Cook Perfectly Succulent Steak in A Frying Pan
Achieving the succulent brown layer of caramelisation on a piece of steak is an art that many aspire to master. While grilling is often the preferred method, mastering the technique of cooking steak in a frying pan can be just as rewarding and delicious. With the right tools, ingredients, and techniques, anyone can create a mouthwatering steak that rivals those served in the finest steakhouses – brown on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside.
Cooking a steak can be daunting. It is not the cheapest of food ingredients and therefore, one would not want to screw a perfectly good piece of meat. If you are looking to perfect the art of cooking steak on a frying pan, walk through the steps below to achieve steak perfection. We will be perfecting the steak using the pan-seared method.
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Choosing the Right Piece of Steak:
The first step to cooking the perfect steak is getting good quality cut of meat. While personal preference plays a role, some cuts are better suited for pan-searing than others. Do not always go for the cheapest steak, they may not be appropriate for pan-searing. Opt for cuts like rump steak, ribeye, strip loin, or filet mignon, which have a good amount of marbling and tenderness. Steaks that are at least 1-inch thick are the best suited for pan-searing.
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Preparation is Key:
Before cooking, it's essential to properly prepare the steak. Bring the steak to room temperature by removing from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak. If you see excess moisture, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove it. Moisture can interfere with the searing process.
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Seasoning:
Rub oil on both sides of the steak. Then season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. For an extra flavour boost, you can also add herbs or spices like garlic powder, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
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Preheat the Pan:
Heavy-bottomed frying pan is best suited for searing steak. You can check out the wide range of affordable and durable frying pans from Vinod Cookware, for cooking steak. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat for several minutes until it's smoking hot. A hot pan is crucial for achieving a perfect sear on the steak.
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Searing the Steak:
Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot frying pan, laying it away from you to avoid splattering. Resist the urge to move the steak with tongs. Allow the steak to sear without moving it for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. If you like your steak medium rare, let it cook for about 7 to 8 minutes.
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Checking Doneness:
The key to a perfectly cooked steak is achieving the desired level of doneness. Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the steak. For rare, aim for 120-125°F (49-52°C); medium-rare, 130-135°F (54-57°C); medium, 140-145°F (60-63°C); medium-well, 150-155°F (66-68°C); and well-done, 160°F (71°C) and above.
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Adding fat:
You can finish off by adding a little fat like butter to give a buttery finish to your steak. Spread the melted butter thoroughly across the piece of meat with a spoon or a spatula
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Resting:
Once the steak is done, remove it from the frying pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow the steak to rest for 3 to 4 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
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Slicing and Serving:
After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps ensure tenderness and makes for easier eating. Serve the steak slices on a warm plate and garnish with fresh herbs or a pat of butter for added flavour.
Cooking the perfect steak is achievable with the right techniques, best frying pan and attention to detail. With practice and patience, you'll soon be able to cook steak like a seasoned chef. So, fire up your stove, and get ready to savour the deliciousness of a perfectly cooked steak.