Cook That Steak: Mastering Medium-Rare on the Stove

How Long Do You Cook a Medium-Rare Steak on the Stove?

Grilling up a steak is a classic culinary feat, but achieving the perfect doneness can be tricky. Medium-rare is a popular choice, offering a juicy, flavorful steak with a tender pink center. Cooking a medium-rare steak on the stove requires careful attention to heat and timing.

1. Choosing the Right Steak

The first step to cooking a great medium-rare steak is selecting the right cut of meat. Some popular choices include:

• Strip steak: Also known as a New York strip or Kansas City strip, this cut is lean and flavorful with a good amount of marbling.
• Ribeye steak: This cut is known for its rich flavor and marbling, which results in a juicy, tender steak.
• Tenderloin steak: The most tender cut of steak, the tenderloin is also known as a filet mignon. It is lean and mild in flavor.

2. Preparing the Steak

Once you have chosen your steak, it's time to prepare it for cooking.

• Season the steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
• Bring the steak to room temperature: This will help the steak cook more evenly. Let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes before cooking.

3. Cooking the Steak

Now it's time to cook the steak.

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat: Add a little oil or butter to the skillet.
• Sear the steak: Place the steak in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low: Continue cooking the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak reads 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the steak rest: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Additional Tips for Cooking a Perfect Medium-Rare Steak on the Stove

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet: This will help to distribute heat evenly and prevent the steak from sticking.
• Don't overcrowd the skillet: If you are cooking multiple steaks, make sure to leave enough space between them so that they can cook evenly.

• Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure that the steak is cooked to the desired doneness.
• Let the steak rest before slicing and serving: This will help the juices redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Conclusion

Cooking a medium-rare steak on the stove is a relatively simple process, but it does require careful attention to heat and timing. By following these steps, you can cook a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak that is juicy, flavorful, and tender.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to season a steak before cooking?

Salt and pepper are the classic steak seasonings, but you can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.

2. How long should I cook a steak for medium-rare?

Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak reads 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. How can I tell if a steak is cooked to medium-rare?

The best way to tell if a steak is cooked to medium-rare is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and cook until it reads 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. What is the best way to rest a steak?

Place the steak on a cutting board or plate and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with a medium-rare steak?

Some good side dishes to serve with a medium-rare steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

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