To prevent your steak from sticking to the bottom of the frying pan during stovetop cooking or broiling it in the oven, follow these tips:
1. Choose the right pan: For stovetop cooking, use a heavy-bottomed pan like a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan. These types of pans tend to have better heat distribution and retention, which can help prevent hotspots and reduce the chances of sticking.
2. Preheat the pan: Before adding the steak, make sure the pan is properly preheated. Heat the pan over medium-high to high heat for a few minutes until it's hot but not smoking. A hot pan helps to sear the steak quickly, forming a crust that reduces sticking.
3. Pat the steak dry: Before cooking, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. A dry surface on the steak promotes better browning and reduces the likelihood of sticking.
4. Oil the steak, not the pan: Instead of oiling the pan directly, lightly brush or rub a thin layer of oil (preferably with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil) directly onto the steak's surface. This allows for better control of the amount of oil used and reduces the risk of the oil smoking and creating undesirable flavors.
5. Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking multiple steaks, make sure there is enough space between each piece in the pan. Overcrowding can cause the temperature to drop too much, leading to uneven cooking and increased sticking.
6. Avoid moving the steak too soon: When you first place the steak in the pan, resist the temptation to move or flip it immediately. Allow the steak to sear for a few minutes on one side until it forms a nice crust. Moving it too early can cause it to stick and tear.
7. Use proper timing: Follow a proper cooking time for your steak based on its thickness and desired doneness. Overcooking the steak can lead to more sticking, as the meat can release more moisture.
8. Use a meat thermometer: Using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak can help you achieve the desired level of doneness accurately without the need to cut into the meat repeatedly.
If you're broiling the steak in the oven, similar principles apply. Use a broiler pan or a rack set inside a baking sheet to elevate the steak and allow air to circulate around it, promoting even cooking and preventing sticking. Preheat the broiler before placing the steak, and avoid moving it too much during cooking.
By following these tips, you can help prevent your steak from sticking and achieve a delicious, perfectly cooked result whether you're using stovetop cooking or broiling in the oven.