Choosing the right cut of steak
When it comes to cooking steak, selecting the right cut of meat is just as important as nailing the cooking technique. You may want to consider the levels of tenderness and marbling before making your selection. Tenderness defines how easy it is to chew the steak while marbling indicates the distribution of fat in the meat. The fat content contributes hugely to the steak’s juiciness and flavor.
Some of the most popular steak cuts that you can choose from include:
- Filet Mignon- This cut is one of the most tender cuts of meat available and is found in the middle of the cow’s tenderloin. It is lean in texture and known for its mild flavor.
- Rib-eye steak- This cut is derived from the rib section of the cow and comes bone-in or boneless. It’s a well-marbled steak with a juicy texture, making it one of the most flavorful cuts of steak.
- New York Strip- Also known as striploin, is another popular cut that has a good amount of fat and marbling. This makes it a great option for grilling with a taste that is similar to that of the rib-eye.
- T-bone- This cut is a combination of two cuts of meat: the filet mignon and the New York strip, separated by a T-shaped bone. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy different textures and flavors from a single cut of meat.
As a rule of thumb, the more tender cuts like filet mignon will require less cooking time and lower heat as they cook more quickly while the tougher cuts like a flank steak benefit from longer cook times at a lower temperature. No matter the cut of meat you choose, remember to let it sit at room temperature for up to an hour before cooking to ensure even cooking and delicious results.
Preparing the steak for cooking
Before you start cooking your steak, it is important to prepare it properly. Firstly, take the steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. This allows it to come to room temperature, making it easier to cook evenly.
Next, you will want to season the steak. This can be done using a variety of methods, but the most common way is by simply using salt and pepper. Season the steak generously on both sides, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat to ensure it adheres properly.
For those looking to spice things up, you can create your own seasoning blend using garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin and other herbs and spices. Simply mix these together in a small bowl and rub onto the steak before cooking.
If you have a particularly thick steak, you may want to score the fat to help it render down during cooking. This will help to prevent the steak from curling up during cooking, too, but be careful not to cut too deeply into the meat.
It is also important to ensure your steak is dry before cooking. Use kitchen roll or a clean towel to pat the steak dry, removing any excess moisture. This will help to achieve a nice, crispy sear when cooking.
Finally, you may want to brush your steak with a little oil before cooking. This will help to prevent it from sticking to the grill or pan, and will also aid in achieving that delicious crust on the outside of the meat.
Methods for cooking steak
Cooking steak can be tricky, and different methods might require different cooking times and techniques. Here are three main methods for cooking steak:
Grilling the steak
The key to grilling steak is to get the grill hot. Preheat your grill on high heat for about 15 minutes before grilling the steak. Once your grill is hot, season your steak with salt and pepper and place them on the grill. Cook your steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak. Cooking times vary depending on the thickness of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The ideal temperature for a medium-rare steak is 135°F.
Searing the steak in a pan
First, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Then, season both sides of your steak with salt and pepper. Place the steak in the pan and leave it to cook for 1-2 minutes without moving it to ensure a good sear. After 2 minutes, flip the steak over and cook for another 2 minutes. Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan, let it melt and spoon it over the steak while it finishes cooking. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. A medium-rare steak should register at around 135°F.
Baking the steak
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a cast-iron skillet, heat oil over high heat. Once hot, add the steak and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Then, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for a medium-rare steak is 135°F. Once your steak has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Remember, the key to a perfectly cooked steak is monitoring the internal temperature. Practice your cooking techniques, experiment with different methods and be willing to adjust your technique until you achieve the perfect steak that you desire. Happy cooking!
Checking the temperature of the steak
Checking the temperature of your steak is crucial for a perfectly cooked piece of meat. You don’t want to end up serving an overcooked or undercooked steak to your guests. The best way to check the temperature of your steak is to use a meat thermometer.
There are different types of meat thermometers available, but the most common one is the instant-read thermometer. This type can give a quick and accurate reading in just a few seconds. Before you start cooking your steak, make sure that your meat thermometer is calibrated or properly adjusted. You can do this by placing it in a glass of ice water and verifying if the temperature reads 32°F. If it doesn’t, adjust it accordingly.
Once your steak is on the grill or pan, insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones and fat. For a rare steak, the ideal temperature is 125°F, while 135°F is for medium-rare. Medium, which has a pink center, is around 145°F, and anything above that will fall under well-done.
Remember that the internal temperature of your steak will continue to rise after removing it from the heat source, so it’s best to take it off the grill or pan a few degrees earlier than your desired temperature. Tent your cooked steak with foil and let it rest for about five minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Aside from using a meat thermometer, you can also use the touch test method. This method involves touching the steak’s surface to determine the degree of doneness. A rare steak will feel soft, a medium-rare is slightly firm, while a medium steak’s surface will have some resistance. If you press harder and feel a firm surface, then your steak is well-done. However, the touch test isn’t as precise as using a meat thermometer, especially if you’re a beginner in cooking steaks.
Regardless of which method you choose, always check the temperature of your steak and avoid poking it with a fork or knife, since this will cause the juices to escape and leave your meat dry. A well-cooked steak with a perfect temperature is sure to impress your guests and give them a sumptuous feast that they’ll remember for a long time.
Resting and serving the steak properly
After cooking your steak to perfection, it’s important to let it rest before jumping right in. Resting your steak gives it time for the juices to settle and redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful experience. Here’s how to rest your steak properly:
Step 1: Remove your steak from the heat source and place it on a cutting board. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
Step 2: Let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes. The thicker the steak, the longer it should rest, up to 10 minutes for really thick cuts.
Step 3: While your steak is resting, take this time to prepare your side dishes or sauces.
Now that your steak has rested, it’s time to serve it up! First, remove the foil and any excess juices that have accumulated on the cutting board. Here are some tips for serving your steak:
Step 1: Cut your steak against the grain into slices. This will ensure each piece is tender and easy to chew.
Step 2: Arrange the slices of steak on a platter or individual plates, and drizzle any desired sauces or accompaniments over the top.
Step 3: Garnish your steak platter with fresh herbs to add an extra pop of color and flavor. Alternatively, serve your steak alongside your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Finally, grab a knife and fork, and dig in! Enjoy the juicy, flavorful masterpiece you created.