Are Steak Tips A New England Thing? Explained

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Being from New England, **steak tips** look like a special treat. New Englanders sure love their steak tips ’cause they’re different and packed with flavor. The secret? It’s all in the marinade, making them tastier than anything else out there. Fun fact: Lots of folks outside New England haven’t even tried these yummy bites! Think about that juicy, savory flavor that melts right in your mouth—it’s one of a kind. They’re so popular here, local restaurants sell thousands of pounds every week. Who wouldn’t want to try that? For anyone curious about true New England treats, tasting these **amazing steak tips** is a must!

Growing up, these juicy, marinated pieces of beef were a staple at family cookouts and neighborhood BBQs. But are they genuinely unique to the region? 

I’ll explore steak tips’ history and cultural significance in New England cuisine.

Are Steak Tips Unique To New England?

While steak tips are popular in New England, they are not unique to the region.

These flavorful, marinated pieces of beef can be found on menus and in cookbooks across the country, particularly in areas with a strong BBQ culture like the southern United States. 

“I eat chicken and rice, steak, and baked potato. That’s it.”

– Ronnie Coleman, American Bodybuilder

However, steak tips have become a beloved regional dish in New England due to their versatility, ease of preparation, and cultural significance. 

They are a staple at family cookouts and neighborhood BBQs and can be found on menus from local diners to high-end restaurants. 

What Exactly Are Steak Tips?

Steak tips [1] are small, bite-sized pieces of beef typically cut from the sirloin or flap meat.

They are marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices, oil, and vinegar or citrus juice, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. 

Steak tips are versatile dishes that can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, broiling, or pan-searing. 

They are a popular menu item at many restaurants, particularly those focusing on BBQ or comfort food.

Why Are Steak Tips So Popular In New England?

Steak tips have become a popular dish in New England for various reasons. 

One of the main reasons is their versatility and ease of preparation – they are an excellent option for outdoor cooking and can be served in various ways, from skewered on a stick to piled high on a sandwich. 

Additionally, steak tips are a crowd-pleaser that people of all ages and tastes can enjoy.

They are also deeply ingrained in the region’s culinary culture and history, with many families and communities passing down their unique marinade [2] recipes and preparation techniques. 

Where Can You Find The Best Steak Tips In New England?

1. The Clam Box, Ipswich, MA: The Clam Box is a seafood joint that also serves up some of the best steak tips in the area. Their steak tips are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
2. Red Bones BBQ, Somerville, MA: This popular BBQ spot in Somerville is known for its award-winning meats, including its delicious steak tips. They are marinated in a secret blend of spices and cooked perfectly over an open flame.
3. Wes’ Rib House, Providence, RI: Wes’ Rib House is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving delicious BBQ since 1948. Their steak tips are a favorite and are cooked perfectly on the grill.
4. Harry’s Place, Colchester, CT: This classic roadside stand in Connecticut is known for its delicious burgers and hot dogs, but its steak tips are to be noticed. They are marinated in a special sauce and grilled to perfection.
5. The Steak House, Wells, ME: The Steak House in Wells, Maine, has been a staple in the area for over 60 years. Their steak tips are a customer favorite and are cooked to order over an open flame for maximum flavor and tenderness.

“Steak tips may not be exclusive to New England, but there’s no denying that they hold a special place in the hearts and bellies of locals. They’re more than just a dish – they’re a tradition, a symbol of community and togetherness.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

How Do You Make The Perfect Steak Tips At Home?

1. Choose high-quality meat: Start with a good cut of beef, such as sirloin or flap meat. Trim any excess fat or gristle before cutting the meat into bite-sized pieces.
2. Marinate the meat: Make a marinade using your favorite spices, seasonings, oil, vinegar, or citrus juice. Marinate the meat for at least a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the grill or skillet: Preheat your grill or skillet to high heat. If using a grill, brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the steak tips: Place the steak tips on the grill or skillet, carefully not to overcrowd them. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking.
5. Let the meat rest: After cooking, let the steak tips rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will help keep the meat tender and juicy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

While steak tips are beloved in New England cuisine, they are not necessarily unique. These flavorful pieces of beef can be found on menus and in cookbooks nationwide, particularly in areas with a strong BBQ culture. 

However, steak tips have become a staple of New England culinary culture, representing a classic and comforting dish that brings communities together around the grill. 

Whether enjoyed at a backyard cookout, a family gathering, or a local restaurant, steak tips are a versatile and satisfying option that will surely please any meat lover’s palate.

References:

1. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/steak-tips-3507503
2. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/143809/best-steak-marinade-in-existence/