When it comes to savoring a juicy, mouthwatering steak, most of us are familiar with classic cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. But have you ever heard of a baseball steak? If not, let’s find out the answer to a common query, “What is a baseball steak?” right now!
What Is A Baseball Steak?
Generally, baseball steak, also known as “baseball-cut” steak, is a thick, circular cut taken from the upper portion of sirloin (top sirloin or sometimes the center of the top sirloin). Its tender and flavorful muscle, rich taste, and satisfying texture set it apart from other beef steak cuts.
What are other names of baseball steak?
There are several other names that you can call for a baseball steak. Understanding these alternatives will help ensure clear and effective communication when buying, cooking, or discussing the cut with others. Here are some alternative names for baseball steak:
- Center-cut
- Steak with a center cut
- Steak sliced in the shape of a baseball
- Prime sirloin steak
- Top sirloin steak
- Top sirloin cut
- Top sirloin filet
- Top sirloin steak that is boneless
- Top sirloin butt steak
- Sirloin fillet
- Sirloin butt steak
- Boneless top sirloin fillet
- Baseball-cut sirloin
- Loin tip steak
- Coulotte steak
- Knuckle steak
- Cut top sirloin
- Baseball cut steak
- Baseball cut top sirloin
You can explore more about what is Coulotte steak when considering the many types of beef steak you can make at home.
Where to buy baseball steak?
You have several options for purchasing a baseball steak. Here are some recommended places:
- Local Butcher Shops: Check out your nearby butcher shops or meat markets, where you can often find customized cuts and receive expert recommendations.
- Grocery Stores: Some well-stocked grocery stores with dedicated meat departments may carry baseball steak. Feel free to ask their in-house butcher or meat manager for assistance.
- Online Meat Retailers: Explore a variety of online meat retailers that specialize in delivering high-quality cuts, including baseball steak, directly to your doorstep.
- Specialty Meat Stores: Specialty meat stores or gourmet food shops might also offer unique beef cuts, such as baseball steak. One of the most popular options is Omaha Steaks, a reputable steak manufacturer. However, you should learn about its acceptable payment methods before purchasing since it does not allow some methods. For example, does Omaha Steaks take EBT or not? Does it accept PayPal payments?
- Farmers’ Markets: Depending on your location, local farmers’ markets can be a source of specialty meat cuts, including baseball steak.
- When making a purchase, it’s a good idea to inquire about the availability of baseball steak and seek advice on cooking and preparation from the seller or butcher.
What is baseball steak price?
In fact, the price of baseball steak can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the quality and quantity of the beef, your location, as well as where you purchase it.
Generally, this type of beef steak is considered more affordable than premium cuts like filet mignon or ribeye. However, it is highly appreciated for its tenderness and richness.
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $8 to $15 per pound for baseball steak at a local butcher shop or grocery store.
Like baseball steak, chuck steak is also an affordable but flavorful, versatile cut of beef. However, chuck steak tends to be more rough and beefy than baseball steak.
Nutritional Data for Baseball Steak
The nutrition contained in baseball steak can vary slightly depending on factors like the cut, fat content, and serving size. Here is a general nutritional profile for a 3-ounce (85-gram) top sirloin steak:
Nutrition | Portion size: 3-ounce (85-gram) |
Calories | 145 |
Total Fat | 4.56 g |
Protein | 26 g |
Zinc | 6.32 mg |
Iron | 2.46 mg |
Vitamin B-6 | 0.521 mg |
Vitamin B-12 | 3.1 µg |
In case you want a baseball steak with less fat, you can choose a cut of top sirloin from Bison Steak, a flavorful but lean type of steak.
How To Choose The Best Cut Of Baseball Steak?
Choosing the best cut of baseball steak involves considering several factors to ensure you get a flavorful and satisfying piece of meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Assess Marbling: Examine the steak in a round shape for marbling, which consists of thin streaks of intramuscular fat. More marbling generally indicates better flavor and tenderness.
- Consider Thickness: Opt for a steak with an appropriate thickness, usually around 1.5 to 2 inches. Thicker steaks are easier to cook without overcooking the center.
- Check Color: Look for bright red meat, a sign of freshness. Avoid steaks with any change in color or brownish areas.
- Smell Test: Give the steak a sniff. It should have a clean, slightly sweet, and meaty aroma. Steer clear of steaks with off or unpleasant smells.
- Assess Firmness: Gently press the steak with your finger; it should feel firm yet slightly springy. Steaks that are too soft might not be at their best.
- Consider Beef Grade: If available, consider the beef grade. Prime-grade steaks often have the highest marbling and quality, followed by Choice and Select.
Which Level Of Doneness Is Best For The Top Sirloin Steak Cut – Baseball Steak?
Medium-rare is the preferred level of doneness for a top sirloin steak, as it preserves both its texture and juiciness. Achieving a perfect medium rare can be accomplished through oven or grill cooking. If you’re inclined to pan-sear, don’t fret—your cast iron skillet can still do the job. However, given the steak’s thickness, it’s advisable to finish it in the oven.
When the baseball steak from button sirloin or top sirloin is medium rare, its center is warm and pink, with a slightly seared crust. This is a popular choice for steak enthusiasts as it balances tenderness and flavor.
How To Cook Baseball Steak? Baseball Steak Recipe
Watch the following video to learn how to cook baseball steak with a thorough but straightforward recipe and cooking method:
FAQs
Is baseball steak tender?
Yes, baseball steak is super tender and flavorful. Its tenderness can be attributed to its position within the top sirloin, a relatively lean yet tender muscle. Furthermore, the presence of marbling and the fine dispersion of fat within the meat enhances not only its tenderness but also its overall flavor profile.
What is baseball steak vs picanha?
In general, baseball steak and picanha steak originate from different parts of the animal and exhibit distinct shapes. Baseball steak, with its circular form, is sourced from the central portion of the top sirloin, delivering a combination of good flavor and moderate tenderness. In contrast, picanha boasts a triangular shape and is carved from the upper sirloin, celebrated for its extraordinary tenderness and abundant flavor, particularly due to its fatty cap.
What is baseball cut sirloin vs filet mignon?
Baseball-cut sirloin and filet mignon are different in their origin, shape, flavor, and texture. While baseball-cut sirloin comes from the top sirloin that is beefy and hearty, filet mignon comes from the tenderloin.
References:
- Wikipedia – Baseball steak – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baseball_steak