Cooking a steak to the perfect medium well can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to cooking. The stove can be an intimidating place, with its swirling flames and sizzling pans, but with the right techniques and knowledge, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that will impress even the most discerning palates. In this article, we will delve into the world of steak cooking, exploring the techniques, tips, and tricks that will help you cook a steak to medium well perfection on the stove.
Understanding Steak Cooking Times
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking a steak on the stove, it’s essential to understand the different levels of doneness and how they affect the cooking time. Medium well is a popular choice for steak lovers, as it offers a balance between the tenderness of medium rare and the safety of well done. Medium well steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 150°F to 155°F (65°C to 68°C), which means that the meat will be slightly firmer to the touch than medium rare, but still juicy and flavorful.
The Importance of Steak Thickness
When it comes to cooking a steak on the stove, the thickness of the steak is a crucial factor in determining the cooking time. Thicker steaks will take longer to cook than thinner ones, as there is more meat to heat through. As a general rule, steaks that are less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick will cook more quickly than those that are over 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. It’s essential to take the thickness of your steak into account when cooking, as this will help you achieve the perfect level of doneness.
Measuring Steak Thickness
Measuring the thickness of your steak is a simple process that requires a ruler or a meat thermometer with a built-in thickness gauge. To measure the thickness of your steak, place the ruler or thermometer alongside the steak, making sure to measure the thickest part of the meat. This will give you an accurate reading of the steak’s thickness, allowing you to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Cooking a Steak on the Stove
Now that we’ve covered the basics of steak cooking times and thickness, it’s time to move on to the fun part – cooking the steak on the stove. Cooking a steak on the stove requires a combination of heat, oil, and timing, as well as a bit of finesse and patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking a steak on the stove:
To cook a steak on the stove, you will need a few basic pieces of equipment, including a skillet or frying pan, a stovetop, and a pair of tongs or a spatula. You will also need some oil, such as olive or vegetable oil, to prevent the steak from sticking to the pan. Once you have your equipment and ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Preheating the Pan
Preheating the pan is a crucial step in cooking a steak on the stove. To preheat the pan, place it over high heat and let it heat up for 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches a temperature of 400°F to 500°F (200°C to 260°C). You can test the temperature of the pan by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is ready.
Adding Oil and Steak
Once the pan is preheated, it’s time to add the oil and steak. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, just enough to coat the bottom, and then carefully place the steak in the pan. Make sure to place the steak away from you, as the oil may splatter when it hits the pan.
Cooking Times for Medium Well Steak
Now that we’ve covered the basics of cooking a steak on the stove, it’s time to talk about cooking times. The cooking time for a medium well steak will depend on the thickness of the steak, as well as the heat of the pan. As a general rule, medium well steak will take around 5-7 minutes per side to cook, depending on the thickness of the steak. Here is a rough guide to cooking times for medium well steak:
| Steak Thickness | Cooking Time per Side |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) | 3-5 minutes |
| 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) | 5-7 minutes |
| Over 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) | 7-10 minutes |
Using a Meat Thermometer
While cooking times can be a useful guide, the best way to ensure that your steak is cooked to medium well is to use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer will give you an accurate reading of the internal temperature of the steak, allowing you to cook it to the perfect level of doneness. To use a meat thermometer, simply insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch any bones or fat. The thermometer will give you a reading of the internal temperature, which you can use to determine the level of doneness.
Letting the Steak Rest
Once the steak is cooked to medium well, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Letting the steak rest allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. To let the steak rest, simply remove it from the pan and place it on a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak, before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
Cooking a steak to medium well on the stove requires a combination of heat, oil, and timing, as well as a bit of finesse and patience. By understanding the different levels of doneness, the importance of steak thickness, and the basics of cooking a steak on the stove, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that will impress even the most discerning palates. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to the perfect level of doneness, and don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. With practice and patience, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time, and enjoying perfectly cooked steaks that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
What is the ideal steak cut for cooking medium well on the stove?
The ideal steak cut for cooking medium well on the stove is a matter of personal preference, but some cuts are better suited for this method than others. For a medium well steak, you want a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick, as this will allow for even cooking and a nice crust to form on the outside. Ribeye, sirloin, and strip loin are all popular cuts that work well for cooking medium well on the stove. These cuts have a good balance of marbling, which will add flavor and tenderness to the steak.
When selecting a steak, look for one that has a good balance of marbling throughout. Marbling refers to the streaks of fat that are dispersed throughout the meat, and it is what gives the steak its tenderness and flavor. A steak with too little marbling may become dry and tough when cooked to medium well, while a steak with too much marbling may become too fatty and overpowering. By choosing a steak with the right amount of marbling, you can achieve a delicious and tender medium well steak on the stove.
How do I prepare my steak for cooking on the stove?
To prepare your steak for cooking on the stove, you will need to bring it to room temperature and season it with your desired seasonings. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from cooking too quickly on the outside. While the steak is coming to room temperature, you can season it with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
Once the steak is seasoned, you can add any additional flavorings you like, such as a marinade or a rub. If using a marinade, be sure to pat the steak dry with a paper towel before cooking to remove excess moisture. If using a rub, be sure to apply it evenly to both sides of the steak. By taking the time to properly prepare your steak, you can ensure that it cooks evenly and has a rich, flavorful taste. This will help you achieve a perfect medium well steak on the stove.
What type of pan is best for cooking a steak on the stove?
The best type of pan for cooking a steak on the stove is a skillet or sauté pan that is made of a heat-conductive material, such as cast iron or stainless steel. These types of pans are ideal for cooking steak because they can achieve high temperatures and distribute heat evenly. A cast iron skillet is particularly well-suited for cooking steak because it can retain heat well and achieve a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
When choosing a pan, be sure to select one that is large enough to hold the steak with plenty of room to spare. You want to be able to cook the steak without overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly. Additionally, be sure to preheat the pan before adding the steak, as this will help to achieve a nice crust on the outside. By using the right type of pan and preheating it properly, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium well steak on the stove.
How do I achieve a nice crust on my steak when cooking on the stove?
To achieve a nice crust on your steak when cooking on the stove, you will need to use a combination of high heat and the right cooking oil. Preheat your pan over high heat until it is almost smoking, then add a small amount of oil to the pan. You can use any type of oil you like, but a neutral-tasting oil such as canola or vegetable oil works well. Once the oil is hot, add the steak to the pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
The key to achieving a nice crust is to not stir the steak too much, as this can prevent it from forming a crust. Instead, let the steak cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side, then flip it and repeat the process. By using high heat and the right cooking oil, you can achieve a nice crust on your steak that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This will help to add texture and flavor to your medium well steak, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
How long do I need to cook my steak to achieve medium well on the stove?
The cooking time for a medium well steak on the stove will depend on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your stove. As a general rule, you can cook a 1-1.5 inch thick steak to medium well in 8-12 minutes, depending on the heat of your stove. To cook the steak, sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking to the desired level of doneness.
To check the doneness of the steak, you can use a meat thermometer or the finger test. For medium well, the internal temperature of the steak should be between 150-155°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the finger test, which involves pressing the steak gently with your finger. A medium well steak should feel firm to the touch, but still yielding to pressure. By cooking the steak to the right temperature and texture, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium well steak on the stove.
How do I let my steak rest after cooking, and why is this important?
To let your steak rest after cooking, remove it from the heat and place it on a plate or cutting board. Tent the steak with foil to keep it warm, then let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This is an important step, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more tender and flavorful. When you cook a steak, the juices are pushed to the surface of the meat, and if you slice it too soon, these juices will be lost.
By letting the steak rest, you can allow the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. This is especially important for a medium well steak, as it can be prone to drying out if not cooked and rested properly. By taking the time to let the steak rest, you can ensure that it is juicy and flavorful, with a tender texture that is sure to please. This will help to make your medium well steak a delicious and satisfying meal, and it is an important step in cooking the perfect steak on the stove.