To prevent your steak from sticking to the bottom of the frying pan during stovetop cooking or broiling it in the oven, here are a few tips:
Preheat the pan: Make sure your pan is properly preheated before adding the steak. Heating the pan before cooking helps to create a non-stick surface. For stovetop cooking, preheat the pan over medium-high heat for a few minutes. If broiling in the oven, preheat the pan in the oven along with it.
Use the right type of pan: Choose a pan with good non-stick properties. Non-stick pans are specifically designed to prevent food from sticking. A cast-iron skillet can also work well if properly seasoned.
Oil the pan and not the steak: Instead of oiling the steak directly, add a small amount of oil to the preheated pan. Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat the surface evenly.
Pat the steak dry: Before adding the steak to the pan, pat it dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface of the steak can lead to sticking. Dry steak will develop a better sear.
Don't move the steak too soon: When you add the steak to the pan, allow it to sear for a few minutes without moving it. This will help the surface to develop a caramelized crust, which reduces the chances of sticking. If you try to flip or move the steak too early, it may stick to the pan.
Use proper cooking techniques: For stovetop cooking, you can try the "wiggle" technique. Gently shake the pan back and forth while the steak is cooking to prevent it from sticking. If broiling in the oven, use a broiler pan with a rack to elevate the steak, allowing the heat to circulate and prevent sticking.
Remember, even with these tips, some sticking may still occur, especially if the pan is not properly preheated or if the steak has a lot of moisture. If the steak does stick, try loosening it gently with a spatula and avoid forcefully scraping it off, as it may tear the surface of the meat.
Additionally, it's important to note that a properly seasoned and maintained cast-iron skillet can develop a natural non-stick surface over time, making it easier to prevent sticking.