What Is Teres Major Steak? (Guide From Buying To Cooking)

Looking for a show-stopping dinner? This tender cut of beef is the place to be. For good reason, the teres major steak is one of the lesser-known cuts. This little cut takes some more effort on the part of a highly skilled butcher. But those in the know, know. This is why it is known as the valued ‘butcher’s cut;’ it is typically the reward for the extra effort required to carve these small steaks from a large muscle; they are cooked quickly and appreciated as an easy meal, rarely making it to the market for sale.

If you’re fortunate enough to be able to get this bistro filet, keep it simple and prepare it well; you’ll be in for a delicious meal. You’ll also discover why this steak is so popular among steak fans and why you should consider adding it to your cooking arsenal.

So read on to find out everything you need about teres major steak.

What Is A Teres Major Steak?

The teres major steak is a cut of beef from the top of the cow’s shoulder blade. It is a delicious and soft cut of beef that is positioned near the sirloin.

Because teres major is a smaller muscle than more well-known cuts like ribeye or sirloin, it is frequently marketed as a smaller steak or used in lesser portions in dishes like stir-fries or stews. It’s a lean cut of meat that’s best prepared with moist-heat methods like braising or roasting to keep it soft.

Some folks suggest marinating the teres major steak before cooking it to improve flavor and moisture.

Where Does The Teres Major Steak Come From?

The teres major steak comes from the shoulder blade area of the cow, specifically from the posterior or back portion of the shoulder blade. It is located between the shoulder blade and the ribcage. The teres major muscle is a long, slender muscle that runs along the back of the shoulder blade and is used for rotating and extending the arm.

It is often considered a less tender cut of meat due to its use in movement. Still, with proper cooking techniques, it can be tender and flavorful.

What Are The Benefits Of Eating A Teres Major Steak?

The Teres Major steak is a lean and flavorful meat packed with nutrients.

One of the main benefits of eating a Teres Major steak is that it is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It is also a good source of iron, which helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and helps to prevent anemia.

Lastly, the Teres Major steak is rich in B vitamins, essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes. Also, this cut of meat is low in fat, making it a healthier choice for those who are trying to watch their intake of saturated fat.

Also Read: Grilled Elk Venison Steaks Recipe

Is A Teres Major Steak Good For You?

Overall, a Teres Major steak can be a healthy choice as part of a balanced diet. It is a lean cut of meat that is low in fat and protein, which can help support muscle growth and repair. It is also a good source of iron, which is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body and can help to prevent anemia.

However, it is essential to remember that meat should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Excessive intake of red meat, including the Teres Major steak, may increase the risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.

What To Look For When Buying Teres Major Steak?

When buying a Teres Major steak, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best quality and flavor:

Grade

The grade of a steak refers to the marbling or amount of fat within the meat. The higher the grade, the more marbling and, therefore, the more flavorful the steak. Look for a Teres Major steak graded “prime” or “choice” for the best flavor and tenderness.

Age

Teres Major steaks that are aged for longer will be more tender and flavorful. Look for steaks that have been aged for at least 21 days.

Color

The color of the steak should be a deep red color, with no brown or grey spots. Avoid steaks that have a pale or yellowish color, as this may indicate that the meat is not fresh.

Size and Thickness

Choose a Teres Major steak that is the size and thickness you prefer. Keep in mind that thicker steaks will take longer to cook and may be more expensive, while thinner steaks will cook faster and be more budget-friendly.

Cut

The Teres Major steak is a specific cut of meat that comes from the shoulder blade of the cow. Make sure you are purchasing an authentic Teres Major steak and not a different cut of meat marketed as such.

Source

Look for Teres Major steaks that come from reputable sources, such as local farms or trusted meat retailers. Choosing meat from responsible sources can ensure that the steak is of good quality and has been humanely raised.

Where To Buy Teres Major Steak?

You can buy teres major steak at various places, including specialty meat markets, gourmet supermarkets, and online retailers. You can also try asking your local butcher or grocery store if they carry it. Some restaurants may also serve teres major steak on their menu. It is recommended to research and compare prices at different locations to find the best deal.

How To Prepare Teres Major Steak For Cooking?

To prepare a teres major steak for cooking, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Next, pat the steak dry with a paper towel and season it with your desired spices or marinade. If you choose to marinate the steak, allow it to sit in the marinade for at least an hour or overnight for more flavor.

How To Cook A Teres Major Steak?

To cook a teres major steak, start by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning blend.

Next, heat a pan or grill to medium-high heat and add oil to prevent sticking.

Place the steak in the pan or on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare or longer for the desired doneness.

Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes and sauces.

Teres Major Steak Cooking Tips

Here are some tips for cooking a teres major steak:

Start With A Room-Temperature Steak

Take your steak out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent the outside from getting overcooked before the inside is cooked to your desired doneness.

Preheat Your Grill Or Pan

It is important to preheat your grill or pan to high heat to get a good sear on the steak. This will help lock in the juices and add flavor to the steak.

Season The Steak

Season the steak with your desired seasoning before cooking. This can be a simple salt and pepper blend or a more complex rub.

Cook The Steak For 3-4 Minutes On Each Side For Medium-Rare

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Let The Steak Rest

Once it is cooked, rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and help prevent the steak from being overcooked.

What’s The Difference Between Teres Major Steak And Other Steaks?

The teres major steak is a small, flavorful cut of meat that comes from the shoulder blade area of the cow. It is often compared to the petite or shoulder tender, which is also cut from the shoulder blade.

One of the main differences between the teres major steak and other cuts is its size and shape. It is typically lengthy and narrow, with a somewhat circular cross-section. The teres major is also smaller than many other cuts of steak, such as the ribeye or sirloin.

Another difference is the flavor and tenderness of the meat. The teres major is known for its rich, beefy flavor and relatively tender texture. It is often considered a more flavorful alternative to other, more expensive cuts of steak, such as the filet mignon.

In terms of cooking, the teres major steak can be prepared in various ways. It is best cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness and can be grilled, pan-seared, or roasted. It is essential to slice the steak against the grain to help tenderize it and make it easier to chew.

Overall Thoughts

Now that you have a good understanding of what Teres Major steak is and how to grill it properly, you should be able to locate and purchase a quality cut of Teres Major steak.

As we mentioned before, look for the USDA Choice grade and the highest quality meat you can find to ensure that you get the best possible cut of meat. If you want to get the best-tasting meat, you should also look for grass-fed and free-range meat. We hope today you found this article helpful.