Teres major steak is a hidden gem in the world of beef. If you love steak but want something affordable yet delicious, this cut is for you. Often called the “poor man’s tenderloin,” major steak is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s much cheaper than fancy cuts like ribeye or filet mignon. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about major steak, from what it is to how to cook it perfectly. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll find simple tips, recipes, real-life examples, and more. Let’s dive in!
Contents
What Is Teres Major Steak?
First, let’s talk about what major steak is. The teres major is a small muscle found in the shoulder of the cow. It’s close to the chuck (shoulder) area but isn’t used much by the animal. Because of this, it stays tender, much like the filet mignon. However, it’s less expensive because it’s not as well-known and requires skilled butchering to remove.
For example, when you go to a butcher shop, you might not see teres major steak displayed often. It’s a specialty cut that butchers sometimes save for restaurants or knowledgeable customers. But don’t worry—if you ask for it, most butchers can prepare it for you. Alternatively, you can find it online at places like Snake River Farms or Porter Road.
In short, major steak is a budget-friendly, tender cut that’s perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or roasting. Now, let’s explore why it’s so special.
Why Choose Teres Major Steak?
So, why should you pick major steak over other cuts? Here are some reasons:
- Affordable Price: Teres major steak costs less than premium cuts like tenderloin or ribeye. For instance, while a filet mignon might cost $20 per pound, teres major is often under $10 per pound.
- Tender Texture: Because the muscle doesn’t get much exercise, it’s naturally soft and easy to chew.
- Rich Flavor: It has a beefy taste that’s stronger than tenderloin but not as intense as flank steak.
- Versatile Cooking: You can grill, sear, or roast it. Plus, it pairs well with many marinades and seasonings.
For example, imagine hosting a barbecue but wanting to save money. Instead of buying expensive ribeyes, you choose teres major steak. Your guests love the juicy, flavorful meat, and you’ve saved enough to buy extra sides or desserts. It’s a win-win!
How to Buy Teres Major Steak
Before you cook major steak, you need to buy it. Here’s how to find and choose the best one:
- Ask Your Butcher: Not all grocery stores carry major steak, so visit a local butcher. Tell them you want the “teres major” or “shoulder tender.” They’ll know what you mean.
- Shop Online: If you can’t find it locally, try online retailers like Crowd Cow or ButcherBox. These sites deliver high-quality beef to your door.
- Check the Quality: Look for bright red meat with some marbling (small streaks of fat). Marbling adds flavor and keeps the steak juicy.
- Portion Size: Teres major steaks are small, usually 6-10 ounces each. Plan for one steak per person.
For instance, last summer, I visited a butcher shop in my town. I asked for major steak, and the butcher was excited to share this “secret” cut with me. He trimmed it perfectly, and it cost just $8 per pound—half the price of ribeye!
How to Cook Teres Major Steak
Now, let’s get to the fun part: cooking major steak! Because it’s tender, it doesn’t need long cooking times or complicated methods. Here are three easy ways to prepare it:
- Grilled Teres Major Steak
Grilling gives teres major steak a smoky, charred flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Ingredients: Teres major steak, salt, pepper, olive oil.
- Steps:
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
- Rub it with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper.
- Preheat your grill to high heat (about 450°F).
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internal temperature).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. I recommend the ThermoWorks Thermapen for accurate readings.
For example, my friend Sarah tried grilling teres major steak for her family. She was nervous about overcooking it, but by using a thermometer, she got perfect medium-rare steaks. Her kids loved the smoky taste!
- Pan-Seared Teres Major Steak
Pan-searing is great for a crispy crust. Plus, it’s quick and works well indoors.
- Ingredients: Teres major steak, salt, pepper, butter, garlic, thyme.
- Steps:
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil.
- Sear the steak for 3 minutes per side.
- Add butter, garlic, and thyme to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steak for 1 minute.
- Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Tip: Slice against the grain (the lines in the meat) for maximum tenderness.
- Oven-Roasted Teres Major Steak
Roasting is ideal for larger cuts or when you want a hands-off method.
- Ingredients: Teres major steak, salt, pepper, rosemary, olive oil.
- Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
For instance, my neighbor Tom roasted teres major steak for a dinner party. He paired it with mashed potatoes and a red wine sauce. His guests thought it was a fancy restaurant dish!
Marinades and Seasonings for Teres Major Steak
Because teres major steak has a mild flavor, it loves marinades and seasonings. Here are some easy ideas:
- Chimichurri: A mix of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. It’s fresh and tangy.
- Soy-Ginger Marinade: Combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey for an Asian-inspired taste.
- Simple Salt and Pepper: Sometimes, less is more. A good sprinkle of salt and pepper highlights the beef’s natural flavor.
- Gochujang Marinade: For a spicy kick, try this Korean chili paste marinade, like in this X post.
For example, I once marinated teres major steak in chimichurri for a summer cookout. The bright, herby sauce made the steak taste amazing, and everyone asked for the recipe!
Case Study: A Restaurant’s Success with Teres Major Steak
Let’s look at a real-life example of how teres major steak can shine. In 2023, a small restaurant in Austin, Texas, called “The Beef Barn” added teres major steak to their menu. They marketed it as a “budget-friendly filet mignon” and priced it at $15 per plate, compared to $30 for their ribeye.
The result? Customers loved it! The tender texture and rich flavor made it their top-selling dish within three months. The restaurant saved money by using a cheaper cut, and diners felt they got a high-end meal for less. They even shared photos on social media, boosting the restaurant’s popularity. This shows how teres major steak can be a game-changer for both home cooks and businesses.
Chart: Teres Major Steak vs. Other Cuts
Here’s a simple table comparing teres major steak to other popular cuts:
|
Cut |
Price per Pound |
Tenderness |
Flavor |
Best Cooking Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Teres Major Steak |
$8-12 |
Very Tender |
Beefy |
Grill, Sear, Roast |
|
Filet Mignon |
$20-30 |
Extremely Tender |
Mild |
Sear, Roast |
|
Ribeye |
$15-25 |
Tender |
Rich |
Grill, Sear |
|
Flank Steak |
$8-10 |
Less Tender |
Strong |
Grill, Broil |
This chart shows that teres major steak offers a great balance of tenderness, flavor, and price. For instance, it’s almost as tender as filet mignon but costs much less.
Tips for Perfect Teres Major Steak Every Time
To make sure your teres major steak turns out amazing, follow these tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Because it’s lean, teres major steak can dry out if cooked past medium (140°F).
- Rest the Meat: Always let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside.
- Use a Hot Surface: Whether grilling or searing, high heat creates a tasty crust.
- Season Early: Salt the steak 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
For example, I once forgot to rest my teres major steak after grilling. When I cut it, the juices ran out, and it wasn’t as tender. Now, I always wait a few minutes, and it’s perfect every time!
Side Dishes to Pair with Teres Major Steak
A great steak needs great sides. Here are some easy ideas to serve with teres major steak:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they soak up the steak’s juices.
- Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and crunch.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing complements the beef’s richness.
- Smoked Carrot Purée: For a fancy touch, try this side from the X post.
For instance, last weekend, I served teres major steak with garlic mashed potatoes and a simple salad. My family said it was better than a restaurant meal!
FAQs
Before we wrap up, let’s answer some common questions about teres major steak:
- What’s the difference between major steak and filet mignon?
Major steak is from the shoulder, while filet mignon is from the loin. Both are tender, but teres major is cheaper and has a stronger beefy flavor. - Can I cook major steak in a slow cooker?
It’s not ideal because it’s so tender. Slow cooking is better for tougher cuts like chuck roast. Stick to grilling, searing, or roasting. - Where can I buy major steak?
Check with local butchers or online retailers like Crowd Cow or Porter Road. Grocery stores may not carry it. - How do I know when major steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium. Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting. - Can I freeze major steak?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a freezer bag. It stays good for up to 6 months.
Conclusion
Teres major steak is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves tender, flavorful beef without spending a fortune. Whether you grill, sear, or roast it, this cut is easy to cook and impresses every time. Plus, with marinades, seasonings, and tasty sides, you can make it your own. For example, try the chimichurri marinade or pair it with smoked carrot purée for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
So, next time you’re at the butcher shop or shopping online, ask for major steak. You’ll save money and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals pricier cuts. Happy cooking!
