If someone doesn't know how to cook a steak, the best tip to give them is to start with a simple and foolproof cooking method. Here's a step-by-step guide using the stovetop and oven method:
Choose a good quality steak: Look for steaks with marbling (intramuscular fat) as it adds flavor and tenderness. Ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon are popular choices.
Bring the steak to room temperature: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. You can also add a little oil to the steak for extra flavor and to help with browning.
Preheat the skillet: While the oven is preheating, heat a heavy, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
Sear the steak: Once the skillet is hot, add the steak to the pan and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms. This step helps lock in the juices and adds flavor.
Transfer to the oven: Place the skillet with the seared steak into the preheated oven and continue cooking until the desired level of doneness is reached. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Rest the steak: Once the steak reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Slice and serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain (the direction of the muscle fibers) to ensure tenderness and serve it with your favorite sides.
By following this method, even a beginner cook can achieve a deliciously cooked steak with a nice crust and perfect doneness. As they gain more confidence, they can explore other cooking techniques and seasonings to further enhance their steak-cooking skills.