Cooking the perfect steak is an art that combines science, technique and quality ingredients. If you're looking to impress at your next dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, follow this guide to the perfect steak. Let's take a look at the detailed step-by-step process to get delicious, restaurant-quality steak at home:
Step 1:
Choose the right steak
Choosing a good steak is the first step toward perfection. Here are some popular options:
Ribeye: Rich and flavorful, with rich marbling.
Filet: Leaner than ribeye but still very flavorful; A little softer but also less expensive.
Filet Mignon (Filet Mignon): Extremely tender and lean, with a mild flavor.
T-bone/Porterhouse: Offering the best of both worlds, with a tenderloin and a tenderloin separated by the bone.
Step 2:
Bring steak to room temperature
About an hour before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
Step 3:
Steak seasoning
Season the steak generously with kosher salt or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a little garlic powder or mixed herbs for added flavor. Do this about 40 to 50 minutes before starting to cook, allowing the salt to penetrate and season the meat thoroughly.
Step 4:
Preheat your cooking surface
Preheat a pan (preferably a cast iron pan) or grill over high heat. You want it hot to get a nice crust on your steak.
Step 5:
Add oil
Just before adding the steak, add an oil with a high smoke point (such as canola oil, grapeseed oil, or avocado oil) to the pan and let it heat for a moment. Step 6:
Stir-fry steak
Place the steak in a hot pan or on the grill. Do not move the steak once it is in the pan. Let sear for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness.
Step 7:
Add some aromatics
During the last minute of cooking, add a few tablespoons of butter, a few cloves of garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pan. Use a spoon to spread fragrant butter on the steak. Step 8:
Check out the cooking
To check the doneness of the meat, use a meat thermometer. Here are the temperatures you should aim for:
Rare: 120-130°F (49-55°C)
Medium rare: 130-135°F (55-57°C)
Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
Medium well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
Well Done: 155°F+ (68°C+)
Step 9:
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, keeping it moist.
Step 10:
Slice and serve
After resting, cut the steak by grain into thick slices. Serve it with your favorite dishes and enjoy the fruit of your labor: steak cooked to perfection. Additional tips
Sharpen your knives:
A sharp knife will make cutting your steak much easier.
Quality issues:
Invest in a good quality steak; it really makes a difference in the results.
Customize your steak:
Feel free to adjust seasonings and side dishes to suit your personal preferences.
Cooking the perfect steak is a journey of both skill and flavor. Every step, from choosing the best cut to serving it properly, contributes to the perfect steak experience. With practice, you will find the perfect method that suits your preferences. Good food !