Cooking a steak to medium rare perfection can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to cooking. However, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that will impress even the most discerning palates. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook a steak medium rare in a frying pan.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat. Not all steaks are created equal, and some cuts are better suited for pan-searing than others. For a medium rare steak, you want to choose a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick and has a good balance of marbling (fat distribution) throughout. Some popular cuts that fit this criteria include:
- Ribeye: Known for its rich flavor and tender texture, ribeye is a popular choice for steak lovers.
- Sirloin: A leaner cut than ribeye, sirloin is still packed with flavor and has a slightly firmer texture.
- Filet Mignon: A tender and lean cut, filet mignon is perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor.
Understanding the Different Levels of Doneness
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to understand the different levels of doneness. A medium rare steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), with a warm red color throughout. Here’s a breakdown of the different levels of doneness:
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature | Color |
| — | — | — |
| Rare | 120-125°F (49-52°C) | Red |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) | Warm Red |
| Medium | 140-145°F (60-63°C) | Pink |
| Medium Well | 150-155°F (66-68°C) | Slightly Pink |
| Well Done | 160-170°F (71-77°C) | Fully Cooked |
Preparing the Steak
Now that we’ve chosen our cut of meat and understand the different levels of doneness, it’s time to prepare the steak for cooking. Here are a few steps to follow:
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the steak to cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Seasoning the Steak
Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Drying the Steak
Use a paper towel to gently pat the steak dry on both sides. This removes excess moisture and helps create a crispy crust on the steak.
Cooking the Steak
Now it’s time to cook the steak. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a steak medium rare in a frying pan:
Heating the Pan
Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it reaches a scorching hot temperature. You can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the pan – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is ready.
Adding Oil to the Pan
Add a small amount of oil to the pan, just enough to coat the bottom. You can use any type of oil you like, but olive oil or avocado oil work well.
Searing the Steak
Place the steak in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You want to get a nice crust on the steak, so don’t move it too much.
Finishing the Steak
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium rare, you want to reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Letting the Steak Rest
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your steak game to the next level:
- Use a cast-iron pan: Cast-iron pans retain heat well and can achieve a nice crust on the steak.
- Don’t press down on the steak: Resist the temptation to press down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
- Add aromatics to the pan: Add some aromatics like garlic, onions, or thyme to the pan for added flavor.
- Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder to add unique flavors to your steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking a steak medium rare in a frying pan:
- Overcooking the steak: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the steak regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Not letting the steak rest: Letting the steak rest is crucial for retaining its tenderness and juices.
- Not using a hot enough pan: A hot pan is essential for achieving a nice crust on the steak.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a deliciously cooked steak medium rare in a frying pan. Remember to practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it just right. Happy cooking!
What type of steak is best suited for pan-searing?
When it comes to pan-searing, you want to choose a steak that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick and has a good balance of marbling, which is the amount of fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. This will help the steak to cook evenly and stay juicy. Some popular types of steak that are well-suited for pan-searing include ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon.
It’s also worth noting that you want to choose a steak that is fresh and of high quality. Look for steaks that are labeled as “grass-fed” or “dry-aged,” as these will tend to have more complex and nuanced flavors. Avoid steaks that are labeled as “select” or “standard,” as these may be lower quality and less flavorful.
How do I prepare the steak for pan-searing?
Before you start cooking the steak, you want to make sure that it is properly prepared. This includes bringing the steak to room temperature, which will help it to cook more evenly. You should also pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent the steak from browning properly.
You may also want to season the steak with a bit of salt and pepper, or any other seasonings that you like. Some people also like to add a bit of oil to the steak, which can help it to brown more evenly. However, be careful not to add too much oil, as this can make the steak taste greasy.
What type of pan is best for pan-searing a steak?
When it comes to pan-searing a steak, you want to use a pan that is hot and can retain heat well. Some good options include cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel pans. Avoid using pans that are made of aluminum or copper, as these can heat unevenly and may not retain heat well.
It’s also worth noting that you want to use a pan that is large enough to hold the steak comfortably. You don’t want the steak to be crowded in the pan, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly. A good rule of thumb is to use a pan that is at least 1-2 inches larger on each side than the steak.
How hot should the pan be for pan-searing a steak?
When it comes to pan-searing a steak, you want the pan to be hot, but not so hot that it burns the steak. A good rule of thumb is to heat the pan over high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 400-500°F (200-260°C). You can test the heat of the pan by flicking a few drops of water onto it – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is ready.
It’s also worth noting that you want to use a thermometer to check the temperature of the pan, especially if you’re new to pan-searing steaks. This will help you to ensure that the pan is at the right temperature, which is crucial for achieving a good sear.
How long do I cook the steak for medium rare?
The cooking time for a medium rare steak will depend on the thickness of the steak and the heat of the pan. As a general rule, you want to cook the steak for around 3-5 minutes per side for a 1-1.5 inch thick steak. However, this can vary depending on the specific steak and pan you’re using.
It’s also worth noting that you want to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, especially if you’re new to cooking steaks. For medium rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to check the temperature.
How do I let the steak rest after cooking?
After you’ve cooked the steak, you want to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, which can help it to stay juicy and flavorful. To let the steak rest, simply remove it from the pan and place it on a plate or cutting board.
You can cover the steak with a bit of foil to keep it warm, but avoid covering it too tightly, as this can trap the heat and cause the steak to continue cooking. Let the steak rest for around 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your personal preference.
How do I slice the steak after it’s rested?
After the steak has rested, you can slice it against the grain using a sharp knife. To slice against the grain, you want to identify the direction of the muscle fibers in the steak and slice in the opposite direction. This will help the steak to be more tender and easier to chew.
You can slice the steak into thin strips or thicker slices, depending on your personal preference. Some people also like to slice the steak at an angle, which can help it to look more appealing on the plate. Regardless of how you slice the steak, be sure to use a sharp knife and slice it gently to avoid tearing the meat.