Grilled Spanish Tomahawk Steak with Smoked Salt

There is perhaps no cut of beef more visually commanding and primal than the Tomahawk steak. When you combine this massive, bone-in ribeye with the earthy, aromatic spices of Spain and the distinct flavor of smoked salt, you create a culinary experience that goes far beyond a simple barbecue. Grilling this beast on an Arteflame adds an element of theater and precision that standard grills simply cannot match. The ability to sear at incredibly high temperatures over the center wood fire, while simultaneously gently cooking the interior on the flat cooktop, ensures that you achieve that coveted steakhouse crust without overcooking the center.

This recipe focuses on bold Spanish flavors—smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic—that complement the rich marbling of the beef rather than overpowering it. Whether you are hosting a special celebration or simply treating yourself to the ultimate carnivore feast, this Spanish-inspired Tomahawk requires patience, heat, and the highest quality ingredients. Prepare to impress your guests with a steak that is buttery tender on the inside and perfectly charred on the outside.

Ingredients

The Meat

• 1 Tomahawk Steak (approximately 2-3 lbs, at least 2 inches thick)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for binding)

The Spanish Rub

• 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika (Pimentón de la Vera)
• 1 tbsp Smoked Sea Salt (flake style preferred)
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
• 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary (for basting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation and Seasoning

1. Remove the Tomahawk steak from the refrigerator at least one hour before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat.
2. Pat the steak completely dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture, which is crucial for a good sear.
3. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Do not add the salt yet.
4. Rub the steak generously with olive oil, covering all sides including the bone.
5. Apply the spice rub evenly over the meat, pressing it in to adhere.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill using hardwood logs. Allow it to burn down until you have a bed of hot coals and the cooktop is fully heated.
2. Clean the flat carbon steel cooktop with a scraper and apply a thin layer of oil to season the surface.
3. Identify your heat zones: the area directly around the center grate is for high-heat searing, while the outer edges are for gentle, indirect cooking.

Step 3: The Searing Phase

1. Place the Tomahawk steak directly onto the center grill grate over the open fire.
2. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side. You are looking for a deep, mahogany crust and distinct char marks. Watch carefully to prevent burning the spices.
3. Using tongs, sear the fat cap on the side of the steak for 1 minute to render the fat and crisp it up.

Step 4: The Indirect Finish

1. Move the steak from the center grate to the flat cooktop surface. Position it toward the cooler outer edge to finish cooking gently.
2. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.
3. Cook, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare or 130°F for medium-rare.
4. During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the smoked sea salt generously over the steak.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the steak from the grill and place it on a cutting board or warm platter.
2. Let the meat rest for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute back into the muscle fibers.
3. Slice against the grain and serve immediately.

Tips

Cooking a massive cut like a Tomahawk requires attention to temperature management. The most critical tip for success is using a reliable instant-read digital thermometer. Going by "feel" can be deceptive with a bone-in steak this thick. Remember that the internal temperature will rise about 5 to 10 degrees while the steak rests (carryover cooking), so pull the meat off the grill slightly before it hits your target temperature. If you prefer a stronger crust, you can reverse the process: cook the steak slowly on the outer ring first until it hits 115°F, and then finish with a high-heat sear over the center grate at the very end. Finally, don't be afraid to use the rosemary sprig as a brush; dip it in melted butter or oil and baste the steak while it finishes on the flat top for an aromatic infusion.

Variations

While the Spanish smoked paprika rub offers a warm, earthy profile, the Tomahawk is a versatile canvas that can handle various flavor profiles. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different palates without changing the cooking technique. Experimenting with different rubs can transform the meal entirely, taking it from a Mediterranean feast to a classic American steakhouse dinner or a spicy Latin American experience. Here are a few excellent variations to try on your Arteflame:

• Coffee Crust: Mix ground espresso beans with brown sugar and chili powder for a deep, savory crust that pairs perfectly with beef.
• Chimichurri Style: Skip the dry rub and marinate the steak in parsley, oregano, garlic, vinegar, and oil, then serve with fresh chimichurri.
• Spicy Cajun: Swap the smoked paprika for cayenne pepper and add dried thyme and oregano for a Louisiana-inspired kick.
• Herb Butter Finish: Use salt and pepper only, then melt a compound butter with garlic and blue cheese over the steak while it rests.
• Asian Fusion: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, finishing with a glaze of teriyaki sauce on the flat top.

Best pairings

A steak of this magnitude deserves side dishes and beverages that can stand up to its rich, beefy flavor and the smoky notes of the paprika. Because the meat is so heavy, you generally want sides that offer acidity or freshness to cut through the fat, or starch to absorb the juices. Since you are already using the Arteflame, it makes sense to utilize the flat cooktop to prepare your sides alongside the meat. The juices from the steak can even be used to flavor vegetables grilling nearby.

• Patatas Bravas: Diced potatoes fried on the flat top until crispy, served with a spicy tomato aioli.
• Blistered Shishito Peppers: Quickly seared on the hot surface with a splash of lemon juice and flake salt.
• Grilled Asparagus: Wrapped in Serrano ham and grilled until tender-crisp.
• Drink Pairing: A bold Spanish red wine, such as a Rioja Gran Reserva or a Ribera del Duero, offers the tannins needed to balance the marbling of the ribeye.

Conclusion

Grilling a Spanish Tomahawk steak on the Arteflame is more than just cooking dinner; it is an immersive experience that celebrates the art of live-fire cooking. The combination of the visually striking bone-in cut, the aromatic allure of smoked paprika and cumin, and the unique searing capabilities of the grill results in a meal that is truly unforgettable. The smoky salt finish elevates the natural flavors of the beef, providing a crunch and burst of salinity with every bite.

By following these steps and respecting the process of resting the meat, you guarantee a steakhouse-quality result in your own backyard. Gather your friends and family, pour some wine, and enjoy the process of cooking this magnificent cut of beef. It is a testament to how simple, high-quality ingredients and the right equipment can create culinary magic.