Cooking steak in the microwave is generally not the best method for achieving a well-cooked and flavorful steak. Microwaving can result in uneven cooking, and the steak may not develop the desirable sear and crust that stovetop or grill cooking provides.
However, if you need to cook a steak quickly in the microwave due to time constraints or other reasons, it's better to use a lower power setting. Cooking on high power in the microwave can lead to overcooking and uneven results.
Here's a general guideline for microwaving steak:
Season the steak: Season the steak with your preferred spices, salt, and pepper. You can also add a small amount of oil or butter to enhance the flavor and prevent the meat from becoming too dry.
Choose a microwave-safe dish: Place the steak on a microwave-safe dish with a microwave-safe cover or use a microwave-safe splatter guard to prevent messes.
Microwave on low power: Set the microwave to a low power level, around 30-50%, to minimize the risk of overcooking the steak. Lower power levels allow for more even heating and gentler cooking.
Cook in intervals: Microwave the steak in short intervals, such as 1-2 minutes at a time. After each interval, check the steak's temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking the steak, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. For rare, aim for 120°F (49°C); medium-rare, 130°F (54°C); medium, 140°F (60°C); medium-well, 150°F (66°C); well-done, 160°F (71°C).
Let it rest: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the meat retain its juices and flavors.
Again, microwaving steak is not the ideal method for cooking it, and it's unlikely to yield the same quality as grilling, pan-searing, or oven-roasting. If possible, consider using traditional cooking methods to achieve better results.