Cooking a steak to the perfect medium well can be a challenging task, especially for those who are new to cooking. The stove can be a forgiving cooking method, but it requires a good understanding of the steak’s thickness, the heat level, and the cooking time. In this article, we will delve into the world of steak cooking and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook a steak to medium well on the stove.
Understanding the Basics of Steak Cooking
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking a steak to medium well, it’s essential to understand the basics of steak cooking. A steak can be cooked to various levels of doneness, ranging from rare to well done. The level of doneness is determined by the internal temperature of the steak, which is measured using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature for medium well is between 150°F and 155°F.
The Importance of Steak Thickness
The thickness of the steak plays a crucial role in determining the cooking time. A thicker steak will take longer to cook than a thinner one. It’s essential to choose a steak that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick to ensure that it cooks evenly. Thin steaks can cook too quickly, leading to an overcooked exterior and an undercooked interior.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
The cut of steak can also affect the cooking time. Different cuts of steak have varying levels of marbling, which is the amount of fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. Cuts with more marbling, such as ribeye and porterhouse, will cook more quickly than leaner cuts, such as sirloin and flank steak. For medium well, it’s best to choose a cut that has a moderate level of marbling, such as a strip loin or a filet mignon.
Cooking a Steak to Medium Well on the Stove
Now that we have covered the basics of steak cooking, let’s move on to the specifics of cooking a steak to medium well on the stove. The stove is a great way to cook a steak, as it allows for a good sear on the exterior while cooking the interior to the desired level of doneness.
Preheating the Skillet
To cook a steak on the stove, you will need a skillet that is preheated to a high heat. A cast-iron or stainless steel skillet is ideal, as it can withstand high temperatures and distribute heat evenly. Preheat the skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches a temperature of 400°F to 500°F.
Adding Oil and Searing the Steak
Once the skillet is preheated, add a small amount of oil to the pan. Use a neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, to prevent the steak from tasting bitter. Place the steak in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms on the exterior.
Cooking the Steak to Medium Well
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking it to the desired level of doneness. For medium well, cook the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F to 155°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape.
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is an essential tool for cooking a steak to medium well. It allows you to check the internal temperature of the steak, ensuring that it is cooked to a safe temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone. For medium well, the internal temperature should be between 150°F and 155°F.
Tips and Variations for Cooking a Steak to Medium Well
While cooking a steak to medium well on the stove is a straightforward process, there are several tips and variations that can help you achieve the perfect steak.
Letting the Steak Rest
After cooking the steak, it’s essential to let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. During this time, the steak will retain its heat, so it’s essential to let it rest in a warm place.
Adding Aromatics and Seasonings
To add extra flavor to your steak, try adding aromatics and seasonings to the pan. Onions, garlic, and thyme are all great options, as they add a depth of flavor to the steak. Simply sauté the aromatics in the pan before adding the steak, and season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
In conclusion, cooking a steak to medium well on the stove requires a good understanding of the steak’s thickness, the heat level, and the cooking time. By following the tips and variations outlined in this article, you can achieve the perfect steak. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to a safe temperature, and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. With practice and patience, you can become a steak-cooking expert and enjoy a delicious, medium well steak every time.
The following table summarizes the key points to consider when cooking a steak to medium well on the stove:
| Steak Thickness | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 1-1.5 inches | 5-7 minutes per side | 150°F to 155°F |
Some additional considerations to keep in mind when cooking a steak to medium well on the stove include:
- Choosing a high-quality cut of steak that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick
- Preheating the skillet to a high heat and adding a small amount of oil
- Searing the steak for 2-3 minutes per side to create a nice crust
- Cooking the steak to the desired level of doneness and letting it rest for 5-10 minutes
By following these tips and guidelines, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, cooking a steak to medium well on the stove is a skill that can be mastered with practice and patience.
What is the ideal thickness for a steak to cook to medium well on the stove?
When it comes to cooking a steak to medium well on the stove, the thickness of the steak is crucial. The ideal thickness for a steak to cook to medium well is between 1 and 1.5 inches. This thickness allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired level of doneness. If the steak is too thin, it may cook too quickly and become overcooked, while a steak that is too thick may not cook evenly.
A steak that is 1 to 1.5 inches thick will typically take around 5-7 minutes per side to cook to medium well, depending on the heat and the type of steak. It’s also important to note that the type of steak can affect the cooking time, with more tender cuts like filet mignon cooking more quickly than heartier cuts like ribeye. To ensure that your steak is cooked to the correct thickness, it’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 150-155°F for medium well.
How do I choose the right type of steak for cooking to medium well on the stove?
Choosing the right type of steak is essential for cooking a delicious medium well steak on the stove. Look for steaks that are high in marbling, which is the amount of fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. Marbling adds flavor and tenderness to the steak, making it more enjoyable to eat. Some good options for medium well steaks include ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip. These cuts are all relatively tender and have a good amount of marbling, making them well-suited for cooking to medium well.
When selecting a steak, it’s also important to consider the grade of the meat. Look for steaks that are labeled as “prime” or “choice”, as these will typically be of higher quality and have more marbling than lower-grade steaks. Additionally, consider the age of the steak, as older steaks will typically be more tender and have more developed flavor than younger steaks. By choosing a high-quality steak with good marbling, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delicious medium well steak on the stove.
What is the best oil to use for cooking a steak to medium well on the stove?
When it comes to cooking a steak to medium well on the stove, the type of oil used can make a big difference. The best oil to use for cooking a steak is one that has a high smoke point, which is the temperature at which the oil begins to break down and smoke. Some good options for cooking steak include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and peanut oil, all of which have high smoke points and a mild flavor that won’t overpower the taste of the steak.
Using a high-quality oil is essential for cooking a great steak, as it will help to create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Additionally, the oil will help to prevent the steak from sticking to the pan, making it easier to flip and cook the steak evenly. When heating the oil in the pan, make sure to get it hot before adding the steak, as this will help to create a nice sear on the outside. You can test the heat of the oil by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the oil is ready to go.
What is the importance of letting a steak rest after cooking to medium well on the stove?
Letting a steak rest after cooking is an essential step in the cooking process, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax. When a steak is cooked, the fibers in the meat contract and push the juices to the surface. If the steak is sliced or served immediately, the juices will run out and the steak will be dry and tough. By letting the steak rest for a few minutes, the fibers will relax and the juices will redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
The amount of time to let a steak rest will depend on the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness. For a medium well steak, it’s a good idea to let it rest for around 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making the steak more enjoyable to eat. It’s also important to note that the steak should be tented with foil during the resting period, as this will help to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out. By letting the steak rest, you’ll be rewarded with a more tender and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress.
How do I achieve a nice crust on a steak when cooking to medium well on the stove?
Achieving a nice crust on a steak is essential for adding texture and flavor to the dish. To get a nice crust on a steak, it’s essential to heat the pan to the right temperature before adding the steak. A hot pan will help to create a nice sear on the outside of the steak, which will add texture and flavor. Additionally, make sure to pat the steak dry with a paper towel before adding it to the pan, as excess moisture will prevent the steak from browning properly.
To get a nice crust on a steak, it’s also important to not move the steak around too much in the pan. Let the steak cook for a few minutes on each side, without disturbing it, to allow the crust to form. You can also add a small amount of oil to the pan and let it heat up before adding the steak, which will help to create a nice crust. Finally, don’t press down on the steak with your spatula, as this will squeeze out the juices and prevent the crust from forming. By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve a nice crust on your steak that will add texture and flavor to the dish.
Can I cook a steak to medium well on the stove without a thermometer, and how?
While a thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of a steak, it is possible to cook a steak to medium well on the stove without one. To do this, you’ll need to rely on the touch test, which involves pressing the steak gently with your finger to determine its level of doneness. For a medium well steak, the steak should feel firm to the touch, but still yield to pressure. It’s also important to pay attention to the color of the steak, as a medium well steak will be cooked to a light brown color on the outside.
Another way to cook a steak to medium well on the stove without a thermometer is to use the timing method. This involves cooking the steak for a certain amount of time per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the level of heat. For a 1-1.5 inch thick steak, cook for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Keep in mind that this method is not as accurate as using a thermometer, and the steak may be overcooked or undercooked. To ensure the best results, it’s always a good idea to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be around 150-155°F for medium well.
How do I prevent a steak from becoming tough when cooking to medium well on the stove?
Preventing a steak from becoming tough when cooking to medium well on the stove requires attention to several key factors. First, make sure to not overcook the steak, as this will cause the fibers to tighten and become tough. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the heat when it reaches 150-155°F for medium well. Additionally, avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this will squeeze out the juices and cause the steak to become tough.
Another way to prevent a steak from becoming tough is to cook it using a gentle heat. Avoid using extremely high heat, as this will cause the outside of the steak to cook too quickly and become tough. Instead, use a medium-high heat to cook the steak, and make sure to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Finally, consider using a marinade or rub to add flavor and tenderize the steak before cooking. By following these tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and tender steak to medium well on the stove that’s sure to impress.