For steak lovers, the Northeastern region of the United States is recognized as one of the best places to savour a perfectly cooked and flavourful steak. New England has been known for its expertise in steak preparation for a long time. In particular, the state is famous for its succulent steak tips. But the question arises: are steak tips a New England thing?
Steak tips refer to cubed pieces of steak. It is usually marinated for a few hours or even overnight, to let the flavours seep into the meat. The pieces are often grilled, but pan-sauteed and baked are also other ways of preparing steak tips. Although not typical steak cuts, steak tips are top-selling items at most steakhouses and restaurants in New England. Let’s explore whether steak tips are genuinely unique to this region in this article.
The History of Steak Tips in New England
Steak tips have been a staple food item in New England for a long time. It is believed that the dish originated in the region, dating back to the early 20th century. One theory suggests that the dish was first made in Boston’s North End and then spread throughout the rest of the region.
Steak tips are essentially small pieces of steak, usually cut from the sirloin or tenderloin, that have been marinated and grilled to perfection. They are often served with roasted vegetables, fries, or a salad. Over the years, steak tips have become increasingly popular and are now a mainstay of many New England menus.
Iconic Restaurants in New England That Serve Steak Tips
New England is home to many iconic restaurants that serve mouth-watering steak tips as their signature dish. These restaurants are not only a popular spot for locals, but also attract tourists from far and wide who come to experience the authentic New England taste.
One such restaurant is the The Capital Grille, located in Boston. It is renowned for its tender and juicy steak tips that are cooked to perfection and served with a side of delicious mashed potatoes. Another popular spot is the Jake’s Steakhouse, located in Rhode Island. It has been serving up steak tips for over 30 years and has become a staple in the community. Other must-visit restaurants that serve steak tips include The Black Birch in Kittery, Maine, and The Bancroft in Burlington, Massachusetts.
The Different Marinades and Cooking Techniques for Steak Tips
Steak tips are a popular dish in New England, known for their tender texture and juicy flavor. Part of the appeal of steak tips is the wide variety of marinades used to flavor the meat before it’s cooked. Popular marinades include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, honey, and brown sugar. Some recipes even call for beer or red wine to be added to the marinade. The marinated meat is then cooked to perfection using different techniques such as grilling, broiling, or sautéing.
Grilling is the most popular method of cooking steak tips, giving them a slightly smoky flavor that complements the marinade. Broiling is another option that is quick and easy, but requires careful attention to avoid overcooking the meat. Sautéing steak tips is a great option for those who don’t have access to an outdoor grill or don’t want to broil their meat. This method results in tender, juicy steak tips that are perfect for a weeknight meal. With so many options for marinades and cooking techniques, steak tips are a versatile and delicious New England favorite.
How Steak Tips Became a Staple of BBQ Culture in New England
BBQ culture in New England is incomplete without steak tips. It has become a staple food item for all the BBQ parties and summer cookouts. The juicy, tender and mouth-watering steak tips originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s in the north-eastern states of the US. Initially, they were not widely popular and were considered a cheap cut of meat. However, due to their affordability, delicious taste and versatility, steak tips slowly started gaining popularity among the locals.
The credit for making steak tips a popular BBQ food item goes to the many roadside BBQ joints that started serving them. The aroma of the sizzling steak tips would lure people to these joints, and soon they became the hotspots for weekend BBQ parties. With time, various recipes and cooking techniques have evolved, turning steak tips into a cultural icon of New England BBQ cuisine. Today, they are enjoyed by people of all ages and are an essential part of any BBQ party in the region.
Popular Accompaniments and Sides to Serve with Steak Tips
When it comes to serving steak tips, there are a number of popular accompaniments and sides that complement the dish perfectly. One of the most common side dishes is grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. These add a refreshing crunch to the steak and balance out the richness of the meat. A side of mashed potatoes or a baked potato is also often served to create a hearty and filling meal.
Another popular side is macaroni and cheese, which is a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with tender and juicy steak tips. Many restaurants also serve a side of rice or French fries, which provide a starchy component to the dish. Finally, a crisp, fresh salad is an excellent way to balance out the flavors and textures in the meal, providing a lighter contrast to the rich beef. Regardless of the accompanying dish, steak tips are a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Regional Variations and Preferences for Steak Tips in New England
Regional Variations and Preferences for Steak Tips in New England:
Steak tips are a beloved dish in New England but the variations and preferences vary by region. For example, in Massachusetts, it’s common to see steak tips served with sweet and sour marinades, while in Rhode Island, a pizza steak tip sub is a popular choice. In Connecticut, steak tips are often grilled and served with a garlic and butter marinade.
In Maine and New Hampshire, teriyaki steak tips are popular, while Vermonters prefer their steak tips marinated in maple syrup. Despite the regional variations, steak tips remain a ubiquitous dish across New England. Whether it’s served with barbeque sauce, teriyaki, garlic and butter, or maple syrup, steak tips remain a staple on menus and at backyard barbecues throughout the region.
The Future of Steak Tips in New England Cuisine
As New England cuisine evolves, it is difficult to predict the future of steak tips. Some may argue that steak tips will continue to be a staple in the region’s cuisine, considering their popularity amongst locals and visitors alike. However, with the emergence of new culinary trends and an increased focus on sustainability, it is possible that other cuts of meat may replace steak tips on menus.
It is also worth considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the restaurant industry and New England cuisine as a whole. As restaurants adapt to new restrictions and regulations, their menus may change, and the popularity of certain dishes could shift. Ultimately, the future of steak tips in New England cuisine will depend on a multitude of factors, from consumer demand to the availability of certain cuts of meat. Only time will tell if steak tips will continue to be a beloved dish in the region’s culinary scene.
The Bottom Line
To recap, steak tips are a popular dish in New England, especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. These tender, marinated pieces of steak are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, often served at backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and local restaurants.
While the origins of steak tips remain unclear, there is no denying their popularity in the region. Whether grilled to perfection or seared in a cast iron skillet, this dish is a delicious representation of the region’s cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting New England. So, next time you find yourself in the Northeast, be sure to indulge in some flavorful steak tips for a true taste of New England.