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Guide to Cooking Featherblade Steaks

Featherblade steak, known for its rich flavour and tenderness, is a versatile cut that shines in both quick and slow-cooking methods. Whether pan-seared, grilled, or braised, it offers endless possibilities for delicious meals. This guide covers the best ways to cook featherblade steak, pairing ideas, and drinks to complement its deep, beefy character, ensuring you make the most of this underrated cut.

INGREDIENTS

For 2 servings:

  • 2 featherblade steaks (approximately 200-250g each)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme
  • 30g unsalted butter

Optional:

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika or dried chilli flakes (for a spiced rub)
METHOD

  • Bring the steaks to room temperature by removing them from the fridge 30-40 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
  • Pat the steaks dry with kitchen paper to help achieve a good sear.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. For added depth, rub the steaks with smoked paprika or dried chilli flakes if desired.

Cooking the Steak:

  • Heat a heavy-based frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot.
  • Add the olive oil and swirl it around the pan.
  • Place the steaks in the pan, allowing them to sear for 2-3 minutes without moving them. This creates a golden-brown crust.
  • Flip the steaks and cook for another 2-3 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 54°C. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference.
  • Reduce the heat slightly, add the crushed garlic, rosemary or thyme, and butter. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for an extra layer of flavour.
  • Remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a warm plate to rest for 5-7 minutes. This redistributes the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Optional Finishing Step:

  • For added caramelisation, briefly return the steaks to the pan after resting and sear each side for 30 seconds.

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Featherblade steaks are versatile and can be cooked in various ways, depending on the texture and flavour profile you're aiming for. Here’s a rundown of different methods to make the most of this cut:


Quick-Cooking Methods

These methods are perfect for tender, juicy steaks served medium-rare to medium.

Pan-Seared on the Hob

  • Ideal for achieving a caramelised crust and maintaining a juicy interior.
  • Use a heavy-based pan or skillet.
  • Finish with butter, garlic, and herbs for added depth.

Grilling or Barbecuing

  • Great for a smoky flavour.
  • Marinate the steaks beforehand if desired for added moisture and taste.
  • Grill over high heat, flipping once to ensure even cooking.

Oven Grill

  • An excellent option when you can’t use a hob or outdoor grill.
  • Place steaks on a wire rack over a tray and position them close to the oven’s grill element.
  • Turn midway through cooking for even browning.

Slow-Cooking Methods

For dishes where you want fall-apart tenderness and deep flavour.

Braising

  • Featherblade steaks can be braised in liquid (e.g., red wine, beef stock, or ale) with aromatics and vegetables.
  • Cook in a covered pot in the oven at 150°C for 3-4 hours.
  • This method is perfect for creating rich stews or shredded beef for tacos or sandwiches.

Slow Cooker

  • Add seasoned steaks to the slow cooker along with onions, garlic, and a sauce or stock.
  • Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  • Great for making tender shredded beef.

Specialty Cooking Methods

For a twist on traditional steak preparation.

Sous Vide

  • Cook the steaks in a vacuum-sealed bag at 54°C for 1-2 hours for precise, edge-to-edge doneness.
  • Finish with a hot sear in a pan for a crusty exterior.
  • This is a fool proof method to avoid overcooking.

Smoked

  • Smoke the steaks on a barbecue or smoker at low heat (110°C) for 1-2 hours until they reach your desired internal temperature.
  • Finish with a quick sear over high heat.
  • Adds a deep, smoky flavour that complements the beef’s natural richness.

Creative Uses

Featherblade steaks aren’t just for standalone servings—get creative with how you incorporate them into meals.

Steak Sandwiches

  • Slice thinly after cooking and rest, then layer onto a crusty baguette with caramelised onions, horseradish sauce, or mustard.

Tacos or Wraps

  • Shred slow-cooked featherblade and serve in tacos with salsa, avocado, and lime.

Stir-Fries

  • Thinly slice the steak against the grain and sear quickly in a wok with soy sauce, ginger, and vegetables.

Salads

  • Serve grilled steak slices over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and a tangy balsamic dressing.

Steak Pie

  • Slow-cook the featherblade, then use the tender meat in a rich gravy for filling a classic steak and ale pie.

Beef Ragu or Pasta Sauce

  • Braise featherblade in tomatoes, garlic, and red wine, then shred and serve over pasta.

Related Recipes & Guides

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Native Breed Bavette Steak with Yorkshire Nduja Butter

Italian Meatballs

Italian Meatballs with a rich Ragu Sauce

Grid Iron Recipes

Grid Iron Gourmet

Preparation Time: 30-40 minutes, including bringing the steaks to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes for cooking, plus 5-7 minutes resting time.

Hot Tips

  • For grilling and pan-searing, avoid overcooking to prevent toughness. Featherblade shines at medium-rare.
  • If slow-cooking, sear the steaks first to lock in flavour and enhance the dish’s richness.
  • Always slice against the grain for the most tender results, no matter the method.

Pairings

Red Wines

Featherblade steak’s rich, beefy flavour works particularly well with bold red wines.

  • Malbec: Its dark fruit flavours and smooth tannins complement the steak’s meaty richness.
  • Syrah/Shiraz: A slightly spiced and smoky wine that enhances grilled or pan-seared steaks.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: The tannins in this wine cut through the steak’s fattiness, making it a classic pairing.
  • Merlot: A softer option with fruity notes, ideal if the steak is served with a sweeter sauce like a red wine reduction.
  • Zinfandel: Offers a jammy richness that complements slow-cooked featherblade dishes.

White Wines

Though red wine is traditional, some whites can work surprisingly well, especially with lighter accompaniments.

  • Chardonnay: A rich, oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with buttery sauces or creamy sides.
  • Viognier: Its floral notes and stone fruit flavours contrast nicely with the meatiness of the steak.

Beers

A cold beer is always a solid choice for steak, particularly with grilled or barbecued cuts.

  • Stout or Porter: The roasted malt flavours complement the caramelisation on seared steaks.
  • Amber Ale: Its slight sweetness pairs well with smoky or spiced rubs.
  • IPA (India Pale Ale): The bitterness helps cut through fatty, rich flavours, balancing the dish.
  • Lager: A crisp, light option for a refreshing contrast.

Spirits and Cocktails

For something stronger, consider these:

  • Whisky: A smoky single malt or a bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes pairs beautifully with grilled or barbecued steaks.
  • Old Fashioned: The sweetness and bitterness complement rich, savoury steak dishes.
  • Negroni: The herbal and bitter notes of this cocktail offer a refreshing contrast.

Non-Alcoholic Options

For those not drinking alcohol, there are excellent choices to complement featherblade steak.

  • Blackcurrant Cordial or Ribena: The tart fruitiness pairs surprisingly well with beef.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
  • Cold Brew Tea: Black tea with citrus or berry notes works well with grilled or roasted cuts.
  • Ginger Beer: Its spiciness enhances the steak’s richness, especially with a smoky rub.

Pairing by Cooking Style

  • Grilled or Pan-Seared: Opt for bold reds like Malbec or Syrah, or a stout beer.
  • Slow-Cooked or Braised: Rich wines like Zinfandel or full-bodied Porters enhance the dish’s depth.
  • Sous Vide or Delicately Prepared: Chardonnay or Viognier to balance the richness of the meat.