How to Prepare
The world’s most exquisite beef, A5 Wagyu is legendary for its umami flavor and buttery finish. Learning how to properly prepare your A5 Japanese Wagyu is essential to getting the most out of the experience. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
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How to Cook A5 Wagyu
Bite-size portions. Slice into small strips and cook each one at a time. With A5 Wagyu, a little goes a long way, so savor and enjoy as you go.
Season. Sprinkle a little sea salt (e.g. sel gris), to taste. Pepper is okay, too. Season lightly so you can savor and enjoy the flavor of the meat itself. Alternatively, you can season after cooking the meat. The choice is up to you.
Cook on Stainless Steel. Sear the meat (sliced 1-inch by 4-inches) directly on the hot surface of the pan for 1 to 2 minutes per side. No need for oil, the fat from the A5 will melt out and provide more than enough for cooking.
How to Cook A5 Wagyu
How to Defrost A5 Wagyu
Prepare your Wagyu beef properly to enjoy it fully.
Defrost: Place the cuts you're planning to serve in your fridge for up to 48 hours to allow them to fully defrost.
Rest. Take the meat out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking, and allow it to come to room temperature.
DO NOT: Do not defrost at room temperature. The fat in A5 Wagyu has a lower melting point than other beef. Also, never put A5 Wagyu in the microwave.
Japanese Cuts
Japanese A5 Wagyu is cut thinner than what you might be used to; about 3/4 inch thick for steaks and 1 ½ to 2 inches for tenderloin.
There’s good reason to cut it thinner — A5 Wagyu is seriously rich and intense! A word of advice: Don’t think of it like other steaks you’re used to.
The thin cuts are also easier to handle and cook. We highly recommend cutting 1 inch by 4 inch strips to sear and serve as you go, progressing your way through the entire steak a little bit at a time so you have time to enjoy and savor each bite. (Even so, it somehow still never lasts long enough. Trust us.)
A5 Pairings
Light, crisp, chilled salad greens go really well with Japanese A5 Wagyu. Sauteed root vegetables make a good pairing, too.
As for beverages, there are no strict rules. Match A5 with something you love, such as sake, wine, beer or something else. Whichever will make the experience that much more enjoyable.
Pro tip: Save any fat you trim from your steaks. Chop and use to sautee veggies.
Japanese Wagyu > How to Cook A5 Wagyu
