Grilling a good steak is one of the most popular activities during summer. But there is one question that always comes up when grilling a New York Strip: how long should it be cooked? The answer is not as simple as one might think.
The thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness will affect the cooking time. If the steak is too thin or thick, it can be over or undercooked, leading to an unpleasant eating experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to grill a one-inch thick New York Strip to perfection, including tips on how to attain the perfect sear, internal temperature, and seasoning.
Understanding the New York Strip Cut
The New York Strip steak is a popular cut of beef that is known for its tender texture and rich flavor. This cut is taken from the short loin of the cow, located just behind the rib section. It is a boneless cut of steak, characterized by a strip of fat running along one side, which helps to keep the meat juicy and flavorful during cooking.
The New York Strip steak is an inch thick, making it perfect for grilling. This cut is usually marbled with fat, which makes it an ideal choice for grilling as it can be cooked to perfection without becoming dry or tough. Understanding the cut of steak and its characteristics is crucial to ensure that the steak is cooked to your preference. Knowing how long to grill a New York Strip steak can help deliver a perfect, juicy and delicious meal.
Preparing Your Grill for Cooking
Preparing your grill for cooking is a crucial step before grilling an inch thick New York strip. The first thing to do is to clean your grill grates with a wire brush to remove any leftover food particles and debris. This ensures that your meat is not contaminated and will not stick to the grates during the cooking process.
Next, oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can use a high smoke point oil such as canola or vegetable oil. Dip a folded paper towel in the oil and use tongs to rub it onto the grates. After oiling, heat the grill to high temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will create a hot, clean surface for an evenly cooked steak. Once your grill is prepped and ready, you can move on to grilling your inch thick New York strip to perfection.
How to Season and Marinate New York Strip Steaks
Seasoning and marinating a New York strip steak can take your grilling game to the next level. The right combination of flavors can enhance the natural taste of the meat and make it more tender. Before you start seasoning, pat the steak dry and then use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to season both sides of the meat. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning, as this will help to create a nice crust on the meat.
When it comes to marinating, there are endless options to choose from, depending on your personal taste preferences. Some popular marinades include teriyaki, garlic and herb, honey mustard, and balsamic vinegar. The key to getting the best results is to let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours if possible. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the steak will become. Just be sure to keep the meat refrigerated while it’s marinating. With the right seasoning and marinating technique, your New York strip steak will be the star of the BBQ.
The Perfect Grill Marks: Achieving Restaurant-Style Results
Achieving restaurant-style grill marks on your inch-thick New York strip is easier than you might think. The key to achieving perfect grill marks is to start with a clean and properly heated grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. For an added boost of flavor, you can also season your steak with salt and black pepper before grilling.
Once your grill is preheated, place your steak on the grates at a 45-degree angle to get those beautiful grill marks. After two to three minutes, rotate the steak 90 degrees to create the criss-cross pattern commonly found in restaurant-quality steaks. After another two to three minutes, flip the steak over and repeat the process on the other side. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to achieve those perfect grill marks every time, making your homemade steak dinners look and taste just like they came from a fancy steakhouse.
Checking Doneness: Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Steaks
Checking Doneness: Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Steaks
Cooking the perfect steak requires more than just grilling it for a specific amount of time. The most important aspect of cooking a steak is ensuring that it is cooked to the desired level of doneness. While everyone has their own preference, there are some general tips and tricks to help you know when your steak is perfectly cooked.
One effective way to check the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, and you can easily monitor the temperature of the meat. There are different temperature ranges for different levels of doneness, with rare being around 125-130°F, medium-rare around 130-135°F, medium around 135-145°F, and well-done around 155°F and above. Another simple technique is the touch method, where you can feel the firmness of your steak with your fingers, comparing it to different parts of your hand for reference. These methods can help you achieve the perfect steak, every time.
Resting and Serving Your New York Strip Steaks
Resting your New York strip steaks is a crucial step to ensure that they remain juicy and tender. Allow your steaks to rest for at least five minutes after grilling. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and prevent them from running out when you cut into them. To rest your steaks, remove them from the grill and place them on a plate or a cutting board. Cover the steaks loosely with foil to keep them warm.
Once the steaks have rested, it’s time to serve them. To serve your New York strip steaks, slice them against the grain into ½ inch thick slices. This will shorten the muscle fibers and make the steaks more tender. Arrange the sliced strips on a platter and serve immediately. For added flavor, serve the steaks with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad. Enjoy your perfectly grilled New York strip steaks!
Pairing Wines and Sides with Your Grilled New York Strip Steak.
Pairing Wines with Your Grilled New York Strip Steak
When it comes to pairing wine with your grilled New York strip steak, it’s important to choose a bottle that will complement the rich flavors of the steak. A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well with the bold flavors of a grilled steak. If you prefer a lighter red, Pinot Noir is also a good option. For those who prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can work well, but be sure to choose one with enough acidity to stand up to the steak.
Pairing Sides with Your Grilled New York Strip Steak
When it comes to pairing sides with your grilled New York strip steak, there are many options to choose from. A classic side dish is a baked potato, but you can also try grilled vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms. A fresh side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also be a great addition. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides – try roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables. Just be sure to choose sides that will complement the flavors of your steak and wine choices.
Final Verdict
Grilling an inch-thick New York Strip is all about timing and technique. The goal is to achieve an evenly cooked piece of meat that is juicy and tender. With a little bit of practice, anyone can master the art of grilling this delicious cut.
Remember to preheat the grill, season the steak generously, and let it rest before slicing. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium-rare, or well-done, always keep in mind the recommended cooking time. By following these tips, you’ll be able to grill the perfect inch-thick New York Strip every time. So, get your grill ready and enjoy a mouth-watering steak that is sure to impress your guests!