Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Shari Mason
I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a meal at Outback Steakhouse with my loved ones. While savoring each bite, I couldn’t help but wonder about the secret behind the delicious flavors of their dishes.
Specifically, I was curious about the oil they use in their cooking. The selection of oil plays a pivotal role in shaping the taste and texture of the foods we hold dear.
So, what oil does Outback Steakhouse use?
Today, I decided to research the type of oil that Outback Steakhouse uses to create those tasty dishes that keep us coming back for more. Keep reading.
What Oil Does Outback Steakhouse Use In Cooking?
Outback Steakhouse, known for its delectable dishes, relies on beef tallow as its cooking oil [1].
Beef tallow is a type of fat rendered from beef, bringing a rich and savory flavor to their dishes.
“Outback’s got a secret weapon: a special oil that turns every steak into an Aussie delight.”
– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice
This choice of oil adds to the taste and helps achieve that signature sear on their steaks. But is it better to use olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking a steak?
Why Does Outback Steakhouse Include Beef Tallow In Its Cooking?
Outback Steakhouse uses beef tallow in its cooking for several reasons. First, beef tallow can intensify the taste of food, especially their signature steaks.
It adds a savory richness that keeps customers coming back for more. And beef tallow is a reliable oil for cooking because it remains stable at high temperatures.
It doesn’t break down or become rancid easily, making it perfect for techniques like frying, commonly used in restaurant kitchens.
This stability ensures that the dishes at Outback Steakhouse maintain their quality and consistency, providing a satisfying dining experience time and again.
Find out how Outback will cook their steaks here.
What Exactly Is Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow is an ancient and traditional cooking oil that humans have used for thousands of years.
It traces back to civilizations like the Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, who employed it for various purposes, including cooking and lighting lamps.
This cooking oil is derived from beef, specifically from its fat. The process involves heating the beef fat to separate the liquid and solid fat.
Once the liquid fat cools down, it solidifies into what we know as beef tallow.
One of the remarkable qualities of beef tallow is its high smoke point, making it a preferred choice for various cooking methods, including frying and sautéing.
How Long Does Tallow Oil Last?
When stored properly, tallow oil typically maintains its quality for up to one year. This traditional cooking fat can be surprisingly long-lasting.
However, protecting it from factors like heat, light, and air is essential, which can cause it to spoil more quickly.
Tallow oil can retain its freshness for the specified duration when kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Is It Healthy To Eat Beef Tallow?
Eating beef tallow can have some health benefits when consumed in moderation. This traditional cooking fat is flavorful and rich in essential nutrients.
It aids in better nutrient absorption from your meals and is packed with vitamins A, D, E, K, and B1, vital for overall health.
Moreover, beef tallow contains conjugated linoleic acid, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
This means it may help reduce inflammation, benefiting those with inflammatory conditions.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Using Beef Tallow?
While beef tallow has advantages, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks. The primary concern often revolves around its saturated fat content.
Because tallow contains a significant amount of saturated fat, some individuals worry that its consumption may lead to elevated LDL-cholesterol levels, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“The most indespensible ingredient of all good home cooking: love for those you are cooking for.”
– Sophia Loren, Italian Actress
It’s worth noting that dietary recommendations have evolved, and the impact of saturated fats on health is a subject of ongoing research.
To maintain a balanced diet, it’s advisable to consume tallow and other sources of saturated fat in moderation.
Also Read: Outback-Style Classic vs Prime Rib
Why Don’t People Use Beef Tallow Anymore?
The decline in the use of beef tallow can be attributed to rising health concerns surrounding saturated fat.
As health awareness increased, concerns over saturated fat consumption reached an all-time high.
In response to these health concerns, many people shifted towards cooking oils perceived as healthier, such as vegetable oils with lower saturated fat content.
The belief that these alternatives were better for heart health led to a decrease in the popularity of beef tallow in cooking.
Also Read: Is It Okay To Cook Steak In A Bacon Grease?
FAQs
Does Outback use peanut oil in their recipes?
No, Outback Steakhouse does not use peanut oil in their recipes, as such, it ensures a safe dining experience for those with peanut allergies.
Does Outback use soybean oil for their dishes?
No, Outback Steakhouse does not use soybean oil for their dishes. Typically, they use a blend of vegetable oils or beef tallow for cooking, ensuring a unique flavor profile in their food.
What makes Outback Steaks tender?
Outback steaks are made tender through a meticulous aging process. Each cut of meat is aged until it reaches its optimal tenderness.
This careful aging process allows the steaks to unlock their natural juices and flavor, resulting in tender and flavorful steaks.
Find out where Outback gets their steaks here.
Does Tallow require refrigeration?
No, tallow does not require refrigeration. It is shelf-stable; all you need to do is store it in an airtight container like a mason jar to maintain its freshness.
What oil is used for steak in restaurants?
Restaurants often use oils with high smoke points for cooking steak. Some ideal options include peanut, canola oil [2], grapeseed, and avocado oil.
These oils can endure the high temperatures needed for searing steak, guaranteeing a flavorful crust without the risk of burning or imparting undesirable tastes.
In Summary
Outback Steakhouse uses beef tallow as its cooking oil, a choice of both tradition andticality.
Beef tallow, a rendered beef fat, has been used in cooking for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations.
Thanks to its rich and savory profile, it enhances the flavor of dishes, particularly their signature steaks.
Besides, beef tallow’s high smoke point makes it suitable for high-heat cooking, ensuring their dishes are consistently delicious.
While there are health concerns related to its saturated fat content, it remains a valuable culinary ingredient, offering unique flavors and cooking advantages when used in moderation.
References:
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/expand-your-healthy-cooking-oil-choices
- https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/canola-oil
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