Grilling a steak is a great way to cook this classic cut of meat. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, grilling allows you to create a delicious, flavourful crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside juicy and tender. However, grilling a steak can be tricky, and there are several factors to consider to ensure that your steak turns out perfectly every time. In this article, we'll share our expert tips and techniques for how to grill steak to perfection. We'll cover everything from choosing the right cut of meat to creating those perfect grill marks. By following our advice, you'll be able to grill a steak that's juicy, tender, and full of flavour.
Table of content
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
The first step to grilling the perfect steak is choosing the right cut of meat. Different cuts of steak have different levels of tenderness and flavour, so choosing the right cut for your tastes and cooking style is essential. Here are 3 things to keep in mind when selecting your steak:
- Look for Marbling - Marbling refers to the streaks of fat that run through a cut of meat. Look for a steak with plenty of marbling, as this will help keep the meat juicy and flavourful when cooked.
- Choose the right thickness: A steak that is too thin can be difficult to grill, as it can easily overcook. On the other hand, a steak that is too thick may take too long to cook and can be difficult to get to the desired level of doneness. Aim for a steak that is between 1 and 1.5 inches thick.
- Consider the cut: Here are some of the most popular cuts of steak and their characteristics:
Ribeye
Ribeye steak is a tender and juicy cut of meat from the cow's rib section. It has a lot of marbling, which gives it a rich and beefy flavour. Ribeye is a great choice for grilling because its high-fat content helps it stay moist and tender on the grill.
Sirloin
Sirloin steak is a leaner meat cut from the cow's rear. It has a slightly chewy texture and a more subtle flavour than other cuts of steak. Sirloin is a good choice for grilling because it cooks quickly and is less expensive than other cuts of steak.
Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a very tender and lean cut of meat from the cow's tenderloin section. It has a mild, buttery flavour and a very tender texture. Filet mignon is an excellent choice for grilling if you want a high-end steak experience.
Preparing the Steak
Once you've selected your steak, it's time to prepare it for grilling. Here's what to do:
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Take the steak out of the fridge: Before grilling, allow the steak to come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
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Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add additional seasonings if desired, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.
- Brush with oil: Brush both sides of the steak with a high-heat oil such as canola or vegetable oil. This will help prevent the steak from sticking to the grill.
Grilling the Steak
Now it's time to grill the steak. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked steak every time:
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat the grill to high heat. This will help sear the steak and create a delicious crust.
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Position the steak: Place the steak on the grill at a diagonal angle. This will help create those desirable grill marks.
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Rotate the steak: After a few minutes, use tongs to lift the steak and rotate it 90 degrees. This will create crosshatch grill marks.
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Flip the steak: Once the first side is cooked to your desired level of doneness, flip the steak and repeat the process on the other side.
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Check the Temperature: To ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Here are the temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 120-130°F- Medium rare: 130-135°F- Medium: 135-145°F- Medium well: 145-155°F- Well done: 155°F and above
- Rest the Steak: Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This will help the juices redistribute and make the steak more tender and flavourful.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Steak
Here are a few additional tips to help ensure that your steak turns out perfectly every time:
- Use a clean grill: Make sure your grill grates are clean and free of debris before cooking your steak. This will help prevent sticking and ensure that your steak cooks evenly.
- Don't pierce the steak: Avoid using a fork to flip or move the steak, as this can pierce the meat and allow juices to escape.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of your steak and ensure that it's cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steak rest: Allowing your steak to rest after cooking is essential for ensuring that it's juicy and tender.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when my steak is done?
A: The best way to know when your steak is done is to use a meat thermometer. Check the steak's internal temperature and compare it to the temperatures listed above for different levels of doneness.
Q: Should I use a gas or charcoal grill?
A: Both gas and charcoal grills can be used to grill steak. However, charcoal grills can add a smoky flavour to the steak that gas grills can't replicate.
Q: How do I prevent my steak from sticking to the grill?
A: To prevent your steak from sticking to the grill, oil the grill grates before grilling. You can use a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or a cooking spray to oil the grates.
Q: What's the best way to season a steak?
A: The simplest and most traditional way to season a steak is to use salt and pepper. You can add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Q: Do I need to let the steak rest before cutting it?
A: Yes, letting the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking is essential for ensuring that it's juicy and tender.
Q: Can I grill a frozen steak?
A: Grilling frozen steak is not recommended because it will cook unevenly and can be tough. Make sure to thaw the steak completely before grilling.
Conclusion
Grilling a steak can be a delicious and rewarding experience, but it takes some skill and practice to get it right. By following our tips and techniques for how to grill steak to perfection, you'll be well on your way to cooking juicy, flavourful steaks that your friends and family will love. Remember to choose the right cut of meat, prepare the steak properly, and use the right techniques when grilling. With a little practice, you'll be a grill master in no time!
