When you think of fine dining and succulent steaks, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is often one of the first names that comes to mind. Known for its exceptional service and top-quality cuts of meat, Ruth’s Chris is a favorite among steak lovers. But what’s the secret behind their mouthwatering steaks? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the cooking techniques, selections, and the philosophy that makes Ruth’s Chris a standout in the world of steaks.
The Philosophy Behind Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Founded in 1965 by Ruth Fertel, Ruth’s Chris Steak House started from humble beginnings in New Orleans. Ruth’s vision was to create a dining experience that combined exceptional food with warm hospitality. Today, this vision continues to resonate through every stage of their steak preparation and cooking process.
Freshness and Quality: Ruth’s Chris prioritizes serving only the freshest ingredients. The steaks are sourced from top-rated suppliers who adhere to strict quality control, ensuring that every cut meets exacting standards.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Ruth’s Chris offers an array of steak options, from the classic filet mignon to the robust ribeye. The selection is crucial, as the cut of meat significantly influences the cooking method and end flavor.
Popular Steak Cuts at Ruth’s Chris
Here are some of the most popular cuts you’ll find at Ruth’s Chris Steak House:
- Filet Mignon: Known for its tenderness, filet mignon is often considered the most luxurious cut of steak available.
- Ribeye: With its marbling, the ribeye offers robust flavor and juiciness. It’s popular among those who enjoy steaks with a stronger taste.
- New York Strip: A balance of tenderness and flavor, this cut offers a firm texture without sacrificing juiciness.
- Porterhouse: A combination of filet and strip, the porterhouse is ideal for sharing or for those who want the best of both worlds.
Each steak cut is meticulously chosen based on its unique characteristics and flavor profile.
The Ruth’s Chris Cooking Method
What sets Ruth’s Chris apart from other steakhouses is their unique cooking technique. Utilizing a specialty cooking method that involves high-temperature broiling, they ensure that each steak reaches its full potential.
High-Temperature Broiling
One of Ruth’s Chris’s secrets lies in the high-temperature broiling technique. This method involves cooking steaks at an extreme temperature of around 1,800°F (982°C).
Here’s why this method works:
– Sealing in Juices: The intense heat caramelizes the meat on the outside, locking in the natural juices.
– Flavor Enhancement: The Maillard reaction occurs at high temperatures, creating a richer flavor and a delectable crust.
– Perfect doneness: Cooking quickly at high temperatures allows for precise control over doneness, ensuring that the interior remains tender and juicy.
Steps in the Ruth’s Chris Cooking Method
Preparation of the Steak: Each steak is seasoned generously with kosher salt and black pepper. This simple but effective seasoning approach enhances the natural flavor of the meat without overpowering it.
Preheating the Broiler: The broiler must be thoroughly preheated to ensure that the steaks cook evenly.
Cooking the Steak: The seasoned steak is placed on a special broiler pan and put into the high-temperature broiler. The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness.
Finishing Touches: Once cooked, the steak is removed from the heat and prepared to be served.
Serving on a Hot Plate: Each steak is served on a sizzling plate that has been heated to about 500°F (260°C). This retains the steak’s heat while it’s served, enhancing your dining experience.
The Role of Butter and Seasoning
At Ruth’s Chris, butter plays a pivotal role in the final flavor profile of their steaks. After cooking, the steaks are garnished with a pat of melted butter, which adds richness and a velvety finish.
Butter as a Flavor Enhancer
The process of finishing each steak with herb-infused butter contributes to a luxurious mouthfeel and enhances the steak’s natural flavor. The butter not only adds flavor but also maintains the steak’s warmth from the sizzling plate, allowing the rich, savory taste to melt into each bite.
The Importance of Doneness
Understanding the doneness levels of steak is crucial while dining at Ruth’s Chris. The restaurant takes pride in cooking steaks precisely to each guest’s liking, from rare to well-done.
Common Doneness Levels at Ruth’s Chris
- Rare: Cool red center (120°F – 125°F)
- Medium Rare: Warm red center (130°F – 135°F)
- Medium: Warm pink center (140°F – 145°F)
- Medium Well: Slightly pink center (150°F – 155°F)
- Well Done: Fully cooked with no pink (160°F and above)
Each degree of doneness has its ardent followers, and Ruth’s Chris ensures that every steak is cooked to your desired level, blending flavor and tenderness perfectly.
The Sides and Sauces: Complementing the Steak
The experience at Ruth’s Chris doesn’t stop with the steak. The restaurant is known for its delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of the meat.
Signature Sides
Some of the standout sides include:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes are a classic complement to any steak.
- Brussels Sprouts: Often roasted to a golden brown, they provide a slightly bitter crunch that enhances your meal.
Aside from sides, the sauces offered, such as Bernays or the signature Ruth’s Chris Steak Sauce, provide additional flavor dimensions, allowing guests to customize their culinary journey.
Pairing Wine with Your Steak
To elevate the dining experience, pairing wine with your steak can enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable. The wine list at Ruth’s Chris is extensive, featuring selections that complement their steaks perfectly.
Recommended Wine Pairings
A classic rule of thumb is to match your steak with a robust red wine. Here are some suggestions:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Pairs well with the rich flavors of ribeye.
- Merlot: An excellent choice for filet mignon, offering a softer taste that complements its tenderness.
Choosing the right wine not only complements the flavors of the steak but also enhances your overall dining experience.
Conclusion
The art of cooking steak at Ruth’s Chris is a perfect blend of high-quality ingredients, expert techniques, and a deep understanding of flavors. From their high-temperature broiling to their careful selection of cuts and finishing touches with butter, each step ensures that diners enjoy a delicious and memorable meal.
Whether you are a lover of tender filet mignon or enjoy the powerful flavors of a ribeye, the experience at Ruth’s Chris Steak House is unmatched. With their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence, it’s no wonder that Ruth’s Chris has become a beloved destination for steak enthusiasts around the globe.
So, the next time you find yourself at a Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you’ll know exactly what makes their steaks a cut above the rest!
What type of steaks does Ruth’s Chris use?
Ruth’s Chris is renowned for using USDA Prime beef, which is the top tier of quality in the United States. This classification indicates that the beef has a high degree of marbling, ensuring tenderness and flavor in every bite. The selection typically includes cuts like filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip, and T-bone, each chosen for its unique attributes and appeal.
The focus on quality extends beyond just the type of steak. Ruth’s Chris sources their beef from trusted suppliers who follow strict guidelines to maintain the high standards of selection. This attention to detail is a cornerstone of their commitment to providing a superior dining experience.
How does Ruth’s Chris cook their steaks?
Ruth’s Chris employs a unique cooking method that sets them apart from many other steakhouses. They cook their steaks at a high temperature, utilizing an 1800-degree broiler that locks in juices and flavors. This intense heat caramelizes the exterior of the meat, creating a delicious crust while preserving the succulent tenderness inside.
Once the steaks reach the desired doneness, they are served on a sizzling 500-degree plate. This method not only keeps the steak hot for a longer period but also enhances the overall dining experience. When the steak arrives at your table, the sound and aroma of the sizzle heighten anticipation, making each meal unforgettable.
What is the best way to determine steak doneness at Ruth’s Chris?
Ruth’s Chris provides guests with a clear guide to help them choose their preferred steak doneness. The standard levels range from rare to well-done, and each has specific characteristics. Rare is cool and red in the center, while well-done is fully cooked through with no pink. The staff is trained to explain these options thoroughly, ensuring diners make an informed choice.
Moreover, Ruth’s Chris pays close attention to customer preferences. If you’re unsure of what level of doneness to choose, their servers are happy to provide recommendations based on your taste. They also emphasize the importance of resting the meat after cooking, as this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful experience.
What sides complement the steak at Ruth’s Chris?
At Ruth’s Chris, the sides are crafted to enhance and complement the rich flavors of their steaks. Classic choices include garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, and creamed spinach, each carefully prepared to provide a balance of flavors and textures. These sides not only round out the meal but also contribute additional richness that pairs beautifully with the steaks.
For those looking to add a fresh twist, Ruth’s Chris also offers options such as grilled asparagus and brussels sprouts with bacon. The variety of sides available allows guests to customize their meals based on personal preferences, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the steak’s quality.
Can I order steak to-go from Ruth’s Chris?
Yes, Ruth’s Chris offers a takeout option for guests who wish to enjoy their signature steaks at home. This service allows customers to order their favorite cuts along with sides for a complete meal experience. The to-go packaging is designed to maintain the quality and temperature of the food, so you can enjoy the same great taste as dining in the restaurant.
It’s advisable to check with your local Ruth’s Chris location for specific details on their takeout menu and availability. Some locations may also offer special meal kits or family-style options, allowing for a unique dining experience wherever you choose to eat.
Does Ruth’s Chris accommodate dietary restrictions?
Ruth’s Chris is dedicated to providing a great dining experience for all guests, including those with dietary restrictions. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can assist with modifications based on specific needs. They take care to provide gluten-free options and can accommodate vegetarian requests as well.
If you have particular allergies or dietary concerns, it’s best to inform your server upon arrival. Ruth’s Chris aims to ensure that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal while feeling safe and accommodated. The commitment to guest satisfaction is evident in their willingness to adapt menu offerings to suit various diets.