Spencer steak, also known as a ribeye cap steak or a ribeye cap off, is a delicious cut of beef that comes from the rib section of a cow. This particular cut is highly prized for its tender and juicy texture, as well as its rich flavor that comes from the marbling of fat within the meat.
The Spencer steak is cut from the outer perimeter of the ribeye and is sometimes referred to as the “butchers cut” because it was once a well-kept secret among butchers who would keep this cut for themselves.
Interestingly, this steak is also known by different names in different regions. For instance, in the Midwest, its called the “beef ribeye cap,” while in Australia, its known as the “scotch fillet.” If youre a steak lover, then keep reading to find out more about this mouth-watering cut of beef!
Plain and simple: Spencer steak is a West coast term for boneless rib-eye steak. The other names it goes by are Delmonico, beauty steak, market steak and Scotch fillet. Spencer steak (or boneless rib-eye steak) is cut from a prime rib.
How to Cook a Spencer Steak
Now for the best part, cooking a Spencer Steak! Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, lets go over the materials needed:
- A Spencer Steak, at least 1.5 inches thick
- Salt and pepper (preferably kosher salt and freshly ground pepper)
- Olive oil
- Cast iron pan or heavy skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Wooden Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Prepare the steak (24 hours before cooking): Start by taking your Spencer Steak and pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help to create a nice crust when cooking. Sprinkle a generous amount of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper evenly over both sides of the steak. Place the steak on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet and refrigerate, uncovered, for 24 hours. This will not only help to season the steak throughout the meat but also ensure a more even cooking.
- Let the steak rest (1-2 hours before cooking):About 1-2 hours before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This is a crucial step, as it will allow for a more even cooking and help you achieve your desired doneness.
- Preheat the oven: While the steak is coming to room temperature, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high temperature will help to create a beautiful crust on your steak.
- Prepare the cast iron pan:Place your cast iron pan or heavy skillet in the oven for about 10 minutes to heat it up. The hot pan will ensure a perfect sear on the steak.
- Cook the steak: Once the steak has come to room temperature and your pan is heated, its time to cook the steak. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan, just enough to coat the bottom. Carefully place the steak in the skillet using tongs. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the steak makes contact with the hot pan. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until a nice crust has formed. Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until you achieve the desired crust.
- Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the steak, aiming for 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare or 140 degrees F for medium.
- Let the steak rest: Once the steak has reached your desired temperature, remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board. This is the perfect time to let the steak rest. Resting is essential, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender bite. Let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes.
- Slice and serve: After letting the steak rest, use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will make for a more tender and enjoyable eating experience. Finally, all thats left to do is dig in and savor the delicious Spencer Steak youve just cooked!
Remember, practice makes perfect, so dont be afraid to cook Spencer Steaks regularly to master your technique. Enjoying a perfectly cooked Spencer Steak is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this beautiful cut of meat. With these detailed instructions and the essential need-to-know tips, youll be well on your way to becoming a steak-cooking expert.
- The thickness of your Spencer Steak will affect the cooking time. The thicker the steak, the longer it will take to cook. Make sure to adjust your cooking time as needed based on the thickness of your steak.
- To achieve an even crust, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If youre cooking multiple steaks, use a larger skillet or cook them in batches to ensure each steak has plenty of space.
- When searing the steak, pay attention to the amount of fat on the first side. A good sear can help to render the fat and add flavor to the finished dish.
- If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can cook it to a higher internal temperature, but be aware that the texture may become tougher as you cook it longer.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak, as this will give you the most accurate indication of its doneness.
- Spencer Steak is a type of bone-in steak that requires some skill to cook perfectly. If youre new to cooking this cut, consider seeking guidance from a professional chef or knowledgeable friend.
- When cooking steak in the oven, use a sheet pan with a wire rack to keep the steak elevated. This helps to ensure an even cooking temperature and prevents the steak from sitting in its own juices.
- Spencer Steak is a popular choice on the west coast, and its unique flavor and tenderness make it a prized cut. Choose a high-quality, bone-in Spencer Steak to ensure the best results.
- To draw the moisture out of the steak and get a perfect crust, salt the steak generously before cooking. This is a need-to-know tip for any aspiring steak chef.
- Finish cooking the steak with a small amount of butter or aromatic herbs to add an extra layer of flavor and richness.
How to Buy Spencer Steak
When it comes to purchasing a Spencer Steak, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure you get the best quality meat for your meal. Heres a comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice:
- Source: Look for a reputable butcher, grocery store, or online retailer that offers high-quality, ethically raised beef. Spencer Steak is a premium cut, so its essential to choose a provider that can deliver the best quality possible.
- Freshness: Check the date of packaging or ask the butcher when the meat was cut. Fresh Spencer Steak should have a bright, cherry-red color and should be free of any unpleasant odors.
- Marbling: Look for a steak with good marbling, which is the distribution of fat throughout the meat. Marbling is key to the flavor and tenderness of the steak. Ideally, choose a Spencer Steak with a USDA Prime or Choice grade, as these will have the best marbling.
- Thickness: As mentioned earlier, the thickness of your Spencer Steak affects the cooking time and the final result. Aim for a steak thats at least 1.5 inches thick, which will help ensure even cooking and a juicy, tender result.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Spencer Steak is typically sold as a bone-in cut, which contributes to the flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. Opt for a bone-in Spencer Steak whenever possible.
This Secret Butcher’s Cut Is Like a Ribeye But CHEAPER!
FAQ
What is Spencer roll beef?
What is the poor man’s steak cut?
How to grill a Spencer steak?
What is another name for New York strip steak?
Is a Spencer steak a good cut of meat?
Yes, a Spencer steak is a very good cut of meat. A boneless rib-eye steak is a type of prime rib. Because of the location of the prime rib, it is essentially the “eye” of meat in the center. It is tender, juicy, and marble with plenty of fat. Because there is a lot of fat around the muscle tissue, it is incredibly juicy and tender.
Skirt steak vs Flank steak: Which is healthier?
Both the steak variants have similar amount of energy and proteins as both are cut from a similar animal. Moreover, skirt steak is cut from the lower portion of the animal, just behind the fore limbs. Flank steak is also cut from the lower part but behind the skirt steak or before the hind limbs. Both the meat variants have characteristic flavor but are not very tender. Thus, they can be used for grilling, roasting, sautéing or broiling. However, the steak should not be cut thickly or over cooked to avoid toughness and dryness.
What is a Spencer steak?
Spencer steak is a boneless ribeye steak. Different regions in the United States have different names for the same things, and this cut of steak is one of them. What is a Spencer Steak, AKA Rib-Eye Steak? A Spencer Steak is simply a boneless ribeye steak. It is a juicy, tender, and flavourful cut marbled with just the right amount of fat.
What does Spencer steak taste like?
The Spencer steak is renowned for its rich, beefy flavor and smooth texture. It’s one of the richest cuts available, offering a distinctive beef taste that’s a real treat for the palate. Despite its robust flavor, the meat is tender and can be easily cut if prepared correctly.