If you’re looking for a lean, mean protein fix, you’ve stumbled upon the goldmine. Ostrich steak might not be your everyday fare, but this bird brings more to the table than just novelty. High in protein and low in fat, cooking ostrich steak can be a delightful endeavor, with flavors so rich you’d swear it was beef. Now, let’s dig into how you can turn this exotic bird into a mouthwatering meal.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Modern International
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

When it comes to ostrich steaks, you want to keep things straightforward but precise. You’ll need:

Cast iron skillet
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ostrich steaks	4 (about 8 oz each)
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Fresh rosemary	1 tbsp, chopped
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Coarse salt	1 tsp
Freshly ground pepper	1 tsp

Did you know? Ostrich meat is one of the healthiest red meats, with fewer calories than turkey or chicken.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Steaks

Pat the ostrich steaks dry with paper towels.
Rub each steak with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the steaks, pressing gently to adhere.

Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.

Step 2 – Heat Your Skillet

Place your cast iron skillet over high heat and let it get screaming hot.
Drizzle a little olive oil into the pan.

Step 3 – Sear the Steaks

Add the steaks to the hot skillet without overcrowding.
Sear each side for 2-3 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preference.

An instant-read thermometer should read 145°F (medium-rare) when inserted into the thickest part of the steak.

Step 4 – Rest the Steaks

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.

Always slice ostrich steaks against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Additional Tips

Overcooking ostrich can make it tough and dry. Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy.
If you’re unsure about the seasoning, keep it simple to let the natural flavors shine.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve ostrich steak with sides that complement its robust flavor. Try these:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed asparagus
A simple arugula salad with vinaigrette

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	150
Protein	22g
Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	0g

This nutrition info is approximate and will vary based on exact portions and side dishes.

Dietary Information

Ostrich steak is perfect for those on a high-protein, low-fat diet. For a paleo-friendly version, use grass-fed butter instead of oil and check all your seasonings for compliance.

FAQs about Ostrich Steak

How do I store leftover ostrich steak?

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I cook ostrich steak from frozen?

For the best results, thaw your steaks in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What’s the best way to tenderize ostrich steak?

Marinating the steak for a few hours can help tenderize the meat, although its natural tenderness doesn’t require much.

Is ostrich steak healthy?

Yes, ostrich steak is very lean and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

How do I know when ostrich steak is cooked?

The best method is using a meat thermometer; cook to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare.

Can ostrich steak replace beef in recipes?

Absolutely, ostrich can be cooked in nearly any recipe that calls for beef.

What are some good spices to pair with ostrich steak?

Rosemary, garlic, and thyme all work well to enhance the rich flavors of ostrich.

Conclusion

Ostrich steak is a tasty, nutritious alternative to traditional red meats. Its unique flavor and health benefits provide an excellent reason to introduce it into your cooking rotation. Try this recipe to impress at your next dinner.