Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a delicious Tuscan grilled steak that's easy to prepare. Originating from Florence, it uses a hearty Chianina beef cut. You'll season it simply with kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary. What's more satisfying than grilling it over a wood fire? It creates a lovely char while keeping the meat juicy! After grilling for about 5-10 minutes per side, let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is key to locking in those tasty juices. Interested in impressing your friends at your next BBQ? You've got to try this authentic dish! ��️

History

Bistecca alla Fiorentina has its roots deep in the heart of Florence, Tuscany, dating back to the 16th century. This iconic dish showcases the region's rich culinary history and embodies the essence of flavorful BBQ through its grilling techniques.

Have you ever tasted the incredible Chianina beef? It's known for its large size and high-quality meat, making every bite tender and flavorful.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just salt, olive oil, and a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary, it highlights the Tuscan way of using fresh ingredients.

Traditionally served during special occasions, Bistecca alla Fiorentina brings people together, creating a communal experience.

Often cooked over a wood fire, this method connects generations and preserves the authentic flavors of Tuscany.

Isn't that a wonderful way to celebrate food?

Recipe

Bistecca Alla Fiorentina

Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a classic Tuscan dish that celebrates the simplicity and quality of ingredients, particularly the exquisite flavor of the porterhouse steak. Traditionally, this dish is prepared with a thick cut of meat, ideally sourced from the Chianina breed of cattle, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.

The key to this dish lies not only in the quality of the steak but also in the grilling technique, which imparts a beautiful char while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Using a George Foreman grill can make the grilling process more convenient, especially for those who prefer indoor cooking without compromising on flavor.

To start, it's vital to season the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Marinating the steak with fresh herbs like rosemary and sage, along with a brush of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, enhances the flavors and adds an aromatic touch.

The grilling process requires a hot outdoor grill with hardwood charcoal, which helps achieve that perfect crust. The resting period after grilling is just as significant, allowing the juices to redistribute for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 2½ to 3-pound bone-in porterhouse steak
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh rosemary
• Fresh sage
• High-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon wedges (optional)
• Sea salt (optional)

To prepare the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, start by seasoning the porterhouse steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Marinate the steak for at least an hour with a mixture of fresh rosemary and sage, brushed lightly with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Preheat your outdoor grill using hardwood charcoal until it's glowing and ready. Grill the steak for approximately 5-10 minutes on each side, aiming for a rare or medium-rare doneness. After grilling, allow the steak to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it into portions, making sure to serve it with the bone for a traditional presentation on the platter.

For the best results when cooking Bistecca alla Fiorentina, choose a steak that's at least 2 inches thick to guarantee a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Confirm your grill is adequately heated before placing the steak on it, as this will help achieve a beautiful crust.

Experiment with the resting time—while 10 minutes is standard, you can adjust it based on the thickness of your steak. Finally, serving with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the dish, adding a revitalizing acidity that complements the rich flavors of the meat.

Final Thoughts

How can a dish so simple create such a memorable dining experience? Bistecca alla Fiorentina, with its rich flavors and rustic charm, does just that.

To truly enjoy this grilled Tuscan steak, remember these key points:

1. Use a bone-in porterhouse steak—about 2.5 to 3 pounds. For the best grilling experience, consider using a reliable charcoal smoker like the Realcook Vertical Steel Charcoal Smoker, which provides excellent heat retention and stability.
2. Grill it over a hot fire to get that perfect crust while keeping the internal temperature around 120-125°F.
3. Don't forget to let them rest for 10 minutes after grilling to lock in juices.
4. Focus on presentation—fan the sliced steak around the bone and garnish with lemon and sea salt.

With just extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs, you can create a delicious feast that's sure to impress!