Image by Chad Montano

Finger steaks

Ah, finger steaks. The tantalizing treat that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. But what exactly are they? Finger steaks are a traditional dish that originates from Idaho, America. It's an original take on steak bites. They're made with thin strips of steak, usually sirloin or round, that are battered and deep fried.

Finger steaks


Finger steaks have become an Idaho classic, beloved for their crispy exterior and succulent interior. This simple yet indulgent dish is incredibly easy to make, and incredibly hard to resist. The key to perfect finger steaks is to season the steak before coating it with the batter, ensuring the inside is juicy, flavorful and full of umami. A light dusting of flour and just the right amount of seasoning will give your steak the perfect crunch and flavor.

Once the steak is battered you'll need to be quick when frying - cook it too long and the steak will be over-cooked and dry. The frying happens quickly, so make sure to watch the steaks carefully. When they’re golden brown and fragrant, they’re ready to enjoy.

Finger steaks are often served with a side of fries, salad, or coleslaw. The lightly salted flavor of the steak is complemented perfectly by these sides. Finger steaks have been gaining popularity all over America, but they remain a treasured classic in Idaho.

Whenever I need a savory treat, I love to make finger steaks. It's the perfect combination of flavor and texture. If you haven't tried them yet, what are you waiting for? Give them a go and see just how delicious finger steaks can be.

The origin of Finger steaks

"When it comes to finger-licking good cuisine, finger steaks reign supreme. Hailing from the wild wild west of the US, this unique dish has garnered a lot of admiration over the years and has frequently been featured in iconic cinematic experiences. But where did this ubiquitous dish come from?

The exact origin of finger steaks is contested by many authorities and food historians alike. While some may claim they originate from the sunny state of California or the rustic hills of Tennessee, there is no solid evidence that can confirm the area or time of origin of this yummy treat.

Current popular theories suggest that finger steaks may have originated in the 1950s or 1960s in the city of Boise, Idaho. It was at this time that an innovative restaurateur named Don Carlos Guevara came up with the concept of creating steak fingers out of leftover beef rib trimmings. He then breaded and fried them and served them as an appetizer, garnished with a tangy cocktail sauce.

Since then, finger steaks have become a beloved classic in many households, especially in the American Midwest, where the dish is particularly popular. Even today, there are many regional variations of finger steaks, such as the types made in Texas, which are slightly spicier than their Idaho counterparts.

So, if you're ever in the mood for a truly lip-smacking experience, look no further than finger steaks. They may not be the most floridly opulent dish around, but they will certainly not leave you disappointed!"

FAQs about Finger steaks

Are finger steaks an Idaho thing?

No, finger steaks are not an Idaho thing. Finger steaks were created in Portland, Oregon in the 1930s and are said to have originated from a restaurant called Foody's Drive-In. Finger steaks have become popular in other states, but they are not unique to Idaho.


How do you finger a steak?

You don't actually finger a steak, you use a knife and fork.


What cut of meat is finger steak?

Finger steak is a thin, boneless cut of beef, usually from the top sirloin. It is usually sliced into very thin strips and served as an appetizer or snack.


What state is famous for finger steaks?

Idaho is famous for Finger Steaks.


Types of Finger steaks

If you're looking for something new to add to your dinner menu, have you ever stopped to consider finger steaks? They're juicy and flavourful, and quite frankly, they're the perfect dish to impress your guests.

From their humble origins in Texas, finger steaks have become something of a delicacy in many parts of the United States and beyond. There are several different types of this succulent dish, each one distinguished by its unique preparation and ingredients. Let's take a look at the more popular varieties so you can find the one that's just right for you.

First, there's the classic Southern-style finger steak. This version is made with beef steaks that are lightly tenderised before being breaded and then fried. This makes for a juicy and flavourful cut of meat that's perfect for dipping into sauces or enjoying just as it is.

If you're after something with a bit more punch, there's the Tex-Mex finger steak. This delectable option is prepared with marinated steak strips, grilled to perfection over mesquite wood. The result is a finger steak that bursts with zesty, smoky flavour and a slightly crunchy texture.

There's also the popular Cajun finger steak. This one combines lean sirloin steak with aromatic garlic, onion and bell pepper, all sautéed until they're perfectly caramelised. The distinctive taste of the Cajun spices also comes through to create a truly delicious dish.

Finally, we have the juiciest of them all - the Hawaiian finger steak. This one takes a boneless sirloin steak, marinates it in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey and garlic for an irresistibly sweet and savoury flavour. The steak is then pan-seared and served with a range of tasty sides such as rice and vegetables.

So, there you have it - four delicious varieties of finger steak that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. From the classic Southern-style to the bold, zesty flavours of Tex-Mex and the unique sweetness of Hawaiian finger steak, there's something for everyone. So, why not give them a try and find out which one will become your new favourite?