The Perfect Guide to Making a Delicious Medium-Well Steak
If you’re a meat lover, then steak is probably one of your favourite dishes. And, if you’re anything like me, you’re used to having it cooked either well done or rare. You must have heard the term ‘medium well’, but if you’re unsure about what it exactly means, read on. In this article, I’m going to explain what medium well means and give you some tips on how to cook it just right.
Medium well is the perfect middle ground between having your steak well done or rare. It’s where the steak is cooked enough so that there’s hardly any pink in the middle. However, it’s not cooked so long that it’s dry and tough to chew. Finding the perfect cooking time for a medium well steak can be a bit tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get it just right. So, whether you’re having a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, here’s how to make a medium well steak that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavour.
Tips and Tricks for Making a Perfect Medium-Well Steak
1. Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
The cut of meat you choose is important for getting a juicy and tender medium-well steak. For the best results, opt for a cut of beef that has a good amount of marbling, like ribeye, sirloin, or striploin. The marbling will help keep the steak moist and flavorful during cooking.
2. Letting the Meat Come to Room Temperature
Before cooking, let the steak sit on the counter for 30 to 60 minutes to bring it to room temperature. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and doesn’t end up with a cold center.
3. Preparing Your Seasoning
Prepare your seasoning by combining salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the steak, pressing it in with your fingers.
4. Preparing the Pan
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan for cooking the steak. Place the skillet over high heat and allow it to get very hot before adding oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.
5. Cooking the Steak
Place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until a brown crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steak only once during cooking. While cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Medium-well steak should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Resting the Steak
Once the steak has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the skillet and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and keep it tender.
7. Serving Suggestions
A medium-well steak pairs well with a variety of sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad. For an extra burst of flavor, add a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to the top of the steak before serving.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Cooking the perfect medium-well steak takes practice and patience. It may take a few tries to get the timing right and the seasoning perfected, but don’t give up! With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to cook a perfect steak every time.
9. Understanding Steak Doneness
Different cuts of meat require different cooking times and will result in different levels of doneness. A rare steak will have a bright red center, while a well-done steak will be completely brown throughout. Understanding the different levels of doneness will help you achieve the perfect steak for you and your guests.
10. Experiment with Different Seasonings
While simple salt and pepper is a classic seasoning combination for steak, don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs and spices. Try adding garlic, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a unique and flavorful twist on your next medium-well steak.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
Choosing the right cut of meat is a crucial step to achieving that perfect medium well steak. A popular cut for medium well steaks is the ribeye, with its marbling that adds flavor and texture. The New York strip and sirloin are also great options. Ideally, you want a steak that is at least one inch thick to allow for proper cooking.
When selecting your steak, ensure that it is at room temperature and that it has been properly aged. Ageing allows the enzymes in the meat to break down the muscle, which makes it more tender. You can tell if your steak has been aged if it has a slightly brownish tinge.
It is also important to locate a reputable butcher that sells quality meats. Most butchers will be happy to guide you in your selection process and provide you with tips on cooking temperature and time.
Seasoning Your Steak
Seasoning your steak is crucial to enhancing its flavor profile. While there are a variety of spices and herbs you can use to season your steak, a simple approach is often the best.
A good quality sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper is all that is needed to bring out the natural flavors of the meat. If you prefer a little extra kick, try adding garlic powder or cumin.
Ensure that your steak is evenly covered with seasoning by massaging it into the meat. Let the steak sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes to allow the seasoning to permeate the meat. This will also allow your steak to reach room temperature, which will promote even cooking.
Preparing Your Steak for Cooking
Preparing your steak for cooking is an important step towards achieving the perfect medium well steak. Before cooking, ensure that your steak is patted dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Preheat your grill or pan on medium to high heat, and add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. You can use any oil of your choice, but olive oil and vegetable oil are popular options.
When cooking your steak, ensure that you do not overcrowd your cooking surface. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, which can affect the overall taste and texture of your steak.
Cooking Your Steak
When cooking your steak, there are several methods you can use to achieve that perfect medium well steak. Here are some popular cooking methods:
Grilling
Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Place your steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 150°F (66°C).
Searing and Oven Method
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet on high heat. Sear your steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your steak.
Broiling
Preheat your broiler to high. Place your steak on a broiler pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 150°F (66°C).
Regardless of your cooking method, ensure that you let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.
Checking Your Steak for Doneness
Checking your steak for doneness is crucial, as it ensures that it is cooked to your liking. Here are some tips on how to check your steak for doneness:
Touch Test
Using your index finger and your thumb, compare the firmness of the fleshy part of your hand with the steak. If the steak feels similar to the palm of your hand when your hand is relaxed, it is medium-rare. If it feels similar to the palm of your hand when it is slightly clenched, it is medium. If it feels similar to the palm of your hand when it is fully clenched, it is well done.
Meat Thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. A medium well steak should have an internal temperature of at least 150°F (66°C).
Adding Flavors to Your Steak
While a well-seasoned steak is delicious on its own, adding flavors to your steak can take it to the next level. Here are some ways to add flavor to your steak:
Compound Butter
Compound butter is a mix of butter and herbs or spices that can be used to add flavor to your steak. Simply mix softened butter with your choice of seasonings, such as garlic or thyme, to create a delicious butter that can be melted on top of your steak before serving.
Sauce
Sauce is a great way to add moisture and flavor to your steak. Popular sauces for medium well steak include mushroom sauce, bordelaise sauce, or chimichurri sauce.
Toppings
Toppings such as caramelized onions or roasted garlic can add an extra layer of flavor to your steak.
Serving Your Medium Well Steak
When serving your medium well steak, it is important to ensure that it is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Here are some tips for serving your steak:
Let It Rest
Ensure that you let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.
Slice Against the Grain
Slicing against the grain ensures that your steak is tender and easy to chew. Use a sharp knife to slice your steak into pieces, and ensure that you are slicing against the grain.
Pair It with a Side Dish
Pairing your steak with a side dish can complete your meal. Popular side dishes for medium well steak include roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or a Caesar salad.
By following these tips, you can achieve that perfect medium well steak that is full of flavor and texture. Remember to select the right cut of meat, properly season and prepare your steak, and utilize the right cooking techniques.
Choosing the Right Cooking Method for Your Medium Well Steak
When it comes to cooking a medium well steak, the right cooking method can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and temperature. Here, we’ll explore some of the most popular cooking methods for medium well steaks and how to get the best results from each.
| Cooking Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling | Imparts smoky flavor, produces charred marks, cooks evenly | Can be challenging to maintain precise temperature, may cause flare-ups |
| Broiling | Cooks quickly and efficiently, easy to control temperature | No smoky flavor, difficult to monitor doneness |
| Sauteing | Produces crispy exterior, can be done quickly | May overcook the steak, not suited for thicker cuts |
| Pan-Searing | Creates flavorful crust, easy to monitor doneness | May create smoke, can be messy |
Grilling
Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook a steak, and it’s a great option for achieving a medium well temperature. To get started, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the steak with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
If you’re using a gas grill, you can create a two-zone fire by turning on the burners on one side of the grill and leaving the other side off. This will allow you to sear the steak on the hot side of the grill and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking.
Broiling
Broiling is a quick and easy way to cook a steak, and it’s a great option if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. To broil a steak, preheat your broiler on high and place the steak on a broiler pan. Broil for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
One tip to keep in mind when broiling is to keep the steak about 6 inches away from the broiler element to prevent burning.
Sauteing
Sauteing is another quick and easy option for cooking a medium well steak. To saute a steak, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Season the steak with salt and pepper and place it in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
One thing to keep in mind when sauteing is to avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the steak to steam instead of sear.
Pan-Searing
Pan-searing is a great option for achieving a crispy exterior on your medium well steak. To pan-sear a steak, heat a skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Season the steak with salt and pepper and place it in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
One tip to keep in mind when pan-searing is to use a cast-iron skillet if possible, as it retains heat well and creates a flavorful crust on the steak.
Enjoy Your Juicy Medium-Well Steak!
Congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of cooking a medium-well steak! Don’t be scared to experiment with seasoning and sauces to add flavor to your dish. Be sure to remember to take your steak out of the fridge before cooking to make sure it reaches room temperature and allow it to rest before cutting. Thanks for taking the time to read this article. We hope you’ll try out our recipe and visit us again for more delicious home cooking tips!
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