A medium-cooked steak typically has a pink and juicy center with a slightly more cooked exterior. Here's a general guideline for how a medium-cooked steak should look on the inside:
The outer layer: The outer layer or crust of the steak will have a nicely seared or browned appearance. It should have a flavorful and slightly caramelized surface.
The color: Moving inward from the seared exterior, you should see a pinkish-red color in the center. This indicates that the steak is cooked to medium and retains some of its natural juices.
Juiciness: A medium steak should be tender and juicy. When you cut into it, you may see some moisture or reddish juices, but it should not be excessively bloody or overly pink.
Texture: The texture of a medium-cooked steak is usually firm but still tender. It should have a slight resistance when you bite into it, but it shouldn't be tough or chewy.
Remember that cooking times can vary depending on the thickness and cut of the steak, so it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the desired level of doneness. For a medium steak, the internal temperature should be around 135-145°F (57-63°C).
It's important to note that personal preferences for steak doneness can vary, so if you prefer a different level of doneness, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly.