Steak is a beloved dish around the world, thanks to its versatility and personalisation. There are countless ways to cook a steak, some people love a well-cooked steak whereas others prefer their’s tender. If you’re struggling to understand the difference between the cuts and cooks, don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll talk you through everything you need to prepare a delicious steak for whomever you’re serving.

Choosing The Right Cut

The foundation of a great steak is the cut. If you’re looking to cook steak at home, or you’re on a bit of a budget, the Sirloin is a fan favourite. It’s full of flavour without breaking the bank. The Skirt Steak cut can also be used when you’re looking to make a smaller piece of meat go a long way. Skirt steak is tough but flavourful and often used for fajitas, tacos, and other sharing meals.

For higher-end restaurants, your options are limitless. The New York Strik is a bit pricier but is well known for being flavourful and lean. Filter Mignon is tender, delicate and perfect for making a striking impression on your guests. A Porterhouse is also great for those who want a bigger meal, these cuts come with both filet and strip sections.

Sizzling Steak Secrets

Now that you’ve chosen the right cut for your preferred taste, let’s get to cooking! It’s important that you let your steak rest before cooking. Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Then, pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper and other seasonings you desire.

While each guest will prefer a different cooking preference, the general rules and timings are as follows. For a blue cook, the meat should be coomed for 1 minute each side. For rare, it should be 2.5 minutes on each side. Medium rare should be cooked 3-4 minutes on each side. Medium should be 4 minutes on each side. Medium well should be cooked for 5 minutes on each side, and well done should be 6-7 minutes on each side.

Methods For Different Cooks

To make sure the steak is cooked perfectly, there are 2 methods that help you to know what the cut should feel like. The first method is using the palm of your hand.

1. Hold your hand out, palm up. The base of your hand by the base of your thumb replicates the feeling of raw meat.

2. Make an “OK” sign with your hand by touching your forefinger and thumb. Feel the same part of your hand, this is the feeling of rare meat.

3. Move your second finger to your thumb, the pad of your hand should get firmer. The middle finger to the tip of your thumb is what a medium-rare steak feels like.

4. Move your ring finger to your thumb. This is what a medium-well steak feels like.

5. Finally, move your pinky finger to your thumb. This is what a well-done steak feels like.

The second method is similar but uses your fist as a measurement.

1. Make a relaxed fist. The area of your hand between your thumb and forefinger is what a rare steak feels like.
2. Slightly clench your fist. This is what a medium steak feels like.
3. Finally, clench your fist tightly. The area feels like a well-done steak.

Different Cooking Methods

Pan-Seared Steak

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it's very hot.
2. Sear the Steak: Add the steak to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Sear for a few more minutes if necessary, depending on the desired outcome. Use a steak weight if necessary to achieve even searing.
3. Rest: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving.

Grilled Steak

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For professionals, using a Lincat grill will result in evenly cooked steak.
2. Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Sear for a few more minutes on each side if the guests ask for a more well-done finish. Use tongs to flip your steak.
3. Rest: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving.

Oven-Roasted Steak

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Sear the Steak: Sear the steak in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side. Sear for a few more minutes if necessary, depending on the desired outcome. Use a turner to ensure the meat can be turned easily and quickly.
3. Roast: Transfer the steak to a preheated oven and roast for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare.
4. Rest: Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Steak

• Don't Overcook: A steak is best when it's slightly pink in the centre (if that’s what you or your guests prefer). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to your desired temperature.
• Let it Rest: Resting the steak after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.
• Use a Good-Quality Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet will help you achieve a perfect sear.
• Season Generously: Don't be afraid to use plenty of salt and pepper.
• Don’t Cross Contaminate: Use colour-coded chopping boards and chef’s knives when cutting the steak to prevent any food contamination. Red should be used for raw meat before cooking and yellow for cooked meat.
  Further information on colour-coded chopping boards can be found here.

Serve The Perfect Steak With Cooksmill

Steaks are underappreciated and sometimes overcomplicated, but here at Cooksmill, we make it easy to shop for everything you need. Enjoy free delivery on larger orders over £60 excluding VAT. Whether you’re a steak enjoyer at home, or in restaurants, we have the perfect items that result in a delicious cut every time.