass-based diets, which contribute to the meat’s flavour and tenderness.

Dry-aging is another significant factor that can elevate the quality of sirloin steak. The process involves aging the meat in a controlled environment for several weeks, allowing natural enzymatic and biochemical processes to break down muscle fibre and connective tissue. This not only tenderises the meat but also concentrates its flavours. When Himalayan rock salt is used in the dry-aging process, it can add a unique depth of flavour while also acting as a natural preservative.

Ways to Cook Sirloin Steak

Here are some popular ways to cook sirloin steak:

BBQ Grilling: One of the most popular methods, grilling imbues the steak with a smoky flavour while allowing the exterior to develop a rich, caramelised crust. High heat and quick cooking times are key here.
Pan-Searing: Using a heavy skillet, usually cast iron, the steak is cooked on high heat until a brown crust forms. This method is fantastic for locking in juices and is often followed by a brief resting period.
Sous-Vide: For those who crave precision, sous-vide involves sealing the steak in a vacuum bag and cooking it in a water bath at a specific temperature. This ensures the meat is evenly cooked and exceedingly tender, but it usually requires finishing with a quick sear for that all-important crust.
Grilling: Using the oven’s grill allows for high-heat cooking from above. This method works well for thinner cuts and is quick and straightforward, although it can be a bit less forgiving than others.
Reverse Searing: Perfect for thicker cuts, this method involves slow-cooking the steak in the oven at a low temperature, followed by a quick, high-heat sear in a skillet. The result is a steak that’s uniformly cooked with a beautifully browned exterior.
Stir-Frying: When sliced thinly, sirloin can be quickly cooked in a hot wok or skillet with vegetables and sauces, ideal for Asian-inspired dishes.
Smoking: While less common for sirloin, smoking the steak at a lower temperature imparts a deep, woodsy flavour but takes a longer time.
Slow-Cooking: While not the most traditional method for a premium cut like sirloin, slow-cooking is an option for those who enjoy softer, shred-like meat textures. It’s often used in stews or one-pot dishes.
Oven-Roasting: This technique is more commonly used for larger, bone-in cuts but can be adapted for sirloin steaks. A slow roast allows for a more uniform internal temperature, ideal for those who prefer medium to well-done steaks.

Some Inspiration from Well Known Chefs

Gordon Ramsay’s Classic Steak Diane: This retro dish involves pan-searing the sirloin and then flambeing it in brandy. A creamy mushroom and mustard sauce completes the luxurious experience. Ramsay puts a modern twist on it by insisting on the highest quality meat and a perfect sear.
Jamie Oliver’s “Perfect Steak” Method: Jamie is all about simplicity and quality. His suggestion is to season the sirloin generously with sea salt and black pepper, cook it on high heat with a bit of olive oil, and then finish it off with a dollop of butter, a couple of garlic cloves, and a sprig of rosemary or thyme.
Marco Pierre White’s Grilled Sirloin with Salsa Verde: Marco Pierre White offers an Italian touch, recommending that a grilled sirloin be served with a vibrant salsa verde made of herbs, capers, mustard, and olive oil.
Alain Ducasse’s Sirloin with Red Wine Reduction: The French chef suggests a classic pairing of red wine reduction sauce to elevate the sirloin steak. The sauce is made from a quality red wine, beef stock, shallots, and a bit of butter to finish.
Heston Blumenthal’s Sous-Vide Method: Known for his scientific approach to cooking, Blumenthal recommends the sous-vide method for a sirloin steak. This ensures that the steak is cooked evenly throughout. He then recommends searing it in a hot pan for a caramelised exterior.

Nutritional Value of Sirloin Steak

Here are some general nutritional facts for a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of cooked sirloin steak:

Calories: Approximately 250

Protein: Around 22–25 grams

Total Fat: 17–20 grams

Saturated Fat: 6–7 grams

Monounsaturated Fat: 8 grams

Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 gram

Cholesterol: Roughly 70–80 mg

Sodium: Approximately 50–60 mg

Potassium: About 300–350 mg

Iron: 1.6–2.0 mg (approximately 10% of the Recommended Daily Intake)

Nutritional Highlights:

High Protein Content: Sirloin is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.

Rich in Vitamins: Sirloin provides a good amount of B vitamins, particularly B12, which is crucial for red blood cell formation and proper neurological function.

Mineral Content: This cut of beef is a good source of minerals like zinc, selenium, and phosphorus, which play vital roles in immune function, antioxidant defence, and bone health, respectively.

Lower Fat: Compared to other steak cuts like ribeye, sirloin tends to be leaner, making it a better option for those monitoring fat intake.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Though not as high as in fatty fish, sirloin does contain some omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Collagen and Amino Acids: Sirloin contains collagen, which is beneficial for skin, hair, and joint health. It also provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

Low in Carbohydrates: Like most meats, sirloin is low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.