RestaurantsTale of the WhaleRibeye Recipe

Ribeye Recipe

Inspired by Tale of the Whale
Time1h 5m
Serves1

** 14 oz.

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Ingredients

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Steak

Finishing butter & aromatics

Optional garnish

Method

Steak preparation

1

Bring to room temperature

Remove the 14 oz ribeye from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels. Let sit, uncovered, on the counter for 30–45 minutes so it comes close to room temperature (this promotes even cooking).

2

Season

Just before cooking, season both sides generously with the 1.5 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Press the seasoning lightly into the meat so it adheres.

Cooking

3

Preheat pan

Place a heavy skillet (cast iron recommended) over high heat and warm for 5 minutes until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.

4

Sear first side

Carefully lay the ribeye into the hot pan away from you. Sear undisturbed for 2.5–3 minutes to develop a deep brown crust. If the steak is thicker than 1.25–1.5 inches, aim for the longer end; adjust slightly for thickness.

5

Sear second side

Flip the steak using tongs. Sear the second side for 2–3 minutes to form a crust.

6

Add butter and aromatics

Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, the smashed garlic cloves, 2 thyme sprigs and 1 rosemary sprig to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the butter and aromatics over the top of the steak continually for 1.5–3 minutes while the internal temperature rises. Baste until the steak reaches your target temperature (see temperatures below).

7

Target internal temperatures

Use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the steak: 120–125°F for rare, 130–135°F for medium-rare, 140–145°F for medium. For a 14 oz ribeye about 1–1.5 inches thick, expect 2.5–6 additional minutes after the initial sear depending on desired doneness; rely on thermometer, not time alone.

8

Rest the steak

Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 8–10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. During resting, the internal temperature will rise about 5°F.

Finishing & serving

9

Finish and slice

If using, sprinkle the rested steak with 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Slice against the grain into 1/4–1/2-inch slices and serve immediately, spooning any reserved pan butter and aromatics over the slices.