Broiled steak is one of the most popular dishes around the world. The broiling technique is well-known for giving the meat a charred crust while retaining its juiciness and full flavor. However, cooking steak to your desired doneness can be a challenge for home chefs. One of the most commonly asked questions by novice cooks is, “how long does it take to broil a steak medium?”.
To help solve the mystery behind the perfect medium steak, this article will discuss the factors that affect cooking time, and provide a step-by-step guide to achieve a succulent and mouth-watering medium steak in the oven. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this article will give you all the answers to make your steak broiling experience a success.
Broiling Steak: Perfect Method for Medium Doneness
Broiling is a great cooking method for those who love their steaks cooked to medium doneness. It’s quick, easy, and results in a tender and juicy steak that will satisfy your taste buds. To broil a steak, you need to preheat your oven on the broil setting and place the steak on a sheet pan or oven-safe skillet.
When broiling a steak, you should keep a close eye on it as it can cook fairly quickly. Generally, for medium doneness, you should broil the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side, flipping it once midway. This timing may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the distance between the heat source and the steak. Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Broiling is a great way to cook steak to medium doneness with a perfect charred exterior and a juicy interior.
Steps Involved in Broiling a Steak to Medium
The most important aspect of broiling a steak to perfection is choosing the right cut of meat and preparing it properly. Start by removing the steak from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. This helps to ensure even cooking. Rub the steak with olive oil and season it with salt, pepper, and your desired spices. Preheat the broiler to high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element.
Next, place the steak on a broiler pan and place it in the oven. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then flip the steak over and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium doneness. Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the broiler’s heat output. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure a juicy and flavorful final result.
Tips to Achieve the Perfect Medium Broiled Steak
Broiling is an excellent cooking method for steaks, but getting the perfect medium degree can seem daunting. Here are some tips that will help you achieve the perfect medium broiled steak.
Firstly, ensure that your steak has a thickness of 1-inch or more. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. Secondly, broil your steak on a preheated broiler pan. The pan should be preheated for at least 10 minutes. Thirdly, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly. Fourthly, season the steak with salt and pepper before cooking. Finally, monitor the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. The thermometer should read 145°F to achieve a perfect medium broiled steak. Follow these tips, and you are sure to achieve the perfect medium broiled steak every time you attempt it.
The Best Cuts of Beef for Broiling to Medium
When it comes to broiling steak, not all cuts are created equal. Some cuts of beef are better suited for grilling or slow cooking, while others are perfect for broiling. To achieve a medium doneness, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat.
One of the best cuts of beef for broiling to medium is the Ribeye. This well-marbled steak is full of flavor, and the fat melts as it cooks, keeping the meat moist and tender. Another great option is the New York Strip, which is a leaner cut, but also has a good amount of marbling for flavor. The Tenderloin is also a popular choice for broiling, although it is a leaner cut and may require some extra attention to avoid overcooking. By selecting the right cut of beef, you can ensure that your broiled steak is cooked to perfection every time.
Broiling Time and Temperature for a Medium Steak
Broiling is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook a steak to perfection. However, achieving the ideal doneness is crucial for a delicious steak, and this depends on both time and temperature. For a medium steak, the temperature should be set at around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The cooking time for a medium steak may vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the type of steak you are cooking. As a general rule, it takes about 4-5 minutes per side to cook a steak medium. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak should read around 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it to retain its juiciness. With the right broiling time and temperature, you can enjoy a mouthwatering medium steak with a perfectly browned crust and pink center.
How to Tell If Your Steak is Medium Using a Thermometer
The most accurate way to tell if your steak is medium is by using a meat thermometer. To do this, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch any bone or fat. The temperature you are looking for is 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, there is a simple trick you can use to tell if your steak is medium. Simply press the center of the steak with your finger and compare the resistance you feel to the following:
– Rare: The center should feel soft and squishy, with little resistance.
– Medium-rare: The center should feel tender but firm, with a slight resistance.
– Medium: The center should feel firm with more resistance.
Keep in mind that this method is not as accurate as using a thermometer and may take some practice to get the hang of. Happy grilling!
Alternative Cooking Methods to Broil a Steak to Medium
If broiling a steak isn’t an option for you, there are several alternative cooking methods you can try to achieve a perfectly medium steak. Grilling is a popular alternative to broiling, and many people prefer the smoky flavor it adds to their meat. To grill a steak to medium, preheat your grill to medium heat, lightly oil the grates, and cook each side for 4-5 minutes depending on the thickness of your steak.
Pan-searing is another option that works well for thinner cuts of meat. Heat a skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place your steak in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until a nice crust forms and the interior registers at 140-145°F. Finally, sous-vide cooking, which involves immersing vacuum-sealed steak in a temperature-controlled water bath, is a great option for those who have a sous-vide machine. Cook the steak at 130°F for 1-2 hours, and then sear in a hot skillet or grill to achieve a crispy exterior.
Conclusion
Broiling a steak is a quick and easy way to prepare a juicy and flavorful meal. Knowing how long it takes to broil a steak medium is crucial for achieving the desired doneness. It can take anywhere from 6 to 12 minutes to broil a steak medium, depending on the thickness of the meat and the distance from the broiler element. It’s important to keep a close eye on the steak during the cooking process and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the internal temperature of 145°F.
In addition to timing, other factors like seasoning, marinating, and resting the steak also play a role in achieving a perfectly cooked meal. Whether you prefer a ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon, broiling is a versatile cooking method that can be used to prepare a variety of cuts. With a little practice and experimentation, you can easily master the art of broiling a steak medium and impress your family and friends with a delicious and satisfying meal.