How to Cook a Perfect Medium Well Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

A medium well steak is a steak cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F to 145°F. This type of steak is slightly pink in the middle and still juicy, but not as tender as medium rare or rare steaks. Cooking a medium well steak can be a challenge, as it must be cooked just right in order to achieve the desired doneness. However, with the right techniques, you can make sure your steak comes out perfectly cooked every time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking the Perfect Medium Well Steak

Cooking a medium well steak requires following a few simple steps. Here’s everything you need to know about making the perfect steak:

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

The first step to cooking the perfect steak is to choose the right cut. The most common cuts of steak used for medium well steaks are ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak. These cuts of meat have a good balance of fat and muscle, which helps them stay juicy even when cooked to a higher temperature. If you’re looking for a leaner steak, you can also try filet mignon or strip steak.

Preparing the Steak

Once you’ve chosen the right cut of steak, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Start by patting the steak dry with a paper towel. This will help ensure that the steak cooks evenly and won’t stick to the pan or grill. Then season the steak with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add herbs or spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cumin.

Cooking the Steak

Once the steak is seasoned, it’s time to start cooking. You can cook a medium well steak on the stovetop or on the grill. If you’re using a stovetop, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, place the steak in the pan and cook for three minutes per side. If you’re using a grill, preheat the grill to high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place the steak directly on the grill and cook for three minutes per side.

Checking for Doneness

Once the steak has been cooked for three minutes per side, it’s important to check for doneness. The best way to do this is to use a thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and check the temperature. For a medium well steak, the internal temperature should be between 140°F and 145°F. If the steak is not done to your liking, continue cooking for an additional minute per side until the steak reaches the desired temperature.

Tips and Tricks for Achieving a Medium Well Steak in Less Time

Cooking a medium well steak can take some time, but there are a few tricks you can use to speed up the process. Here are a few tips for achieving a perfect medium well steak in less time:

Preheat the Grill

If you’re using a grill to cook your steak, make sure to preheat it before you start cooking. Preheating the grill to high heat will help the steak cook quickly and evenly. It’s also important to keep the lid closed while cooking to maintain the proper temperature.

Use High Heat

Using high heat is key to achieving a medium well steak in less time. High heat helps the steak cook quickly and ensures that the outside of the steak gets nice and crispy, while the inside stays juicy and tender.

Allow the Steak to Rest After Cooking

Once the steak is cooked to the desired temperature, it’s important to let it rest for five to ten minutes before serving. Allowing the steak to rest will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.

Timing is Everything: How Long Should You Cook a Medium Well Steak?

Now that you know the basics of cooking a medium well steak, you may be wondering how long it takes. The average cooking time for a medium well steak is six minutes total, with three minutes per side. While this is a good estimate, it’s important to remember that cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of the grill or stovetop.

Average Cooking Times

For a one-inch thick steak, you can expect it to take around six minutes total to cook to medium well. For a thicker steak, you may need to increase the cooking time. Generally, a one-and-a-half inch thick steak will take eight minutes total to cook, while a two-inch thick steak will take around 10 minutes total.

Use a Thermometer

It’s always best to use a thermometer to check for doneness. A thermometer will give you the most accurate reading and ensure that your steak is cooked to the perfect temperature. The internal temperature for a medium well steak should be between 140°F and 145°F.

The Science Behind Getting the Best Results from a Medium Well Steak

Cooking a medium well steak requires understanding the science behind the process. There are two main factors that affect the quality of a steak: temperature and the Maillard reaction. Knowing how these two factors work together is key to achieving the perfect medium well steak.

Temperature Differences

The temperature of the steak affects both the texture and the flavor. As the temperature increases, the steak becomes more firm and the flavor becomes more intense. At 140°F to 145°F, the steak is slightly pink in the middle and still juicy, but not as tender as a medium rare or rare steak.

Maillard Reaction

The Maillard reaction is a chemical reaction that occurs when amino acids and sugars in food are exposed to high temperatures. This reaction produces new compounds that give food a unique flavor and aroma. In steak, the Maillard reaction is responsible for the browning of the outside of the steak, as well as the complex flavors and aromas.

Grilling 101: How to Ensure Your Medium Well Steak is Cooked To Perfection

Grilling is one of the best ways to cook a medium well steak. Here are a few tips for grilling the perfect steak every time:

Using a Grill Brush

Before you begin cooking, make sure to clean your grill with a grill brush. This will help remove any debris that could cause the steak to stick to the grill.

Maintaining Proper Grill Temperature

It’s important to keep the grill at a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. If the temperature is too low, the steak will take longer to cook and may not reach the desired temperature. If the temperature is too high, the steak may burn on the outside before it’s cooked through.

Letting the Steak Rest Before Serving

Once the steak is cooked to the desired temperature, it’s important to let it rest for five to ten minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect medium well steak is all about timing and technique. Choosing the right cut of steak, preparing it properly, and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process are all key to achieving the perfect steak. With the right steps and a little patience, you can make sure your steak comes out perfectly cooked every time.

Summary of Main Points

Cooking a medium well steak requires following a few simple steps. Choose the right cut of steak, season it properly, and cook it over high heat for three minutes per side. Use a thermometer to check for doneness, and let the steak rest for five to ten minutes before serving. With the right techniques, you can make sure your steak comes out perfectly cooked every time.

Final Thoughts

Cooking a medium well steak can be a challenge, but with the right techniques, you can make sure your steak comes out perfectly cooked every time. Understanding the science behind the process and following the steps outlined in this article will help you create the perfect steak.