Cooking a steak in an electric skillet is a great way to achieve a delicious and evenly cooked piece of meat. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you cook a steak using an electric skillet:
Ingredients:
- Steak (your choice of cut)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
Equipment:
- Electric skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Preparation:
- Take the steak out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This helps ensure more even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Dry meat will sear better.
Seasoning:
- Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings or herbs according to your preference.
Preheat the electric skillet:
- Set your electric skillet to medium-high or high heat (around 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 204°C). Allow the skillet to preheat for a few minutes until it's hot.
Add oil:
- Add a small amount of oil (olive oil or vegetable oil) to the skillet and spread it around to coat the surface evenly. The oil will help prevent sticking and aid in browning.
Searing the steak:
- Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound when the meat touches the surface; this is a good sign that it's searing properly.
- Let the steak cook without moving it for a few minutes (usually 3-4 minutes) on each side. This will create a nice crust and sear on the surface.
Checking the internal temperature:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For your desired doneness, refer to the following temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium-well: 155°F (68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) or above
Resting the steak:
- Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board or a plate. Let it rest for a few minutes (about 5 minutes) before slicing or serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Serve and enjoy:
- Slice the steak against the grain (the direction of the muscle fibers) to ensure tenderness, and then serve it with your favorite sides or sauces.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. It's essential to use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure a perfectly cooked steak.