Bistecca alla Fiorentina
(Florentine-Style Steak, Tuscan Porterhouse)
Known as the holiest of holies of Italian cuisine, the Florentine-style beef steak is prepared exclusively with dry-aged beef from the Chianina cattle, which is particularly prized for its tenderness. Even though bistecca alla Fiorentina is often described as a T-bone steak, it is much closer to a porterhouse - since it's cut closer to the center, the tenderloin is much larger than the one on a regular T-bone.
Also, bistecca alla Fiorentina must be thick; the cut needs to be at least three fingers wide so that when the meat is grilled over a very hot flame, a nice, slightly charred crust forms on the outside of the steak while the inside remains succulent.
In fact, bistecca alla Fiorentina is never, ever served medium or well-done, as any true Tuscan will insist that this dream of a steak should only be eaten sanguinoso, meaning rare. To enjoy your Florentine-style steak the Italian way, simplicity is the way to go - highlight the rich flavor of grilled beef with nothing more than a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, rosemary, and salt.
Pairing tips
Brunello di Montalcino
Brunello di Montalcino is a red Italian wine produced in the vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino in the Tuscany wine region. Though it was initially ... Read more
Bolgheri rosso
Intensely rich and well-balanced red Bolgheri wines, as well as light rosés, are predominantly based on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Cabernet Franc.... Read more
Chianti
Chianti wine is a red blend from Chianti, a small region in Tuscany, Italy. Made with a minimum of 70% Sangiovese grapes, a wine calling itself Chianti is allowed ... Read more
Rosso di Montalcino
This red Italian wine is made with 100% Sangiovese grapes, and it is produced in the vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino. The wine was created as a fresher and ... Read more
Bistecca alla Fiorentina Authentic recipe
The following is the traditional bistecca alla Fiorentina recipe. It is adapted from Visit Tuscany website, the official tourism website for the Province of Tuscany.
WHERE TO EAT The best Bistecca alla Fiorentina in the world (according to food experts)
RELATED VIDEOS
