It’s always steak season, but with rising prices, the top sirloin cuts can’t always be the stars at the dinner table. Fortunately, the bottom sirloin cuts pack as much flavor for a fraction of the price. What’s the catch you ask? Some say that a sizzler steak is too tough, but that isn’t always a downside. Here’s why you should give the sizzler steak a shot.
What is a Sizzler Steak?
The sizzler steak, also known as the petite sirloin, is a cut of meat from the sirloin primal of a cow. This piece is cut from the small rounded part of the bottom sirloin near the rump area of the cow. If you're not sure what that is, you can familiarize yourself using our complete guide to all of the beef cuts.
Due to the excessive movement of muscles in this area throughout the cow’s lifetime, the sizzler is a lot tougher than the more popular sirloin cuts. For this reason, it doesn’t get prime attention; however, its chewy texture does not take away from the flavor profile of this cut of meat.
Sizzler steaks often come thinly sliced and need a lot of care and preparation to avoid drying out during the cooking process.
How to Tenderize the Sizzler Steak
Tough and chewy steak is an unwelcome guest at any table. However, for the luxury of enjoying an affordable cut of meat, you have to get creative in the kitchen. So what do you do when you have a tough cut of meat and a meal to prepare?
Salting
Salting is an inexpensive way to turn a tough cut of meat into an affordable melt-in-your-mouth texture. This form of dry brining draws the moisture out of the meat. The moisture then dissolves in the salt and is reabsorbed into the meat, breaking down the protein. This technique makes the meat softer and easier on the mouth. Here is how to go about it;
- Cut your meat into 1-1 1/2 inch thickness.
- Sprinkle about a teaspoon of salt on each side and coat properly.
- Leave your meat to sit for at least two hours.
- Rinse and dry your meat.
- Add steaks seasoning, such as this one.
- Prepare on the grill.
Marinating
Marinating your meat is always a good idea to pack in as much flavor as possible, but did you know it also comes with the benefit of tender meat? Using a marinade with strong and acidic content such as lime, vinegar, and alcohol will make your meat much softer (try italian dressing).
The enzymes in the acids help weaken the muscles on the surface while the liquid marinade introduces more moisture into the meat preventing it from drying out when cooked. Furthermore, it will add a welcome tang to your dish!
How to Cook a Sizzler Steak
With the tenderizing phase of the preparation done, there are many ways to enjoy a sizzler steak. Here are some of the most popular cooking methods:
Grilling Sizzler Steak
Grilling is perhaps one of the most popular methods to prepare a sizzler steak, and rightfully so. It guarantees a good brown exterior and juicy interior. That’s why we always recommend putting in the extra effort to get your sizzler steak ready for grilling as it’s worth it.
To grill your steak:
- Remove meat from the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature.
- Preheat grill.
- Wipe off the excess marinade so as not to affect the temperature.
- Place your meat on the grill and cook on direct heat until it browns.
- Flip to allow the other side to cook and press down on the meat.
- Check the internal temperature and remove it from the heat when satisfied.
- Add butter to the meat and wrap in tin foil for 5-10 minutes.
- Slice the meat against the grain.
Feel free to include a wood chopping board on your dinner table to add that wow factor. See our guide on the best type of wood for chopping boards if you aren't sure how to choose! For a sizzler steak, we recommend the medium walnut wood cutting board.
Broiling Sizzler Steak
This is a very hands-off way of preparing your meat after a long day at work. If you’re big on prepping your meal then all you have to do is pull out your marinating meat and whip up a quick meal without breaking a sweat.
To broil your sizzler steak:
- Take the meat from the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature.
- Set your oven to broil.
- Oil your broiling pan.
- Dry off excess marinade and place steak in the pan.
- Place pan 3-4 inches from the heat source.
- Let it broil for 5 minutes and turn to allow the other side to cook.
- Use a thermometer to determine doneness and remove from oven once satisfied.
- Allow your steak to rest before cutting into it.
Final Thoughts
The sizzler steak may not be the easiest steak to deal with, but the flavor is rewarding every time. It’s the perfect steak to bring out and is forgiving to beginner cooks. If you’re hesitant to try this steak, this is your green light. As long as you follow our tenderizing tricks, you can't go wrong! Enjoy your steak!
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