How to Cook the Perfect Medium-Well Steak | Tips, Techniques & Timing

Introduction

Cooking steak to perfection can be intimidating. There are so many variables to consider – from the cut of meat to the cooking method – that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But if you want to make a delicious, juicy steak that’s cooked perfectly every time, then you need to understand the basics of cooking a medium-well steak.

Medium-well steak is a term used to describe a steak that has been cooked to an internal temperature of 155-165°F (68-74°C). This type of steak is slightly pink in the middle, but still relatively firm and not overly done. It is often considered the most popular way to cook steak, as it offers a balance between juiciness and flavor.

In this article, we’ll provide a guide to help you understand the basics of how to cook a medium-well steak. We’ll cover topics such as what a medium-well steak is, how to prepare it, how long to cook it, and the best techniques for getting the perfect steak every time.

A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Medium-Well Steak

Before you start cooking your steak, it’s important to understand what a medium-well steak is and how to prepare it.

What is a medium-well steak?

As mentioned earlier, a medium-well steak is a steak that has been cooked to an internal temperature of 155-165°F (68-74°C). At this temperature, the steak will be slightly pink in the middle, but still relatively firm. As a result, the steak will be juicy and flavorful, without being too overcooked or dry.

How to prepare a medium-well steak

Once you’ve chosen the right cut of steak for your meal, it’s important to properly prepare it before cooking. Start by patting the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the steak to cook evenly and prevent it from sticking to the pan. Next, season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Finally, let the steak sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cooking to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

How Long Should You Cook a Medium-Well Steak?

Now that you know how to prepare a medium-well steak, it’s time to talk about the ideal cooking time. Generally speaking, the ideal cooking time for a medium-well steak is 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. However, there are several factors that can affect the cooking time, so it’s important to keep an eye on the steak as it cooks.

The ideal cooking time for a medium-well steak

As mentioned earlier, the ideal cooking time for a medium-well steak is 8-10 minutes. However, this cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. For example, a 1-inch thick steak will take approximately 8 minutes to reach medium-well, while a 2-inch thick steak will take 10 minutes.

Factors that affect cooking time

In addition to the thickness of the steak, there are other factors that can affect the cooking time. These include the type of cooking surface (e.g. grill, skillet, oven), the temperature of the cooking surface, and the size of the steak. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when determining the ideal cooking time for a medium-well steak.

The Secret to Cooking the Perfect Medium-Well Steak

Now that you know the basics of cooking a medium-well steak, it’s time to discuss the best techniques for getting the perfect steak every time.

Best techniques for cooking a medium-well steak

When cooking a medium-well steak, the best technique is to use a combination of high heat and short cooking time. Start by preheating your cooking surface to high heat. Once the surface is hot, add a small amount of oil to the pan and place the steak in the center. Let the steak cook for 4 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for another 4 minutes. Finally, turn off the heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for getting the perfect medium-well steak

In addition to using the proper cooking technique, here are some tips to help you get the perfect medium-well steak every time:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the steak. The internal temperature should be between 155-165°F (68-74°C).
• Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak.
• Use a high-quality cut of steak for the best results.
• Add a pat of butter to the pan during cooking to give the steak a richer flavor.

The Best Times and Techniques for Making Medium-Well Steak

Now that you know the basics of making a medium-well steak, it’s time to talk about the best times and techniques for getting the perfect steak every time.

What temperature should you cook medium-well steak to?

As mentioned earlier, the ideal temperature for a medium-well steak is 155-165°F (68-74°C). To ensure that the steak is cooked to the right temperature, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak as it cooks.

Different techniques for making medium-well steak

There are several different techniques for making a medium-well steak. The most popular techniques include pan searing, grilling, broiling, and oven roasting. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the technique that best suits your needs.

Best times for cooking medium-well steak

The ideal cooking time for a medium-well steak is 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the steak as it cooks to ensure that it doesn’t overcook or undercook.

Conclusion

Cooking a medium-well steak can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, cooking methods, and timing, you can make a delicious, juicy steak that’s cooked to perfection every time. So the next time you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak, remember the tips and techniques outlined in this article and you’ll be sure to have a delicious meal.