Pan-Seared Emu Steak with Native Spices
Experience a taste of the Australian outback with this lean, flavorful emu steak, seasoned with native pepperberries and wattleseed. Emu is a remarkably lean red meat, often compared to venison or lean beef, and is best enjoyed rare to medium-rare to preserve its tenderness and delicate flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Emu fillets (steaks, approx. 1-inch thick)(Ensure steaks are at room temperature for even cooking.)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(Or other high-heat cooking oil.)
- 1 tsp Native pepperberries(Crushed. These have a unique, pungent flavor. If unavailable, substitute with a mix of black peppercorns and a pinch of allspice.)
- 1/2 tsp Wattleseed(Lightly toasted and ground. Adds a nutty, coffee-like aroma. If unavailable, substitute with finely ground toasted almonds or a pinch of instant coffee granules.)
- to taste Sea salt(Coarse sea salt is recommended.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Emu: Remove the emu fillets from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. Pat the steaks thoroughly dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a small bowl, combine the crushed native pepperberries, ground wattleseed, and sea salt. Generously season all sides of the emu steaks with this spice mixture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Sear the Steaks: Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers but is not smoking. Carefully place the seasoned emu steaks into the hot skillet. Sear for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, undisturbed, until a deep brown crust forms. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 54-57°C (130-135°F). For medium, aim for 60-63°C (140-145°F). Avoid overcooking, as emu is very lean and can become tough.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 3
Rest the Steaks: Once seared to your desired doneness, immediately remove the emu steaks from the skillet and transfer them to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist result.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 4
Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the emu steaks against the grain into thin strips. Serve immediately, ideally rare to medium-rare, to best appreciate the unique flavor and texture of this native Australian meat. It pairs wonderfully with native accompaniments like roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Emu meat is extremely lean and cooks very quickly. Overcooking will result in a dry, tough texture.
- ✓Always serve emu steak rare to medium-rare for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- ✓Experiment with other native Australian spices like lemon myrtle or bush tomato for different flavor profiles.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with a vibrant quandong sauce or a red wine reduction.
- Grill the emu steaks over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor, following the same searing and resting guidelines.
- Marinate the emu steaks briefly (15-30 minutes) in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before searing.