Steak is a versatile meat that can be cooked to different levels of doneness, according to personal preferences. One of the most popular doneness levels is medium well, which is when the steak is cooked through with a small amount of pink in the center. Achieving this level of doneness requires some basic cooking skills and knowledge of the cooking time and temperature for the cut of steak you’re using.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps of how to cook a steak medium well. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right cut of steak, seasoning it, and cooking it to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find these tips helpful in achieving a perfectly cooked steak every time.
Purchasing the Right Cut of Steak
Purchasing the right cut of steak is a crucial step towards achieving a perfectly cooked medium-well steak. A medium-well steak typically has a faint pink center, and the outside is dark brown. For this particular grade of doneness, you need to choose a steak cut that is thick, preferably at least one inch or more. Thicker cuts help you achieve the ideal internal temperature without overcooking the meat’s outer layer.
When choosing the cut of steak, opt for one that does not require a long cooking time to avoid overcooking it. Some of the best cuts for medium-well steak are ribeye, sirloin, and flank. Ribeyes and sirloin steaks have a good amount of fat content that renders during cooking, while flank steaks have a thick muscle that requires a little attention during cooking. Once you’ve purchased the right cut of steak, now it’s time to proceed to the next step.
Preparing your Steak for Cooking
Before cooking a steak to a perfect medium well, you need to prepare the meat adequately. First, ensure that your steak is at room temperature. If the meat is cold, it will take more time to cook the steak from the inside out, resulting in overcooking the exterior. Therefore, remove the steak from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Next, season the meat with salt and black pepper generously. Ensure that the seasoning is covering the entire steak evenly. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or mixed herbs for added flavor. Finally, if you prefer a crisp sear on your steak, pat the surface of the steak dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This will help the steak sear instead of steaming, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak cooked to perfection.
The Best Cooking Method for Medium-Well Steak
The best cooking method for achieving a perfectly medium-well steak is a combination of searing and oven roasting. This method ensures that the steak is fully cooked through while still retaining a juicy and tender texture.
To start, heat a heavy cast iron skillet over high heat. Season your steak generously with salt and pepper and then place it in the skillet, searing both sides until a brown crust forms. Next, transfer the steak to a preheated oven and continue cooking until the center of the meat reaches 150-155°F. This can take anywhere from 5-15 minutes depending on the thickness of your steak. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature frequently to avoid overcooking your steak. Once done, let your steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it to ensure that the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
How to Determine Doneness
Determining the doneness of a steak is crucial to ensure that it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. The most common method to determine doneness is by touch. Touch the steak with your fingertip or the tip of a utensil, and compare how it feels to different parts of the palm beneath your thumb. If the steak feels similar to touching your chin, it is rare, and if it feels like touching your nose, it is medium rare. A steak that feels like touching your forehead is medium, and one that feels like touching your cheek is medium-well. Finally, if the steak feels like touching your earlobe, it is well-done.
Another popular method to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, and the temperature reading will indicate the level of doneness. For medium-well, the steak should reach an internal temperature of 150–155°F (65–69°C). Regardless of the method you choose, always allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and to ensure a more tender and flavorful steak.
Resting and Serving Your Steak
After cooking, it is crucial to let your steak rest for a few minutes. When you take it off the heat, it continues to cook and the internal temperature rises. Resting your steak helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender and juicy. For medium-well steak, you should rest it for about 5-7 minutes before slicing into it.
Once your steak has rested, it’s time to serve. Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. For a fancier presentation, you can fan the slices out on a plate or platter. Pair your steak with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad. Don’t forget to enjoy your perfectly cooked medium-well steak!
Pairing Sides and Sauces with Medium-Well Steak
Pairing sides and sauces with medium-well steak is an important part of creating a delicious meal. Since medium-well steak is cooked through, it pairs well with heartier side dishes that can hold up to its strong flavor. Some popular options include roasted or grilled vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a hearty salad.
When it comes to sauces for medium-well steak, there are a few options to consider. Classic steak sauces like béarnaise or hollandaise can work well, as can a spicy chimichurri sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s important to choose a sauce that complements the bold flavor of the steak without overpowering it. Experiment with different sides and sauces until you find the perfect combination to create a meal that is both satisfying and memorable.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Medium-Well Steak Every Time
Cooking a steak medium-well can be tricky, as it requires a careful balance between keeping the meat tender and juicy while also ensuring it is cooked thoroughly. To achieve the perfect medium-well steak every time, there are several tips and tricks to keep in mind.
Firstly, let your steak come to room temperature before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. Preheat your grill or pan to high heat to get a nice sear on the outside while maintaining the juiciness inside. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the steak from the heat when it reaches 150-155°F for medium-well. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices. Finally, adding some garlic butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor of your cooked steak and make it even more delicious.
Final Words
Getting the perfect medium-well steak can be challenging, but with the right techniques in place, it is not impossible. The most effective way to get a medium-well steak is to cook it using the oven and then sear it on the stovetop. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices and flavor. Also, invest in a meat thermometer to ensure you achieve the desired internal temperature.
Cooking the perfect medium-well steak requires practice, patience, and attention to detail. By following the recommended steps and having the right equipment, such as a cast-iron skillet and a meat thermometer, you can grill the perfect medium-well steak that’s juicy, tender, and flavorful. So, if you love steak and would like to make it at home, the tips and techniques shared in this article can be a great starting point.