Cooking a steak to perfection is a culinary skill that many aspire to master. One of the sought-after doneness levels is “medium well,” which strikes a balance between a fully cooked interior and a juicy, succulent flavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cooking a medium well steak on the stove, exploring techniques, tips, and some mouthwatering seasoning options. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned cook, follow these steps to impress your friends and family with an incredible steak dinner.
Understanding Steak Doneness
Before diving into the cooking techniques, it’s important to understand what “medium well” means when it comes to steak.
What is Medium Well Steak?
Medium well steak is characterized by a warm, mostly cooked interior, usually at an internal temperature of about 150°F to 160°F (65°C to 71°C). It has a slight pink center and is firmer compared to medium and medium rare steaks. This doneness level still retains some juice but has a drier consistency than its less-cooked counterparts.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Selecting the appropriate cut of steak is crucial for achieving the best results. Some popular choices for medium well steaks include:
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling and flavor, ribeye steaks are both tender and flavorful.
- Sirloin: A leaner option, sirloin provides a good balance of flavor and tenderness.
Preparation for Cooking Steak
Proper preparation is key to delivering a delicious medium well steak. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients and tools:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steak (ribeye, sirloin, etc.) | 1-inch thick steak |
| Salt | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Optional herbs (thyme, rosemary) | Fresh sprigs |
Preparing the Steak
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Bring to Room Temperature: Allow your steak to sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking, reducing the chances of a cold center.
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Season the Steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. For added flavor, consider rubbing in some crushed garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
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Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry. Removing excess moisture helps achieve that beautiful sear we’re aiming for.
Cooking the Medium Well Steak on the Stove
Now that your steak is prepped, let’s get to cooking!
The Best Cooking Method
The best way to cook a medium well steak on the stove is to use a heavy skillet, ideally a cast-iron skillet, known for its heat retention and even cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Heat the Skillet: Place your skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow it to become hot enough where a drop of water sizzles and evaporates instantly on contact.
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Adding Fat: Pour in the olive oil or add butter to the hot skillet. Swirl it around to ensure the fat coats the surface evenly.
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Sear the Steak: Carefully place your steak in the hot skillet. You should hear a loud sizzle, which means you’re on the right track. Let it sear for 4-5 minutes without moving it.
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Flip the Steak: Using tongs, flip the steak over. If it sticks to the skillet, allow it to cook a bit longer until it releases easily.
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Cook for Another 4-5 Minutes: Cook the second side for 4-5 minutes. To achieve a medium well finish, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 150°F to 160°F (65°C to 71°C).
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Add Flavor During the Cook: Optional but recommended: During the last two minutes of cooking, add herbs and a tablespoon of butter to the pan. Use a spoon to baste the melted butter and herbs over the steak for enhanced flavor.
Determining Steak Doneness
To ensure accuracy in checking the doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak. Ideally, for medium well, aim for:
- 150°F (65°C) – Slightly pink center, beginning to brown.
- 160°F (71°C) – Mostly brown center, firm texture.
Resting the Steak
After you’ve reached the desired temperature, it’s essential to let the steak rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and juicy.
How to Rest Your Steak
- Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.
- Cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
Slicing and Serving
Once your steak has rested, it’s time to slice and serve.
How to Slice Your Steak
- Use a sharp knife for clean slices.
- Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. This means cutting across the muscle fibers rather than parallel to them.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your medium well steak with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or chimichurri sauce can elevate your dish further.
Enhancing Your Steak Experience
Creating an unforgettable steak dinner isn’t just about cooking; it’s also about presentation and ambiance.
Choosing the Right Wine Pairing
A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of medium well steak.
Adding Side Dishes
Complement your meal with delectable sides:
- Grilled Asparagus: A light and flavorful addition.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: A classic steakhouse side that satisfies.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the perfect medium well steak on the stove is a rewarding experience that can take your home-cooked meals to a new level. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can achieve a steak that is tender, flavorful, and cooked exactly to your liking. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t meet your expectations. With time and experience, you’ll become a steak-cooking pro in no time. Happy cooking!
What temperature should I cook a medium well steak to?
A medium well steak is typically cooked to an internal temperature of 150°F to 160°F (65°C to 71°C). This range will give you a steak that is mostly brown on the inside with only a hint of pink. To achieve this temperature, you can use a meat thermometer, which is the most reliable way to gauge doneness.
When cooking on the stove, it’s important to monitor the steak closely as temperatures can rise quickly. Once the steak reaches around 145°F (63°C), it’s essential to remove it from the heat source and let it rest. The residual heat will continue to cook the steak up to the desired medium well temperature.
How do I season my steak for maximum flavor?
Seasoning your steak is a crucial step in enhancing its flavor profile. A simple combination of salt and black pepper can work wonders. Generously coat both sides of the steak with kosher salt, which helps to draw out moisture and build a crust when searing. Then, use freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
For more complexity, consider adding extra spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. Marinades can also be effective; a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs can infuse the meat with delicious flavors. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking for the best results.
What pan is best for cooking steak on the stove?
The best cookware for searing steak on the stove is a heavy-bottomed pan, such as cast iron or stainless steel. Cast iron provides excellent heat retention and creates a beautiful crust on the steak. It also distributes heat evenly, which is vital for achieving a perfectly cooked medium well steak.
Stainless steel pans also work well, provided they are preheated adequately before adding the steak. The key is to ensure your pan is hot enough to sear, creating a Maillard reaction that caramelizes the surface of the meat. Make sure to use a pan that can withstand high heat to avoid warping or damage.
How long should I cook a medium well steak on the stove?
The cooking time for a medium well steak will vary based on the thickness of the cut and the heat level of your stove. As a general rule, for a 1-inch thick steak, you should cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. Thicker steaks will require additional time, so it’s essential to monitor the steak closely.
Besides time, the best indicator of doneness is internal temperature. After cooking each side, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 150°F to 160°F. Once the steak reaches that temperature, remove it from the skillet and allow it to rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
Should I let my steak rest after cooking?
Yes, allowing your steak to rest after cooking is vital for ensuring maximum juiciness and tenderness. Resting gives the meat fibers time to relax, which helps retain the juices that would otherwise escape when you cut into it. Ideally, you should let your medium well steak rest for about 5 to 10 minutes on a cutting board or a warm plate.
To maintain warmth during this resting period, you can loosely cover the steak with aluminum foil. This will prevent it from cooling down too quickly while still allowing air circulation, avoiding any steaming that could make the crust soggy. After resting, you can slice your steak for serving.
What sides pair well with a medium well steak?
When serving a medium well steak, several sides can enhance the meal and complement the rich flavors of the meat. Classic choices include roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which add freshness and texture to the plate. Mashed potatoes or a loaded baked potato can also provide a comforting, hearty balance to the meal.
For a lighter option, consider a salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to brighten the dish. Grilled corn on the cob or garlic bread can also serve as great accompaniments. These sides will round out a delicious meal that highlights the perfectly cooked steak.