This guide covers all the basics about the strip steak. You’ll learn about the cut’s location on a cow, its alternative names, and the standout characteristics that make it a staple on steakhouse menus and a favorite among steak enthusiasts.
What is a Strip Steak?
The strip steak (new york strip, kansas city strip) is a premium beef cut from the back of the animal (the short loin). It has a great balance of marbling, a bold, beefy flavor, and a tender texture with just the right amount of chew. Depending on the strip steak grade, you can choose a leaner cut or one with more marbling for extra richness. It’s not as tender or fatty as a ribeye, but it’s still a fantastic steak.
I love strip steak because it’s flavorful and simple to prepare – a perfect choice for beginners. Unfortunately, it’s a premium cut, so it usually comes with a higher price tag.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name “new york strip”? The steak got its name from the famous Delmonico Steakhouse in New York City, which played a big role in popularizing it as one of its signature dishes.
What Are the Other names for strip steak?
Here are some of the most popular other names for the strip steak:
- New York Strip
- Kansas City strip steak
- Strip loin steak
- Top loin steak
- Ambassador steak
- Hotel cut steak
- Hotel-style steak
- Club steak
- Boneless club steak
- Veiny steak
- Shell steak
- Delmonico steak
- Strip steak
Please note that “Delmonico steak” and “Club Steak” have been used to refer to various cuts of beef, not specifically the strip steak.
Where Does the Strip Steak Come From on a Cow?
The strip steak comes from the short loin, a section of the cow that doesn’t get much exercise. Because of this, the meat stays tender, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular.
The short loin is part of the larger loin primal, known for some of the most tender cuts of beef, including the famous tenderloin. You can also get a bone-in version of the strip steak, where it’s attached to a smaller portion of the tenderloin. This cut is known as a porterhouse or T-bone steak.
Strip Steak Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition | Portion size: 3 oz = 85 g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 171 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6-8 g |
| Protein | 24.8 g |
| Zinc | 4.65 mg |
| Potassium | 308 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.516 mg |
| Vitamin B-12 | 1.55 µg |
Data source: USDA.
What Does Strip Steak Taste Like?
Strip steak has a strong, beefy taste and a decent tenderness with a satisfying chew. Remember, though, that its taste and texture can change based on the steak’s grade, especially the amount of marbling it has.
Does The Strip Steak Have a Bone?
A strip steak is typically sold as a boneless cut, though a bone-in version is also available. Some people prefer the bone-in cut because it looks attractive on the plate. But no matter which version you choose (bone-in or boneless), please remember that the flavor stays the same.
Is Strip Steak Tender or Tough?
Strip steak is undoubtedly one of the best cuts of beef because it has great flavor, nice marbling, and a tender texture. It is not as tender as a ribeye or filet mignon, but it offers a strong, beefy taste that many people love. Plus, it’s easy to cook, which makes it a popular choice for beginners.
Is Strip Steak Expensive?
Strip steak is pretty reasonably priced – it’s not the cheapest, but it won’t break the bank either. It’s usually less expensive than high-end cuts like filet mignon or ribeye, though the price can vary based on beef grade, the specific cut, and where you buy it. To save some money, consider buying in bulk or looking for deals at your local grocery store or online butcher shop.
What is The Ideal Thickness for a Strip Steak?
The ideal thickness for a strip steak is 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm). This thickness gives you that perfect balance – a beautifully seared, crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and evenly cooked. If the steak is too thick, you might struggle to cook it through without burning the outside, and if it’s too thin (under 1 inch or about 2.5 cm), it could overcook before you even get a chance to develop that delicious crust.
What Are the Best Methods for Cooking Strip Steak?
Here are the best cooking methods for strip steak:
- Pan Searing Only: Pan-searing is a great way to cook a strip steak. It works best for steaks about 1.5 to 2 inches thick (3.8 to 5 cm), giving you a deliciously crispy crust outside while keeping the inside medium-rare. This method is simple enough for beginners and delivers fantastic results every time.
- Grilling: Grilling is another excellent option. For thinner cuts, cook the steak over direct heat. If your strip steak is thicker, start with high heat to develop a nice crust, then finish over indirect heat to ensure even cooking. This technique delivers a delicious charred exterior and a touch of smoky flavor.
- Pan-Searing and Oven Finishing: A good method for thicker strip steak, at least 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) thick, is to start by searing the steak in a hot pan to develop a flavorful crust. Then, transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking slowly until it reaches your desired doneness. This method is especially effective for beginners who want to avoid overcooking.
- Sous Vide: This method gives you a perfectly cooked steak every time. Use a sous vide machine to gently bring the strip steak to your ideal internal temperature, then quickly sear it over high heat to create a tasty crust. It takes longer and requires extra equipment, but the results are consistently amazing.
- Reverse Searing: Another fantastic technique is reverse searing. Start by cooking the strip steak slowly in the oven (or over indirect heat on a grill) until it’s nearly at your desired temperature. Then, give it a quick sear over direct heat to develop that perfect, crispy exterior. This method gives you excellent control over the cooking process and is beginner-friendly.
Strip steak is incredibly versatile and easy to cook. I often sear it in a hot skillet or fire it up on the grill, but it also works excellent when cooked sous-vide. Strip steak always delivers a tasty meal, whether you’re after a quick, high-heat sear or a slow, reverse-seared finish in the oven or on the grill.
Which is Better: Strip Steak or Ribeye?
Which one is better depends on what you enjoy. If you lean toward a leaner steak with a bit less tender texture, a strip steak might be the one for you. But if you’re after a rich, tender bite with plenty of marbling and juicy flavor, the ribeye could be your favorite. It all comes down to your taste and what you’re in the mood for.
Check out my guide on New York Strip vs. Ribeye for more details.
Great information, straight forward and right to the bone. Thanks