When it comes to cooking steak, achieving the perfect medium rare steak is an art form. A medium rare steak has a warm, red center and a juicy, tender texture that makes it the top choice for many steak lovers. In fact, this cooking method ensures that the meat retains its natural juices and flavor, providing a succulent bite every time. Moreover, with the right cut, tools, and technique, anyone can cook a steak that’s perfect for a special meal or a simple weeknight dinner.
If you’re ready to elevate your steak-cooking game, let’s dive into the steps of cooking the perfect medium rare steak, starting with selecting the right cut. For more detailed guidance, you can also explore this step-by-step guide on how to cook medium rare steak.
What Is Medium Rare Steak?
Medium rare steak refers to a doneness level where the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C). At this point, the steak stays warm and red in the center while being perfectly red on the outside, creating a delicious crust. Moreover, this doneness level ensures that the steak retains its tenderness and juiciness, offering the ideal balance of texture and flavor. In fact, medium rare is widely regarded as the best way to cook steak because it maximizes flavor without drying out the meat. Thus, many steak lovers consider it the perfect way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful bite.
For more information about different doneness levels, take a look at this comprehensive steak doneness guide.
Choosing the Right Cut
Selecting the right cut is absolutely crucial to cooking the perfect medium rare steak. While there are certainly many options to choose from, a few cuts stand out due to their exceptional tenderness and rich flavor. A
dditionally, these specific cuts tend to deliver the best results when cooked to medium rare, making them ideal for those who appreciate both texture and taste.
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness.
- Filet Mignon: A leaner cut that remains tender, making it ideal for medium rare cooking.
- New York Strip: Offers a balance of fat and meat for a juicy bite.
- T-bone and Porterhouse: Feature two cuts in one, combining the tenderness of filet mignon with the bold flavor of strip steak.
When choosing a cut, look for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
For additional ideas on meat dishes, you may want to check out the tomahawk steak guide or explore beef tartare preparation and safety tips.
How to Cook the Perfect Medium Rare Steak
Cooking a medium rare steak requires the right tools and technique. Then’s a step- by- step companion to help you achieve steak perfection:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Bring the steak to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Choose Your Cooking Method:
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to high heat. Sear the steak for 2- 4 minutes on each side, depending on the consistence.
- Pan-Searing Heat a cast iron skillet on high heat. Add oil and sear the steak for 2-4 minutes per side to create a golden-brown crust.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to insure the internal temperature reaches 130- 135 °F( 54- 57 °C) for medium rare. This guarantees the steak is warm in the center with a red, juicy core.
- Rest the Steak:
- Let the steak rest for 5- 10 minutes after cooking to allow the authorities to redistribute. This step is crucial for retaining the steak’s moisture and flavor.
Pro Tip: Avoid pressing down on the steak while it cooks, as this will cause the juices to escape, leading to a drier texture. You can find additional tips for grilling the perfect steak in this article from Weber.
Different Methods for Cooking
You can cook a medium steak using various methods, depending on your preference and tools:
- Grilling: Provides a smoky flavor and perfect sear. Ensure the grill is preheated to high heat for the best results.
- Pan-Searing: Offers control over the heat and creates a caramelized crust. A cast iron skillet works best for an even sear.
- Oven-Baking or Reverse Searing: Involves baking the steak at a low temperature and finishing it with a high-heat sear for maximum tenderness.
- Sous Vide: Ensures precise temperature control, cooking the steak evenly before finishing it with a quick sear.
For another type of delicious meat dish, consider trying this slow cooker BBQ beef short ribs recipe.
How to Achieve Restaurant-Quality Sear on Your Steak
The perfect sear is key to a delicious medium rare steak. Here are a few pro tips to help you achieve a restaurant-quality crust:
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for even cooking and a fantastic crust. Preheat it on high heat for a few minutes before adding the steak.
- Pat the Steak Dry: Moisture on the surface of the steak prevents proper browning. Use paper towels to pat the steak dry before seasoning and searing.
- Avoid Crowding the Pan: If cooking multiple steaks, ensure there’s enough space in the pan. Overcrowding causes the steak to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less crispy exterior.
- Press Down Gently: Place the steak in the pan and press down lightly with a spatula for better contact with the skillet, ensuring an even sear.
- Finish with Butter Basting: Just before the steak is done, add a tablespoon of butter, along with some garlic and rosemary. Spoon the melted butter over the steak to enhance the flavor and give it a golden finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though cooking steak might seem simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result:
- Overcooking: Always use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking. A temperature above 140°F will push the steak past medium rare.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Never skip the resting period, as it helps the juices settle back into the meat, keeping it tender and moist.
- Cutting Incorrectly: Always slice against the grain to ensure the steak stays tender and easy to chew.
Pairing Medium Rare Steak with Sides and Sauces
The right sides and sauces can elevate your medium rare steak meal. Consider pairing your steak with the following:
- Best Sides:
- Roasted asparagus or carrots
- Mashed potatoes
- Creamed spinach
- Baked potato
- Popular Sauces:
- Chimichurri: A fresh, herb-based sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled steak.
- Garlic Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- Béarnaise: A creamy sauce with a tangy kick that complements the steak’s richness.
You can also try some delicious sauces, as suggested in our ultimate guide to rice noodles, for an interesting twist on flavors.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
Eating steak cooked to medium rare offers nutritional benefits, including:
- Protein: Steak is a high-quality source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Iron: A great source of iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Provides B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, all of which are important for overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I know when my steak is medium without a thermometer?
You can use the touch test. A medium rare steak feels slightly soft when pressed, similar to the fleshy part of your palm beneath the thumb. - Is it safe to eat medium rare steak?
Yes, as long as the steak reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), it is safe to eat. - Can you cook a frozen steak to medium rare?
It’s possible, but thawing the steak first ensures even cooking. If cooking from frozen, expect a longer cooking time. - What happens if I accidentally overcook my steak?
If your steak goes beyond medium rare, you can still enjoy it by using a sauce to add moisture or by slicing it thinly. - Can I reheat medium rare steak?
Yes, but it’s best to reheat gently to avoid overcooking. Use a low oven temperature or sous vide method to maintain the steak’s doneness. - What’s the best way to reheat a medium rare steak? To keep it from overcooking, use a low oven (around 250°F) and warm it for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a sous vide machine.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftover steak, carefully place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, use a low oven temperature to warm it gently, or quickly sear it in a hot skillet. This way, you can maintain the steak’s juicy medium rare texture without overcooking or drying it out.
Conclusion
Cooking the perfect medium rare steak is all about carefully choosing the right cut, using a meat thermometer, and allowing the steak to rest after cooking. Additionally, whether you prefer to grill, pan-sear, or reverse sear, mastering these simple yet effective techniques will ensure you enjoy a tender and juicy steak every time. Moreover, by following these steps, you’ll consistently create a restaurant-quality steak at home. So, get your skillet or grill ready and experience the incredible flavor and texture of a perfectly cooked medium rare steak today!