A ribeye steak is one of the most delicious and flavorful cuts of meat. It’s no wonder that it’s a favorite among steak lovers. But cooking a ribeye steak to perfection can be a little tricky, especially if you’re not used to grilling.
The question on every grill master’s mind is, “How long do I grill a ribeye steak for medium?” The answer to this question depends on various factors, such as the thickness of the steak, the type of grill you’re using, and the ambient temperature. In this article, we’ll break down the steps you need to follow to cook a perfect ribeye steak every time.
Understanding Ribeye Steaks
Ribeye steaks are one of the most popular and sought-after types of beef cuts. This steak is taken from the rib section of the cow and is known for its rich marbling, which gives it a tender and juicy texture. The ribeye steak is known by many names, such as beauty steak, cowboy cut, and tomahawk steak, all of which represent different cuts of the ribeye.
To understand how best to grill a ribeye steak, it’s important to know the different kinds of ribeye steaks available in the market. The bone-in ribeye steak includes the rib bone and is great for those who love to chew on the bone while eating. The boneless ribeye steak is easier to cook and slice, making it a popular choice for easy to cook meals. Understanding the different kinds of ribeye steaks and their cooking requirements will help you get the perfect steak every time you grill.
Preparing The Perfect Ribeye Steak
Before you start grilling your ribeye steak, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s prepared correctly. Keep in mind that a well-prepared steak always tastes better, regardless of how you cook it. To prepare the perfect ribeye steak, there are a few essential steps you need to follow.
First, make sure that your steak is at room temperature before you cook it. This ensures that your steak is cooked evenly. Secondly, season your steak with some salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning. Don’t be too liberal with the seasoning since the steak’s natural flavor should still shine through. Finally, brush your steak with some oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill. With these basic steps in mind, you’re now prepared to grill the perfect ribeye steak that’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
There are a few essential factors that can affect the cooking time of a ribeye steak. Firstly, the thickness of the steak will affect the cooking time. A thicker steak will take longer to cook compared to a thinner one. Therefore, if you prefer a medium steak and have a thicker cut, you may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Another factor that affects the cooking time of a ribeye steak is the temperature of the grill. If you’re grilling outdoors, weather conditions can affect how long it takes to cook the meat. Windy or cooler temperatures can extend your cooking time. The internal temperature of the steak will also depend on whether you’re grilling with charcoal or gas. Knowing these factors and how they impact cooking time can help you achieve the perfect medium steak every time.
How to Season Ribeye Steaks
Seasoning a ribeye steak is crucial to enhancing the flavor of the meat. The simplest way to season a ribeye steak is to use salt and black pepper. To achieve maximum flavor, it is highly recommended to season the steak at least an hour before grilling. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor throughout the steak.
There are several ways to add extra flavors to your ribeye steak. Adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or onion powder to the salt and pepper mixture will give your steak a unique flavor and aroma. Another way to enhance the flavor of your ribeye steak is to add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mix. Whatever seasoning method you choose, ensure that it is balanced and complements the natural flavor of the ribeye steak. With the right seasoning, you can take your ribeye steak from good to great.
Tips for Grilling Medium Ribeye Steaks Perfectly
Grilling a medium ribeye steak to perfection takes a bit of skill and practice, but the results are well worth the effort. One of the most important things to remember is to let your steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Another tip for grilling medium ribeye steaks perfectly is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For a medium steak, you will want it to reach an internal temperature of 145°F. To achieve the perfect sear on your ribeye steak, preheat your grill to high heat for at least 10 minutes before adding the meat. Finally, be sure to season your steak generously with salt and pepper before placing it on the grill. With these tips in mind, you can create a mouthwatering medium ribeye steak that is sure to impress your guests.
Checking for Doneness
Checking for Doneness:
While grilling your ribeye steak, it is essential to ensure that it is cooked to your preferred doneness. A meat thermometer is an ideal tool for checking the internal temperature of your steak. For medium doneness, it should read between 135-140°F. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching bone or gristle. Remember to remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before checking the temperature to allow the juices to redistribute.
Apart from using a meat thermometer, there are other ways to check for doneness. Some people prefer the touch method, which involves touching the steak and comparing the firmness with different parts of their hand to judge the degree of doneness. Others prefer the visual method, which involves cutting into the steak and looking at the color of the meat’s center. For medium, the steak should have a warm pink center. Whatever method you choose to check for doneness, it is crucial to ensure that your ribeye steak is cooked to perfection.
Serving & Enjoying The Perfectly Cooked Ribeye Steak
After all the hard work and effort put into grilling the perfect ribeye steak, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The first step in serving the perfect ribeye steak is to let it rest for about five minutes after grilling. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice and serve. It’s important to slice against the grain to ensure a tender bite every time. You can also add a dollop of flavorful compound butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the steak. Pair it with your favorite side dish and a glass of red wine, and enjoy your perfectly cooked ribeye steak.
Final Verdict
Cooking a perfect ribeye steak grilled to medium doneness is an art that requires attention to detail. The temperature and thickness of the steak play a crucial role in determining the cooking time. While there is no hard and fast rule, a general guideline is to grill the steak on high heat for 4-5 minutes per side and then let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. With the right technique and a bit of practice, you can grill a mouth-watering ribeye steak that is perfectly cooked to your liking.
In summary, grilling a ribeye steak to medium doneness requires precision and patience. It is important to let the steak rest before slicing it to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent it from becoming chewy. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked ribeye steak that is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. So, grab your grill and let the sizzling sound of the steak on the hot grates take your taste buds on a delicious journey.