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Making a delicious steak is easier than you would imagine, but it requires practice and proper timing. Considering the disparity between cuts of steak, cooking surfaces and grills, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to grilling. Meat density and texture change when subjected to heat and only a thermometer can tell you when the steak is done. Follow these tips to get a correctly done steak.
You will need:
- Steak
- Hot grill
- Salt and other seasonings
- Thermometer
- Timer
Tip #1: Seasoning early pays off
If you have heard the warning that you shouldn’t season or salt the meat before time because seasonings draw out moisture, don’t believe that. A good steak needs just enough seasoning, which should be done a while before grilling. The moment you place your meat on the hot grate, the proteins and seasonings combine and create a delicious crust. Any moisture you might lose will be on account of that crust.
Tip #2: Prepare the grill
To get the best result, you should clean the grates beforehand. It is advisable that you grill over red hot coals and not on a direct flame. This ensures that the cooking is intense and consistent. Hot coals can maintain high temperatures for an extended period, and they give hard chard crust.
Tip #3: Add wood to coals for additional flavor
Wood, especially cherry, gives a great fruity aroma. To get the great flavor that you want, consider soaking a few wood pieces in fresh herbs to finish the meat. The steak will take in the sweet flavor. If you like, you may use whisky or wine to soak the wood pieces before throwing them to the fire.
Tip #4 – Grill over gradient heat
Before you start cooking the steak, ensure that you have a gradient of temperature. It means placing the grates at a slanted position. On the high end, place very hot coal, and reduce the coals’ heat as you get to the low end. Prepare the food that requires a high temperature before the meals that require low heat. Also, begin by cooking the meat on high heat to sear in all the flavor and juices. Once the chicken is cooked, place it on the medium heat.
Tip #5 – Time and temperature are paramount
Before you start grilling, determine the level of doneness that you prefer. Ensure you monitor the temperature and cooking time of the steak to avoid overcooking. Have a good thermometer at hand, such as an instant-read thermometer.
Here is an ideal schedule you can follow:
Beef
- Rare – 40° Celsius
- Medium-Rare – 55° Celsius
- Medium – 60° Celsius
- Medium-Well – 65° Celsius
- Well-Done – 70° Celsius
Poultry
- White Meat – 70° Celsius
- Dark Meat – 75° Celsius
Lamb
- Medium-Rare – 55° Celsius
- Medium – 60° Celsius
- Medium-Well – 65° Celsius
- Well-Done – 70° Celsius
Pork
- Medium – 65° Celsius
- Well-Done – 70° Celsius
With your steak grilled, you need to remove it from the heat and place it on a plate. Give it some time to rest before you serve. It will allow it to relax and redistribute the juices and heat throughout the fibers.
