Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a juicy, perfectly cooked medium rare steak. Whether you’re grilling it up in the backyard or pan-searing in the kitchen, a great steak is the perfect meal for any occasion. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps and provide tips, tricks, and recipes to make sure your medium rare steak is cooked to perfection.
Step 1: Selecting the Right Cut of Meat
The first step to a great steak is selecting the right cut of meat. Look for a cut with good marbling and avoid any cuts with excess fat. Popular cuts for medium rare steaks include filet mignon, ribeye, and sirloin. Consider the size and thickness of the cut as well since this will affect cook time.
Step 2: Prepping the Meat
After selecting your cut, it’s time to prep the meat. Trim any excess fat or silver skin, but avoid cutting into the meat itself. Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper or your choice of seasoning blend. For extra flavor, consider marinating the steak for a few hours before cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Steak
There are several ways to cook a medium rare steak, including grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. For grilling, preheat the grill to high heat and brush the grates with oil. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
For pan-searing, heat a cast iron skillet over high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare. For broiling, preheat the broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Step 4: Checking for Doneness
To ensure that your steak is cooked to the perfect medium rare level, use a meat thermometer or the touch method. For a meat thermometer, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. A reading of 130-135°F indicates a medium rare steak. For the touch method, use your finger to press the steak’s center. If it feels firm with just a little give, it’s likely medium rare.
Step 5: Resting and Slicing the Steak
After cooking, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it juicier and more flavorful. When ready to serve, slice the steak against the grain for optimal tenderness and texture.
Conclusion
Cooking a perfect medium rare steak may seem daunting, but by following these steps, you’ll be a pro in no time. Remember to select the right cut, prep it well, cook it to your desired level of doneness, and let it rest before slicing and serving. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious medium rare steak every time.
