Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a traditional Tuscan dish that showcases the simplicity and bold flavor of a perfectly grilled T-bone steak. This classic Italian recipe uses high-quality beef, typically from the Chianina breed, and focuses on highlighting the natural flavor of the meat with minimal seasoning. The steak is seasoned with salt, grilled over high heat to develop a beautiful char, and served rare to medium-rare to preserve its juiciness and tenderness. With its smoky, rich flavor, Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a celebration of great beef, perfect for a special occasion or a hearty family meal, often enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 lb T-bone or porterhouse steak (about 2-3 inches thick)
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 1 hour before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to high heat, ensuring it’s very hot to create a good sear on the meat.
- Season the Steak:
- Just before grilling, generously season both sides of the steak with coarse sea salt and black pepper.
- Grill the Steak:
- Place the steak on the hottest part of the grill. Grill for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 5-6 minutes. For a rare to medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 120°F-125°F (49°C-52°C). Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your steak more done.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once grilled, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina is the epitome of Italian simplicity—an exquisite cut of beef, expertly grilled, and served with just a few quality ingredients. This Tuscan-style steak is best enjoyed with a glass of red wine and a side of roasted vegetables or salad for a truly authentic Italian meal.
