Cooking a delicious steak can be a challenging task for many people, especially when it comes to achieving the desired level of doneness. One of the most common preferences for steak lovers is medium-well, which features a slight pink color on the inside and a crispy exterior. However, achieving the perfect medium-well steak requires knowledge of the ideal cooking time, temperature, and techniques. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how long to sear a steak on each side for medium-well doneness.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, getting the perfect doneness for your steak can make or break the overall taste and experience. With too little time on the heat, you’ll end up with a rare steak, while too much time can result in a well-done steak that tastes dry and overcooked. By following the tips in this article, you’ll be able to achieve the ideal cooking time for a delicious, juicy, and flavorful medium-well steak. From selecting the right cut of meat to using the right cooking equipment and techniques, this guide has got you covered.
Understanding steak cooking temperatures
For a steak to be perfectly cooked, it must be cooked with precision and attention to detail. Understanding steak cooking temperatures is the first step in ensuring your steak is cooked to your liking. The most important aspect of cooking steak is the internal temperature, which will determine how well done the steak is.
There are four levels of doneness for steaks: rare, medium rare, medium, and well done. To achieve medium well, the internal temperature must reach 150 to 155°F. It is important to note that temperatures will rise approximately 5°F after the steak is taken off the heat, so it is best to remove the steak from the heat source slightly before it reaches the desired temperature. A meat thermometer is an essential tool for achieving the perfect temperature for your steak. By understanding the required temperature for medium well steak, you can ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection every time.
Preparing your steak for the perfect sear
Preparing your steak for the perfect sear is essential to ensure a mouthwatering, juicy and succulent finish each time. Before you start cooking, make sure that your steak is at room temperature. This will not only help you cook it evenly but will also make sure that the steak doesn’t dry out. Pat the steak dry using a paper towel to ensure that it doesn’t retain moisture while cooking.
Season your steak liberally with salt and pepper to let the flavors seep in. Additionally, you can use other herbs and spices if you prefer a more complex flavor. Rub the spices well into the steak and let sit for 20-30 minutes before searing. Remember not to overcrowd the pan as this will result in the meat not searing correctly. Lastly, brushing your steak with a little bit of oil before cooking will help promote a perfect crust on your steak. Follow these simple steps, and you will be well on your way to cooking the perfect steak.
The technique of searing meat
The technique of searing meat is essential for achieving a delicious and perfectly cooked steak. Searing meat is the process of browning the surface of the steak at high temperatures to create a flavorful crust. This technique locks in the juices and ensures that the inside of the steak remains tender and juicy.
To properly sear a steak, start with a hot skillet or grill. Brush the steak with oil and season with salt and pepper before placing it in the skillet or on the grill. Allow the steak to cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, without moving it, to create a golden-brown crust. Be sure to resist the temptation to move the steak around while searing, as this can interfere with the development of the crust. Overall, mastering the technique of searing meat is crucial for cooking the perfect steak, and with practice, even novice cooks can achieve great results.
Factors that affect the cooking time of steak
The cooking time of steak can depend on several factors. The thickness and cut of the steak will play a role in the time needed to cook it properly. A thicker cut of steak will require more time to cook than a thinner cut, as the heat needs to penetrate the entire piece of meat. Additionally, the type of steak, such as tenderloin or ribeye, can affect the cooking time due to differences in texture and marbling.
The temperature of the steak before cooking can also play a role. Bringing the steak to room temperature prior to searing it can help it cook more evenly. Additionally, the heat source and method of cooking can affect the cooking time of the steak. An open flame grill will cook a steak faster than a pan on the stove, and the use of a sous vide machine will require a longer cooking time. Thus, it is important to consider all these factors when determining the cooking time for a specific cut and preparation of steak.
How to identify the doneness of your steak
When it comes to cooking steak, it is crucial to identify the doneness of your meat. This not only ensures that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness but also guarantees that it is safe to eat. One way to identify the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-well steak, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, and wait for the temperature to reach 150-155°F. Once you achieve this temperature, your steak is considered to be medium-well.
Another way to identify the doneness of your steak is by using the finger test. Gently press the center of the steak with your finger, and compare the resistance to the following parts of your hand: thumb (rare), pointer finger (medium-rare), middle finger (medium), ring finger (medium-well), and pinky finger (well-done). If the center of your steak gives the same resistance as your ring finger, then your steak is medium-well. By using these simple methods, you can easily identify the doneness of your steak and achieve that perfect medium-well steak every time.
Tips for achieving a perfect medium-well steak
Achieving a perfectly cooked medium-well steak requires some extra care and attention. Here are a few tips to ensure that your steak comes out just the way you like it:
Firstly, allow your steak to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the steak to cook evenly and prevent it from becoming tough or chewy. Secondly, make sure to use a high quality, heavy-bottomed pan or grill. This will help to evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking. Thirdly, when searing, only flip the steak once. This will help to preserve the juices and prevent them from escaping. Lastly, invest in a good meat thermometer so that you can accurately check the internal temperature of the steak. Aim for an internal temperature of 150-155°F for a medium-well steak.
Recommendations for cooking steak to various levels of done-ness.
When it comes to cooking steak, everyone has specific preferences. Some like it rare, others prefer it medium-rare, and some opt for well-done. Achieving the perfect level of doneness is crucial to creating a delicious steak.
For a rare steak, you should sear it on each side for about 2 minutes. Medium-rare steaks require around 3 minutes on each side, while medium steaks need around 4 minutes. For medium-well, cook each side for approximately 5 minutes. Lastly, for a well-done steak, cook it for 6 minutes on each side. Remember, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. By following these guidelines, you can create a perfectly cooked steak each time.
Verdict
Achieving the perfect medium-well steak is all about mastering the art of searing. With so many factors to consider, including the thickness of your cut, cooking surface, and preferred level of doneness, it may take some time and experimentation to get it just right. However, with practice and patience, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Remember, a medium-well steak should have a slight pink center and a charred, caramelized crust. To achieve this, sear each side for 4-5 minutes, and then finish in the oven until the desired internal temperature is reached. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to craft a juicy and delicious steak that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. So fire up the grill or your stovetop and get ready to impress with your searing skills!