Cooking a beef top round steak can be a delicious and simple process. The top round steak is a lean cut of beef that benefits from proper cooking techniques to ensure it stays tender and flavorful. Here's a basic method for cooking a beef top round steak:
Ingredients:
- Beef top round steak
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
Bring the steak to room temperature: Take the beef top round steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. Allowing it to come to room temperature will help it cook more evenly.
Season the steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices to enhance the flavor.
Preheat the cooking surface: Preheat your grill, stovetop skillet, or oven to a medium-high to high heat. If using a stovetop skillet, add a small amount of oil (olive oil or vegetable oil) to the pan and heat it until it shimmers.
Sear the steak: Place the seasoned steak on the hot cooking surface. If you're using a grill or stovetop skillet, sear each side of the steak for about 2-3 minutes to develop a nice crust.
Cook to your desired doneness: Reduce the heat to medium or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill if it's getting too hot. Continue cooking the steak to your desired level of doneness. Here are approximate cooking times for medium-rare doneness:
- 1-inch thick steak: About 4-5 minutes per side.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your steak and your preferred doneness.
Rest the steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more tender.
Slice and serve: After resting, slice the beef top round steak against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) to ensure tenderness. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Remember that the cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat source you're using. For the best results, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Aim for around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and adjust according to your preference.
Enjoy your deliciously cooked beef top round steak!