When it comes to cooking steak, achieving the perfect level of doneness can be a challenge, even for the most experienced chefs. One of the most popular cooking levels for steak is medium-well, which offers a balance of flavor, tenderness, and texture. But how long do you need to cook steak on both sides to achieve this level of perfection? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of steak cooking and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook medium-well steak to perfection.
Understanding Medium-Well Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what medium-well steak is and how it’s defined. Medium-well steak is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of between 150°F (65°C) and 155°F (68°C). At this stage, the steak will be slightly firmer to the touch than a medium-rare steak, but still yielding to pressure. The color will be a warm red in the center, with a hint of pink, and a brown crust on the outside.
The Importance of Internal Temperature
Internal temperature is a crucial factor in achieving medium-well steak. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the internal temperature of the steak. You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone, to get an accurate reading.
Remember, internal temperature is the key to cooking steak to perfection, so make sure to invest in a good meat thermometer.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Several factors can affect the cooking time of steak, including:
Steak Thickness
The thickness of the steak is one of the most significant factors affecting cooking time. Thicker steaks take longer to cook than thinner ones, as the heat needs to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Thickness Guidelines
- Thin steaks (less than 1 inch / 2.5 cm): 2-3 minutes per side
- Medium steaks (1-1.5 inches / 2.5-3.8 cm): 3-4 minutes per side
- Thick steaks (1.5-2 inches / 3.8-5 cm): 5-6 minutes per side
Cooking Methods
The cooking method you choose can also impact the cooking time of your steak. Grilling, pan-searing, and oven broiling are popular methods, each with its own unique cooking times.
Cooking Method Comparison
- Grilling: 2-3 minutes per side (depending on heat intensity)
- Pan-searing: 3-4 minutes per side (depending on heat intensity)
- Oven broiling: 4-5 minutes per side (depending on oven temperature)
Cooking Medium-Well Steak on Both Sides
Now that we’ve covered the factors affecting cooking time, let’s dive into the actual cooking process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook medium-well steak on both sides:
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Preheat your grill, pan, or oven to the desired temperature. For grilling, aim for medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). For pan-searing, use a hot skillet (around 425°F / 220°C) with a small amount of oil. For oven broiling, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Season the Steak
Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and any other aromatics you like.
Step 3: Sear the Steak (First Side)
Place the steak on the preheated cooking surface and sear for the recommended time based on the steak’s thickness and cooking method. For a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick steak, cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side.
Step 4: Flip and Cook the Second Side
Flip the steak over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C).
Step 5: Check Internal Temperature and Adjust
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. If it’s not yet reached the desired temperature, continue cooking in 30-second increments until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Step 6: Let the Steak Rest
Once the steak has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak even more tender and flavorful.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to help you achieve the perfect medium-well steak:
Tent the Steak
If you’re worried about the steak cooking too quickly or overcooking, tent it with foil to retain heat and moisture.
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet
Cast-iron skillets are ideal for pan-searing, as they retain heat well and can achieve a nice crust on the steak.
Try Different Cooking Oils
Experiment with different cooking oils, such as avocado oil or ghee, to add unique flavors to your steak.
Conclusion
Cooking medium-well steak is an art that requires attention to detail and practice. By understanding the factors affecting cooking time and following these simple steps, you can achieve the perfect medium-well steak every time. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the desired level, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and seasonings to find your ideal steak. Happy cooking!
What is the ideal internal temperature for a medium-well steak?
The ideal internal temperature for a medium-well steak is between 150°F (65°C) and 155°F (68°C). This temperature range ensures that the steak is cooked to a perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness, while still maintaining a hint of pink in the center.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as it’s the most accurate way to determine the doneness of the steak. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone.
How do I choose the right cut of steak for medium-well cooking?
When it comes to choosing the right cut of steak for medium-well cooking, look for cuts that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick. Thicker cuts allow for a more even cooking process, ensuring that the steak cooks to the desired temperature throughout. Ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon are excellent choices for medium-well cooking.
Additionally, consider the marbling of the steak. Cuts with more marbling tend to be more tender and juicy, which is perfect for medium-well cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become dry and tough when cooked to medium-well. A well-marbled steak will provide a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Should I use oil or butter to cook my medium-well steak?
Oil is an excellent choice for cooking medium-well steak, as it has a high smoke point, which allows for high-heat cooking without burning or smoking. Avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil are all good options.
However, if you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your steak, you can use butter. Unsalted butter or browned butter can add a rich, nutty flavor to your steak. Just be careful not to burn the butter, as it can quickly become bitter and overpower the flavor of the steak.
How long do I need to cook each side of the steak to achieve medium-well?
The cooking time for each side of the steak will depend on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your stovetop or grill. As a general guideline, cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak. For thicker steaks, add an extra minute or two per side.
Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the internal temperature of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the heat when it reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.
Can I cook a medium-well steak in the oven?
Yes, you can cook a medium-well steak in the oven! Oven-cooking is a great method for achieving a consistent temperature throughout the steak. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and cook the steak for 10-15 minutes for a 1-inch thick steak.
To ensure even cooking, place the steak on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the steak, promoting even browning and cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the oven when it reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.
How do I let the steak rest after cooking?
After cooking the steak to medium-well, it’s crucial to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. During the resting period, the juices redistribute throughout the steak, making it even more tender and flavorful.
To let the steak rest, remove it from the heat and place it on a plate or cutting board. Loosely cover the steak with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel to retain the heat. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, and then slice it against the grain to serve.
Can I cook a medium-well steak on a grill or grill pan?
Grilling is an excellent way to cook a medium-well steak, as it adds a smoky, charred flavor to the outside while keeping the inside juicy and pink. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak.
To prevent the steak from burning or charring too much, make sure to oil the grates or grill pan before adding the steak. You can also use a cast-iron or stainless steel grill pan on the stovetop for a similar grilling effect. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the grill when it reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.