Anything Fun

What constitutes a good steak dinner is different for different people, but everyone still wants to know how to make a perfect steak. That is a little different for everyone, of course, but there are a few tips that can really be a help for anyone who wants to improve the quality of their beef. Here is a quick look at some of the basic methods for making a quality meal.

Step one is thinking about the cut of meat you will be using. Good beef that is produced in a humane way is getting more popular for its greater tenderness and flavor. Even traditionally tough cuts of meat from quality producers may be better than the better cuts from a large commercial producer.

The good news is that it is getting a lot easier to find a good steak, so do not be afraid of asking for it. For many people, grass fed and finished beef is tastier and has a stronger flavor, making it preferable. Just remember that beef from these producers is not as reliable or consistent as beef from the big factory farms.

Next, you will need to make sure you have the right heat source. Grilling over charcoal is one of the most popular options, but you could also just as easily use a grill pan over a gas or electric stove, a broiler, or even discover how to cook steak in the oven. The most important thing is that the heat is high.

Preparing your steak is the next step. Brush the steak with oil, not the cooking surface, to reduce the risk of smoking, and season the steak lightly. You can go minimal and use only pepper and salt, or check out one of the many great marinade recipes available. No matter what you choose, do not overdo the seasoning.

When the steak goes on the hot surface, it needs to sizzle. If it does not, your pan or grating is not hot enough. Leave a steak where you have placed it for several minutes, since it will need to be undisturbed for a while to cook most of the way. Avoid overcooking meat, however. Turn a rare steak three to four minutes into the cooking process, before that telltale red juices form on the upper surface. Turn a medium rare steak when you first see those juices and a medium well one when the juices begin to run together.

How long should you cook the other side of the steak? Two minutes less than the first side is a good standard rule that will prevent overcooking. Test the steak with an instant read thermometer, not a fork or knife, to keep the juices in.

After you have successfully cooked your meat, it is time to rest the steak. Place it fat side down and standing at ninety degrees to the pan it was cooked in, or to a plate. The pan should be away from the heat source. Propping the steak up keeps the juices in and allows them to redistribute. Steaks should be rested for half the time it took to cook them.