MASTERING THE PERFECT STEAK: A Step-by-Step Guide for Cooking Success

Cooking Steak: Tips and Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Meat

This ATB article reviews tips for cooking steak on a stove-top, in an oven, or on a BBQ.

Savor the rich flavor of Canadian beef, expertly cooked to perfection, with fresh herbs and pepper seasoning.

Preparing Your Steak

Before you start cooking, take the steak out of the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat to cook more evenly.

Season with coarse salt and pepper, or your favorite rub or spices. ATB has many seasonings available.

Cooking Times

Cooking times will vary based on the heat source, size, and thickness of the meat. You will need to experiment to find what works best for you.

Understanding Cooking Preferences

"Rare," "medium," and "well-done" are terms used to describe the level of doneness for steak.

• Rare: The steak is lightly cooked with a cool, red center and is the most tender option.

• Medium: This steak has a pink center. It’s cooked longer than rare, but still juicy.

• Well-done: The steak is fully cooked, with no pink remaining. It is usually less tender.
  

Checking Doneness

TIP: Good chefs do not use a fork or knife to check if the meat is ready. This lets the juices drain out. Instead, press the center gently with your finger while it's still on the grill. Here’s how it should feel:

• Soft: Not done yet.

• Gives a bit and springs back: Medium rare.

• Doesn't give to finger pressure: Medium or well done.

• For best results use a meat thermometer:

  o   Medium rare = 130 degrees F

  o   Medium = 140 degrees F

  o  Well-done = 160 degrees F

  
  

Cooking Steak on a Stove-Top

Cooking times will vary depending on the size and thickness of the steak and your preferences.

1. Preheat a stainless steel or cast-iron pan on medium-high heat.

2. Add avocado, canola, or another high-heat oil to coat the bottom of the pan.

3. Lay the steaks in the pan with the edge facing away from you to avoid splatter.

4. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are visibly brown, then flip and repeat.

5. Optional: Add 2 smashed garlic cloves, sprigs of thyme, rosemary, and 3 tablespoons of butter.

6. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the frothing butter over the steaks for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

7. Let the steak rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

   
   

TIP: Remember, the meat will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the heat.

Cooking Steak in an Oven

Note: Cooking times vary based on how hot your oven runs.

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

2. Place the steaks in an oven-safe pan.

3. Start with 2 to 5 minutes until the edges are brown. Flip the steaks and cook for a minimum of 3 minutes.

4. Repeat until your desired "doneness" is reached.

5. Let the steak rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

   
   

TIP: As always, the meat will cook a bit more after you take it off the heat.

Grilling Steak on a BBQ

Hot is better. Every grill is a little different.

1. Heat the grill to high. Hot is better for a good sear.

2. Grill the steak for a few minutes on one side.

3. To get cross-hatching marks, rotate the steak 90 degrees without flipping it.

4. Flip the steak over and grill for a few more minutes.

5. Let the steak rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

   
   

TIP: Don't forget, the meat continues to cook a bit even after removing it from the grill.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect steak requires attention to detail and a bit of practice. Whether you're using a stove-top, oven, or BBQ, every method can yield delicious results.

Tell us what you are planning, and let ATB help you make the right choices with a custom cut to your preferences.