- How much should I cook it?
- Strictly medium-rare or rare. If cooked well-done, it becomes tough as shoe leather due to lack of fat.
- Can't find Emu?
- Ostrich steak or lean beef tenderloin are the best alternatives.
Grilled Emu Steaks with Garlic & Rosemary
Emu meat is one of gastronomy's best-kept secrets: a red meat that resembles the finest beef tenderloin in flavor and texture, yet with negligible fat content. Because it is extremely lean, gentle handling is key—overcooking is the enemy. The classic pairing of rosemary and garlic highlights the meat's natural, slightly gamey aroma without overpowering it.
Ingredients
4
steaks
Emu Steaks (at room temperature)
2
tbsp
Olive Oil
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
tbsp
Fresh Rosemary (chopped)
2
tsp
Coarse Sea Salt
1
tsp
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1
tbsp
Lemon Juice
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Equipment Needed
- Grill pan or Outdoor grill
- Meat thermometer (highly recommended!)
- Basting brush
- Paper towels
Instructions
1
✓
Remove meat from the fridge at least 20 minutes before grilling to reach room temperature. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
Tip: Putting cold meat in a hot pan cools it down, causing it to steam instead of sear. Moisture on the surface does the same.
2
✓
Prepare the marinade: mix olive oil, crushed garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Rub thoroughly over the meat and let sit for 30 minutes.
Tip: Salt begins to penetrate the meat structure, while acidic lemon juice tenderizes fibers.
3
✓
Heat the grill pan or grill until smoking hot. Lightly oil the grates.
Tip: A hot surface instantly sears the meat, sealing in juices.
4
✓
Place steak on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Do not move unnecessarily; flip only once when it releases from the grate.
Tip: Emu is best when internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (medium-rare). Do not overcook!
5
✓
Remove from heat and let rest on a warm plate for 5-10 minutes before serving. This is the most crucial step!
Tip: During cooking, juices concentrate in the center. Resting allows them to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 4 steaks Emu Steaks (at room temperature)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (chopped)
- 2 tsp Coarse Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice