Steak is one of the nation’s favorite dishes but sadly there are so many people who fail to cook these cuts properly. Now in the case of a huge steak like a T-bone or a tomahawk, this is understandable because of the size. When it comes to other cuts however, basics like sirloin, fillet and ribeye, the process is far easier than so many realize. I learned how to cook steak thanks to the brilliant Adam Seger and it is a process which I have been following ever since.
If you don’t get this right you end up creating a tough and chewy steak, or worse, a raw one. Follow these tips and make sure that the steak is delightful each and every time.
Preparing Your Steak
The first mistake which so many make is not letting it come up to room temperature before it is cooked. When the steak is in the fridge its fibers firm up and that is why so many steaks are tough. Leave your steak out for around 30/40 minutes so that it can relax before you cook it. Once the steak is almost up to room temperature, we need to season it. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to each side and a generous serving of salt and pepper.
Heating The Pan
The pan should be at its hottest when you first add the steak. As the underside sears it will seal the steak which will allow the juices inside to spread throughout the meat. Sear one side for thirty seconds and then flip the steak over and do the same. Once the second side has seared, turn the heat down to medium and leave the steak alone.
Cooking On
The best way to gauge the finish of your steak is to use the fleshy bit of your hand between thumb and forefinger. If your steak feels akin to the center this is medium, closer to the finger it is medium and then well done. This is the best way to ensure the finish. As the side of the steak begins to cook upwards, add a small nob of butter and as it melts, begin to baste the top of the steak, this means scooping the butter on to the top of the steak. This will add flavor and it will keep it juicy and soft.
Being Sure To Rest
Much like many people forget to actually let the steak warm up before cooking, they also forget to let it rest after you have finished the cook. Take your steak out of the pan and place it to one side, allowing it to rest well for 5-10 minutes. If the steak has been cooked well it will continue to spread out the juices and this will ensure a soft and tasty steak, no matter what the finish is.
Follow these basic steps and you will have a delicious steak each and every time.
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