Achieving the perfect steak involves a combination of choosing the right cut, proper seasoning, and precise cooking. Here’s a simple recipe for cooking a delicious pan-seared steak:
Title: Perfect Pan-Seared Steak
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless ribeye or New York strip steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) and garlic cloves for flavor
Instructions:
- Bring the Steak to Room Temperature:
- Take the steaks out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is optional but will help ensure even cooking.
- Season the Steaks:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. If desired, you can add other seasonings like garlic powder or a steak rub.
- Preheat the Pan:
- Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat. Add olive oil and wait until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Sear the Steaks:
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, including the edges, until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Add Butter and Aromatics:
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter, fresh herbs, and garlic cloves to the pan. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for additional flavor.
- Baste the Steaks:
- Using a spoon, baste the steaks with the flavored butter for another 1-2 minutes. This enhances the richness and taste.
- Optional Oven Finish:
- If you desire a medium or well-done steak, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Steaks:
- Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the steak against the grain into 1/2-inch slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches your desired doneness. The internal temperature for medium-rare is around 130°F (54°C).
- Experiment with different cuts of steak based on your preferences, such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon.
This method provides a beautifully seared and flavorful steak. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness. Enjoy your perfect pan-seared steak!