What Is Dry-Aged Steak and Why Does It Taste Different?
What is dry-aged steak?
Dry-aging is a controlled process where we hang prime beef in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment. Over time, moisture evaporates from the surface, concentrating the beef’s natural flavors. Enzymes begin breaking down muscle fibers, which makes the meat more tender. At Crawford Brothers in the Fenton district of Cary, we do this in-house behind glass in the dining room, so you can see the cuts aging on the rack — one of the only see-through aging programs in the Triangle.
How long do you dry-age your steaks?
We dry-age for 28 to 45 days depending on the cut. At 28 days, the meat develops a subtle nuttiness and complexity. By 45 days, the umami deepens and the flavor becomes more concentrated. Our prime ribeye and New York strip are aged to order, so you can choose the profile you prefer. See what’s currently on the rack on our dinner menu.
What does dry-aged steak taste like?
Dry-aged beef has a more concentrated beef flavor with a slight nuttiness and hint of earthiness — the depth comes from those broken-down muscle fibers and concentrated proteins. The texture is noticeably more tender than a fresh steak. It’s different from wet-aged beef, which is sealed in plastic at the grocery store. Wet-aged tastes fresh and clean. Dry-aged tastes complex.
Why is dry-aged steak more expensive?
There are three reasons: weight loss, time, and trimming. When moisture evaporates, you lose 15 to 20 percent of the original weight, which means lower yield per animal. The aging process takes a month of cold storage, climate control, and space. Finally, we trim the outer crust before cooking, which is edible but not desirable. Only prime-grade beef is worth the investment in aging.
Can you see the dry-aging room?
Yes. The aging room is behind glass in the dining room, and it’s one of the only see-through aging programs in North Carolina. The Gangster Room seats 6 guests directly behind that glass wall, so you dine surrounded by the cuts aging on the rack. If you want to experience the full program, the Gangster Room is the place to do it.
More from Crawford Brothers
Explore more: The Gangster Room — Dining Behind the Glass · The Wine Program at Crawford Brothers · Father’s Day at Crawford Brothers · Crawford Hospitality Restaurants
