Rump Steak
Bold Flavor, Perfect Tenderness
Ingredients
- 2 rump steaks (about 200-250g each)
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme, if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preparation:
- Remove the rump steaks from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice crust when searing.
- Season both sides of the steaks generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it is very hot. You should see a slight wisp of smoke coming from the pan.
- Cooking the Steak:
- Add the olive oil to the hot pan, swirling to coat.
- Carefully place the steaks in the pan. They should sizzle immediately upon contact.
- Cook the steaks for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time depending on your desired level of doneness (3-4 minutes per side for medium, 4-5 minutes per side for well-done).
- Do not move the steaks around too much. Let them sear properly to develop a nice crust.
- Add Aromatics:
- In the last minute of cooking, add the crushed garlic cloves and rosemary (or thyme) to the pan.
- Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter and the aromatic flavors.
- Resting:
- Remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a plate. Tent with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Serving:
- Slice the steaks against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve immediately, optionally with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy contrast.
Tips:
- Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear the steaks properly, creating a flavorful crust.
- Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial for juicy, tender meat.
- Feel free to add other herbs or spices to your taste.