- How long to cook?
- Ostrich, like filet mignon, should be served pink (medium-rare). If well-done, it becomes dry and chewy.
- Serving suggestions?
- Fruity sauces (cranberry, cherry) or grilled root vegetables pair excellently with the meat's sweet notes.
Grilled Ostrich Steaks with Berry Sauce
Ostrich meat is nature's special gift: looking and tasting like red meat but with the lightness of poultry. It's incredibly lean, so speed and gentleness are key rules for grilling. A lemon-rosemary marinade adds flavor and uses acid to maintain tenderness.
Ingredients
1
lb
Ostrich Steaks
3
tbsp
Olive Oil
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
tsp
Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped)
1
tsp
Salt
1/2
tsp
Freshly Ground Pepper
2
tbsp
Lemon Juice
1/2
cup
Cranberry Sauce or Berry Jam (for serving)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Glass bowl for marinating (metal can react with acid)
- Meat Thermometer
Instructions
1
✓
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and pepper. Toss steaks in the mixture and let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Tip: Add salt only before cooking to prevent moisture loss.
2
✓
Heat grill to high. Salt the meat and place on the grate.
Tip: A sizzling sound indicates the surface is searing immediately.
3
✓
Grill 3-4 minutes per side. It is ready when the center is still pink (Internal temp: 130-135°F).
Tip: Since ostrich has almost no fat, cooking time is critical. Better undercooked than overcooked!
4
✓
Remove from grill, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
Tip: Temperature rises slightly during resting, and fibers relax to release juices.
5
✓
Serve sliced thinly with a dollop of berry sauce on top.
Tip: Tart fruit accents highlight the gamey flavors.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ostrich Steaks
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Pepper
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 cup Cranberry Sauce or Berry Jam (for serving)