Grilling a 2-inch thick steak to medium-rare on a gas grill requires careful attention to cooking time and temperature. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieve the desired doneness:
Ingredients and Tools:
- 2-inch thick steak (e.g., ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Meat thermometer
- Gas grill
Instructions:
Preheat the Gas Grill: Preheat your gas grill to high heat. Make sure to clean the grates and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
Season the Steak: Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil to help the seasoning stick. Generously season the steak with salt and black pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure more even cooking.
Set Up Two-Zone Grilling: Create two zones on the gas grill - one side with high heat for direct grilling and another side with lower heat or turned off for indirect grilling. This setup allows you to sear the steak on high heat and then finish cooking it with indirect heat.
Sear the Steak: Place the seasoned steak on the hot side of the grill. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until you achieve a nice brown crust. Use tongs to flip the steak, avoiding puncturing it to retain juices.
Move to Indirect Heat: After searing both sides, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Close the grill's lid to trap the heat and create an oven-like environment.
Monitor Internal Temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, away from the bone if it has one. Cook the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness:
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Rest the Steak: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board or plate for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain and serve it as desired. You can add a pat of butter or your favorite sauce if you like.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the gas grill's heat output, the thickness of the steak, and your desired level of doneness. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine when the steak is done to your liking.