Grilling the perfect medium rare steak is an art form that requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the meat you are cooking. When it comes to cooking steak, getting it just right is key. Medium rare is widely considered to be the best temperature for steak, as it maximizes tenderness and flavor while minimizing the risk of overcooking.
If you’re looking to up your grill game and master the art of cooking the perfect medium rare steak, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to grill a steak to medium rare perfection, from choosing the right cut to mastering the grill techniques that will take your steak from good to great. So grab your tongs and let’s get started.
Choosing the Best Cut of Steak
Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial in grilling the perfect medium-rare steak. Not all steaks are created equal, and each cut has its own unique characteristics that affect its flavor, tenderness, and cooking time.
The most popular cuts for grilling are ribeye, sirloin, New York strip, and filet mignon. Ribeye is known for its rich marbling and tenderness, while sirloin is leaner with a beefy flavor. New York strip offers a balance of tenderness and flavor, and filet mignon is the most tender but also the most expensive cut. It is important to choose a cut that meets your preferences and budget, and to ensure the steak has good marbling throughout for optimal flavor and tenderness.
Preparing the Steak for Grilling
Preparing the steak for grilling is the essential step to ensuring that your steak is cooked the way you desire it to be. The first thing you need to do is remove the steak from the fridge at least 30 minutes before grilling. This way, it reaches room temperature, and it will cook evenly. While waiting for the steak, sprinkle a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper on each side. Applying salt will penetrate and break down the protein structure, making it easier for the steak to cook.
Once the grill is sufficiently heated, brush the grates with a high smoke point oil such as vegetable oil or canola. This prevents the steak from sticking to the grates, making the flip easier once it’s time to turn it over. When placing the steak on the grill, make sure it is at a 45-degree angle to the grates. Allow it to sear for roughly two to three minutes before flipping. Remember, the perfect medium-rare steak should have a seared, caramelized crust on the outside and pinkish-red center. Once done, remove the steak from the grill, let it rest for five minutes to allow the juices to distribute evenly before slicing it up.
Tips for Achieving the Ideal Grilling Temperature
Achieving the perfect grilling temperature is crucial for cooking a steak medium rare to perfection. The ideal temperature for grilling a steak medium rare is 130-135°F. It is essential to preheat your grill to this temperature before starting to cook.
One essential tip for achieving the perfect grilling temperature is to use a meat thermometer to measure the meat’s internal temperature. Ensure that your thermometer is calibrated accurately and insert it into the thickest part of the steak after one minute of cooking. Another important tip is to avoid cooking your steak over direct heat. Instead, use indirect heat or a two-zone heat setup to prevent the steak from cooking too quickly and becoming overdone. By following these tips, you can achieve the ideal grilling temperature and cook a delicious medium rare steak every time.
Timing and Techniques for Flipping the Steak
Timing and Techniques for Flipping the Steak:
Flipping the steak at the right time is critical to achieving the perfect medium-rare steak. Wait until the juices of the steak are pooling on the surface of the steak, which indicates that the meat has browned on one side, before you flip. Once you flip the steak, avoid the temptation to press down on it with a spatula as this can squeeze out the juices and dry it out. With thicker cuts of steak, you can flip it over two to three times during cooking to ensure even cooking, but for thinner cuts, one flip will suffice.
When it comes to the techniques for flipping, use tongs instead of a fork to turn the steak over as this will prevent losing any of the precious juices. Slide the tongs carefully underneath and lift the meat to turn it over, making sure to avoid scraping off the seasoning. Lastly, once you’ve finished grilling the steak, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and creates a perfectly tender and juicy steak.
Using a Thermometer to Achieve the Perfect Medium Rare
One of the best ways to ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. There are two types of thermometers commonly used for grilling, namely, instant-read and leave-in thermometers. An instant-read thermometer, as the name implies can give an accurate temperature reading almost instantly when inserted into the meat. On the other hand, the leave-in thermometer is designed to remain in the meat while it cooks, and give a continuous reading.
For the perfect medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be between 130-135°F (55-57°C). To get the right temperature, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones or fat. Make sure not to touch the bone as it can give inaccurate readings. Once the thermometer has been inserted, read the temperature and adjust accordingly. If the steak is not yet at the desired temperature, continue to grill for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature. By using a thermometer, you can ensure that your steak is cooked to the perfect temperature every single time.
Resting Period and Final Touches
After grilling your steak to medium rare perfection, it’s important to let it rest before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Ideally, you should let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness. During this time, cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Once the resting period is over, it’s time to add the final touches. You can brush the steak with a garlic butter or herb-infused oil for some extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some coarse sea salt or cracked black pepper on top. If you want to take things a step further, you can slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for easier eating. With these simple steps, your medium rare steak will be juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions for Your Perfect Steak
When it comes to serving your perfect medium rare steak, the first thing to consider is presentation. A great way to showcase your efforts is to slice the steak against the grain and arrange it on a platter or individual plates. You can also add a sprig of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, or a pat of herb butter for added flavor and flair.
As for pairing suggestions, a classic pairing with a steak is a robust red wine, such as a cabernet sauvignon or a malbec. Alternatively, a hoppy IPA or rich porter can also complement the flavors of a steak. And don’t forget about the sides – classic steakhouse sides like asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, and creamed spinach are always crowd-pleasers. With the right presentation and pairings, your perfectly grilled medium rare steak is sure to be a hit.
Conclusion
Grilling the perfect medium rare steak requires a combination of factors, including selecting the right cut of meat, preparing it properly, and understanding the nuances of grilling. A high-quality cut with good marbling will ensure a juicy and tender steak, while properly seasoning and resting the meat will enhance its flavor and prevent it from becoming tough. Additionally, understanding the optimal grilling time and temperature for the cut of meat in question will ensure that the interior is cooked to a perfect medium rare.
While grilling the perfect medium rare steak may take some practice and experimentation, the results are well worth the effort. A perfectly cooked steak can be a delicious centerpiece for a meal and a source of pride for any home cook. With the right knowledge and attention to detail, anyone can master the art of grilling a steak to perfection. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite cut of meat, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked steak.