When it comes to classic American steakhouse cuisine, few dishes can rival the allure and elegance of Delmonico’s steak. Named after the famous Delmonico’s restaurant in New York City, this sumptuous steak is renowned for its perfect blend of flavor and tenderness. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of Delmonico’s steak and guide you through a recipe that allows you to recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
The Ingredients
Before we embark on our journey to prepare a mouthwatering Delmonico’s steak, let’s gather the essential ingredients you’ll need:
For the Delmonico’s Steak:
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 12-14 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- A few sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme
For the Delmonico’s Steak Sauce:
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steaks:
Begin by taking the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and allowing them to come to room temperature, which usually takes about 30-45 minutes. This step ensures more even cooking.
2. Season the Steaks:
Season the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
3. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Sear the Steaks:
In an ovenproof skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned steaks.
Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, ensuring they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
5. Add Aromatics:
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pan.
Baste the steaks with the melted butter, garlic, and herbs. This step infuses the steaks with flavor.
6. Transfer to the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the steaks for about 5-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
7. Rest the Steaks:
Remove the steaks from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for a few minutes. Resting helps redistribute the juices and ensures a juicy, flavorful steak.
8. Make the Delmonico’s Steak Sauce:
While the steaks are resting, use the same skillet to prepare the sauce. Over medium heat, add the beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the rested steaks, drizzle them with the luscious Delmonico’s steak sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
The History of Delmonico’s Steak
The name “Delmonico’s” is synonymous with fine dining and culinary excellence. Delmonico’s restaurant, founded by the Delmonico family in New York City in the early 19th century, was a pioneer in American haute cuisine. The Delmonico’s steak, a boneless ribeye cooked to perfection, became a legendary menu item known for its exceptional quality and flavor. It was a testament to the Delmonico family’s commitment to providing top-notch dining experiences to their patrons.
Today, while Delmonico’s restaurant may no longer be in its original form, the legacy of Delmonico’s steak lives on as a symbol of classic American steakhouse dining.
Savoring Delmonico’s Steak at Home
Creating a memorable Delmonico’s steak experience at home allows you to savor the rich history and culinary artistry of this iconic dish. The perfect blend of a beautifully seared, juicy ribeye steak with a velvety, flavorful sauce is sure to delight your taste buds and create a memorable dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a journey to savor the elegance and excellence of Delmonico’s steak right in your own kitchen.