Introduction: Cooking Steak on Stove
Cooking a steak on a stove is a great way to enjoy a delicious and juicy steak without having to fire up the grill. However, it can be tricky to get the cooking time just right. The cooking time will depend on several factors such as the thickness of the steak, the cut of the steak, and the desired doneness. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a steak on the stove and how long to cook it for the perfect result.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
Several factors can affect the cooking time of a steak on a stove. The thickness of the steak is one of the most critical factors. The thicker the steak, the longer it will take to cook. The desired doneness is another factor that will affect the cooking time. A rare steak will take less time to cook than a well-done steak. The cut of the steak is also important. Different cuts of steak have different cooking times. Finally, the type of heat source and cooking temperature will also affect the cooking time.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Choosing the right cut of steak is essential for a successful stove-top cooking experience. Different cuts of steak have different levels of tenderness and fat content, which can affect the cooking time and the final result. Some of the best cuts of steak for stove-top cooking include ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. These cuts are tender and have a good amount of marbling, which will help to keep the steak moist and juicy.
Preparing the Steak for Cooking
Before cooking the steak, it is important to prepare it properly. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak to cook evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak with salt and pepper, or any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Cooking Temperature and Heat Source
The cooking temperature and heat source are crucial for cooking a perfect steak on the stove. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot. You can also use a cast-iron skillet or a grill pan. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sear the steak. The ideal cooking temperature for a steak is between 400°F and 450°F.
Searing the Steak on the Stove
To sear the steak, add a tablespoon of oil or butter to the hot skillet. When the oil is hot, add the steak. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until it is browned and caramelized. This will create a crispy crust on the steak and help to lock in the juices.
How Long to Cook the Steak on the First Side
Once the steak is seared on one side, it is time to cook the other side. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. As a general rule, cook a 1-inch-thick steak for about 3-4 minutes on the first side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes for medium, or 5-6 minutes for well-done. For thicker steaks, add an extra minute or two per side.
Flipping the Steak and Cooking the Second Side
Once the first side is cooked, flip the steak over and cook the second side for about the same amount of time as the first side. Use tongs to handle the steak and avoid piercing it with a fork as this will release the juices.
Checking the Internal Temperature of the Steak
To ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135°F, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Resting and Serving the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the steak more tender and juicy. Slice the steak against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
