Japanese Wagyu Steak Recipe

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Best Way to Cook Japanese Wagyu at Home

Japanese wagyu steak is probably the most delicious beef steak recipe you have ever cooked!

➡️ I’m a huge fan of wagyu steak. I can’t afford it often, since it’s very expensive, but for special occasions, I still buy a couple of wagyu beef steaks and grill them on the coal barbecue or fry them in the pan, depending on how the weather and the season.

➡️ For those unfamiliar with the term wagyu, this is a Japanese breed of beef cattle that is prized for its tender, juicier meat. Steaks made from wagyu are also called Japanese beef steaks or Japanese beef striploin. You may have heard that Wagyu beef steak is considered the best beef steak in the world. That’s right, and not without scientific motivation.

➡️ A beef steak is all the better as it is more tender and juicy, and these two elements are due to the fat in the meat. The fatter the meat, the juicier the steak will be because the fat melts during frying and breaks down the tender muscle fibers. And wagyu has a lot of fat, so much so that the meat is marbled!

➡️ Wagyu beef is renowned for its exceptional quality and flavor, and Japanese Wagyu beef steak is the epitome of this highly sought-after meat. This luxurious beef has become a status symbol and is highly regarded among food connoisseurs around the world. Japanese Wagyu beef is highly prized for its intense marbling, which gives it a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, buttery flavor that is unmatched by any other beef.

When it comes to cooking Japanese wagyu steak, it is important to keep in mind that this meat is different from other types of beef. The high fat content means that it cooks faster than other cuts of beef, and it requires a delicate touch to prevent it from becoming overcooked or tough. Nevertheless, with the right techniques and a little bit of practice, anyone can cook a delicious and succulent Japanese wagyu beef steak at home.

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Best Way to Cook Japanese Wagyu Steak at Home

Japanese Wagyu steak is one of the most premium and highly regarded cuts of beef in the world. The term "Wagyu" refers to four different breeds of cattle native to Japan, which are known for their high levels of intramuscular fat, also known as marbling. This unique marbling gives the meat a tender texture and a rich, buttery flavor that is unmatched by other beef cuts.

Wagyu beef is not only prized for its delicious taste and texture but also for the level of care that goes into producing it. The cattle are raised with great attention to detail, including a specialized diet and regular massages to ensure that the meat remains tender and flavorful.

While Japanese Wagyu steak can be quite expensive, it is definitely worth the investment for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. The rich, buttery flavor and tender texture of the meat make it a standout dish that is sure to impress your guests. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can create a Japanese Wagyu steak that is on par with the best steak restaurants in the world.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories

Ingredients

2 Japanese Wagyu steaks (8-10 oz each)
salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 sprigs of thyme
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add the vegetable oil.
Sear the steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steaks and sear the edges as well.
Add the minced garlic, thyme, and butter to the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the steaks for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare or 7-10 minutes for medium.
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Cooking Tips:

Make sure the steaks are at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels before seasoning them to prevent excess moisture from interfering with the searing process.
Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and even cooking.
Baste the steaks with melted butter, garlic, and thyme to add extra flavor and moisture.
Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy steak.

Keyword beef steak, japanese wagyu steak, wagyu steak

Cooking Wagyu Steak Is Real Gourmet Cooking!

➡️ As I mentioned, I have two favorite ways to cook Wagyu steak: one is on the coal grill, and the second is by searing it in the pan. Because it is made from the best quality red meat, Wagyu beef steak offers a much better flavor than traditional beef. This will result in a tender steak and provide you with maximum flavor for your money (which, by the way, are not a few in the case of Wagyu steak!)

➡️ This summer, cooking your beef steak in a Japanese style is the best way to bring out its, well, best qualities. This Japanese beef is known for its long, lean and tender meat. It’s also known for its incredibly high quality, so you’ll be guaranteed the best-tasting steak ever. Besides, how could you go wrong with a steak recipe that calls for grilling?

➡️ The traditional Japanese wagyu beef recipe is the most well-known international method of cooking beef and producing a meltingly tender result. This dish has become popular because the beef turns out extraordinarily tender. Wagyu steak is different from a thick, marbly ribeye because it cooks quickly and evenly. If you want intense umami flavors, you need to get a caramelized crust. Therefore, I recommend you cook the steak for three minutes on the first side, flip it, and then cook it for two minutes on the other side.

➡️ The highest-quality wagyu beef is best with just a bit of salt and pepper, but if you want to use a steak seasoning, go ahead. Just be sure not to overwhelm the inherent flavor that wagyu delivers on its own without sauces, marinades, and seasonings. If you need additional info about cooking beef of this type, read more about wagyu!

➡️ I recommend you to try more tasty beef steak recipes available on this website such as New York strip steak on the stove.

FAQs about Wagyu Steak

What is Wagyu steak?

Wagyu steak refers to a type of beef that comes from a specific breed of Japanese cattle called Wagyu. It is renowned for its high marbling content, which gives the meat a rich, buttery texture and exceptional flavor.

What makes Wagyu steak special?

Wagyu steak stands out for its exceptional tenderness and succulence due to the marbling of fat throughout the meat. The intramuscular fat, also known as “shimofuri,” melts during cooking, resulting in a unique and indulgent dining experience.

How is Wagyu steak different from regular steak?

Wagyu steak is distinct from regular steak due to its high marbling content, which sets it apart in terms of tenderness and flavor. The intense marbling gives this steak a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is unparalleled.

Where does Wagyu steak come from?

Authentic Wagyu steak originates from Japan, where it is primarily produced. However, there are also Wagyu cattle raised in other countries, such as the United States, Australia, and some regions of Europe.

Are there different types of Wagyu steak?

Yes, there are different types of Wagyu steak based on the specific breed of Wagyu cattle. The most famous ones include Kobe beef, Matsusaka beef, and Omi beef, each having its own distinct characteristics and regional origins.

How should I cook Wagyu steak?

Wagyu steak is best cooked using methods that preserve its tenderness and marbling. It is often recommended to cook this steak on high heat for a short duration to sear the outside while keeping the center tender and juicy. It’s crucial to avoid overcooking to maintain its unique qualities.

Can Wagyu steak be cooked to different levels of doneness?

Yes, Wagyu steak can be cooked to various levels of doneness, ranging from rare to well done. However, it is generally recommended to cook it to no more than medium-rare to fully appreciate its tenderness and flavor.

How should I season Wagyu steak?

Wagyu steak is naturally flavorful and doesn’t require excessive seasoning. A sprinkle of salt and pepper is often sufficient to enhance its taste. Some people also enjoy adding complementary flavors like garlic, herbs, or a light soy-based marinade.

Where can I buy Wagyu steak?

Wagyu steak can be found at specialty butcher shops, high-end restaurants, or online retailers specializing in gourmet meats. It’s essential to ensure the quality and authenticity of this steak before purchasing.

Is Wagyu steak expensive?

Yes, Wagyu steak tends to be more expensive compared to regular steak due to the cost of raising and producing Wagyu cattle, as well as its high demand and limited availability. The unique qualities and exceptional dining experience associated with Wagyu contribute to its higher price point.