Steak Night at Home: How to Create a Restaurant Quality Experience

The perfectly cooked steak. Not always easy to achieve, but well worth the work required. The secret to a restaurant-quality steak made in your own kitchen lies in three simple things: exceptional meat, simple techniques, and the perfect pairings.

At Donald Russell, our grass-fed, dry-aged beef is hand-selected by butchers in Aberdeenshire, ensuring every cut delivers unforgettable flavour. With a little planning and the right approach, you can enjoy restaurant-level results from home.

Choosing the Right Steak Cut

Not all steaks are created equal. The right cut means the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable one. Here’s how to pick your steak like an expert:

• Fillet: The most tender of all, with a fine texture and very little fat. Our Centre Cut Fillet Steaks are cut from premium grass-fed British beef, matured for at least 28 days for a richer flavour and buttery texture.

• Ribeye: Richly marbled, with a generous layer of fat. Expect full flavour and melt-in-the-mouth texture when you select our 35 day traditionally matured Ribeye Steak, ideal for those who enjoy a more indulgent cut.

• Sirloin: A classic choice, known for its balance of flavour and tenderness, it's a leaner cut with a good amount of marbling, a popular choice due to the perfect balance of tenderness and robust beefy flavour. Our Sirloin Steaks, traditionally matured for at least 28 days, are expertly prepared to the same high standards we uphold for our top restaurant clients.
• Tomahawk: With a truly striking appearance, this steak is named after the Tomahawk axe it resembles. With a large rib steak and a long, expertly French-trimmed bone, it's guaranteed to make an impression with your guests! Shop our Tomahawk Steak 28 Day Dry Aged at Donald Russell.

Look for well-marbled meat and traditional maturation when selecting a steak. At Donald Russell, our grass-fed, Aberdeenshire steaks are dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days to deepen their flavour and enhance tenderness.

How to Cook Steak to Perfection

Cooking a steak can seem daunting, but if you follow our simple instructions, it’s really very simple:

1. Bring up to room temperature by removing the steak from the fridge, usually at least 20 to 30 minutes before you’re ready to start cooking - but be sure to check cooking instructions on the packaging, as these will vary depending on the size, cut, and age of the steak.
2. Season liberally. A little coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper go a long way.
3. Preheat your pan until it’s very hot, then add a drop of oil just before you’re ready to start cooking your steak.
4. Sear for a few minutes each side, depending on your preferred doneness, which will vary dependent on the cut of steak. Be sure to check cooking instructions for your particular steak.
5. Once cooked, cover with foil and leave to rest in a warm place.

A high-quality cast iron pan works best for a rich sear. Alternatively, you can finish thicker steaks in the oven or on the barbecue for added depth of flavour.

The Perfect Pairings for Your Steak

A truly memorable steak night is, of course, not just about the steak. Much like you’d enjoy a steak at a restaurant with sides and a drink to complement, you can take your steak night at home from great to excellent with the perfect wine pairing.

An Easy Guide to Wine Pairings

Fillet Steak

Pinot Noir - Light enough not to overpower delicate meat

Ribeye Steak

Cabernet Sauvignon - Bold tannins cut through the richness

Tomahawk Steak

Malbec - Fruity depth complements this hearty steak

Side Dishes to Compliment Your Steak Night

A great steak deserves equally impressive sides, and there’s no shortage of great options, pre-prepared by our team or made yourself.

• Creamy Dauphinoise Potatoes for the ultimate velvety richness, enjoy these thinly sliced potatoes baked in garlic-infused cream.
• Add Alpine Fries, a temptingly crispy alternative to typical fries. We use premium-quality potatoes and season them with nothing more than a sprinkle of salt for the perfect balance of flavours
• Macaroni Cheese with Vintage Cheddar. This side is decadent enough for a special occasion, adding a sharp cheddar bite.

The Final Touch: Steak Sauce

A great steak doesn’t need much, but a well-made sauce can elevate the experience. Try a green peppercorn sauce, a béarnaise, or a tarragon and black pepper butter to melt over the top.

If you want to take away the hassle of making a sauce from scratch, you can order our Creamy Peppercorn Sauce to enjoy with your steak dinner.

Making the Most of Your Steak Night

A proper steak night means making the most of it. Set the table with care, pour a glass of something you enjoy, and take your time. Good food is worth slowing down for.

With the right cut and a little care, even a quiet night in can feel like a special occasion.

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