Cooking a steak to medium well done 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 is sure to impress. In this article, we will take you through the steps to cook a steak to medium well done, including the different types of steak, cooking methods, and tips for achieving the perfect doneness.
Choosing the Right Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of steak. There are several types of steak, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Here are some of the most popular types of steak:
Types of Steak
- Ribeye: A rich, tender cut with a lot of marbling, which makes it juicy and flavorful.
- Sirloin: A leaner cut with a firmer texture, making it a great option for those looking for a slightly healthier option.
- Filet Mignon: A tender and lean cut, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and mild flavor.
Preparing the Steak
Once you’ve chosen your steak, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly.
Seasoning the Steak
- Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can also rub the steak with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook a steak to medium well done, including grilling, pan-searing, and oven broiling. Here are the steps for each method:
Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F).
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium well done, the internal temperature should be at least 150°F to 155°F.
Pan-Searing
- Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F).
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Place the steak in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium well done, the internal temperature should be at least 150°F to 155°F.
Oven Broiling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F to 450°F.
- Place the steak on a broiler pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium well done, the internal temperature should be at least 150°F to 155°F.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Doneness
Achieving the perfect doneness can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right:
Using a Meat Thermometer
- A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of the steak.
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone.
Checking the Color
- The color of the steak can also indicate its level of doneness.
- For medium well done, the steak should be cooked to a light pink color in the center.
Letting the Steak Rest
- Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking a steak to medium well done:
Overcooking the Steak
- Overcooking the steak can make it tough and dry.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Not Letting the Steak Rest
- Not letting the steak rest can result in a tough and chewy texture.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
Cooking a steak to medium well done can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that is sure to impress. Remember to choose the right type of steak, prepare it properly, and cook it using the right method. Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to cooking the perfect steak.
What is the ideal internal temperature for a medium well-done steak?
The ideal internal temperature for a medium well-done steak is between 150°F (65°C) and 155°F (68°C). This temperature range ensures that the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature while still retaining some juiciness and tenderness.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, especially when cooking to a specific doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone, and wait for a few seconds until the temperature stabilizes.
How do I choose the right cut of steak for medium well-done?
When choosing a cut of steak for medium well-done, look for cuts that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick. Thicker cuts will allow for a nice crust to form on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon are excellent choices for medium well-done.
Avoid cuts that are too thin, as they may become overcooked and dry. Also, opt for cuts with a good balance of marbling, as the fat will help keep the steak juicy and flavorful.
What is the best way to season a steak for medium well-done?
To season a steak for medium well-done, use a combination of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Rub the seasonings all over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Avoid over-seasoning the steak, as this can make it taste bitter. Also, don’t press down on the steak with your spatula while it’s cooking, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
How do I cook a steak to medium well-done using a skillet?
To cook a steak to medium well-done using a skillet, heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s almost smoking. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Place the steak in the pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking it to the desired internal temperature. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the pan when it reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C).
Can I cook a steak to medium well-done using a grill?
Yes, you can cook a steak to medium well-done using a grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking. Place the steak on the grill and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
After searing the steak, move it to a cooler part of the grill and continue cooking it to the desired internal temperature. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the grill when it reaches 150°F (65°C) to 155°F (68°C).
How do I let a steak rest after cooking it to medium well-done?
After cooking a steak to medium well-done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness. Place the steak on a wire rack or a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
During the resting period, the internal temperature of the steak will continue to rise slightly, so it’s essential to check the temperature before serving. If the steak has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher, it’s best to let it rest for a shorter period to prevent overcooking.
How do I slice a steak after cooking it to medium well-done?
To slice a steak after cooking it to medium well-done, use a sharp knife and slice it against the grain. Cutting against the grain ensures that the steak is tender and easy to chew. Slice the steak into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, and serve it immediately.
When slicing the steak, use a gentle sawing motion to avoid applying too much pressure, which can cause the steak to tear. Also, slice the steak on a cutting board or other stable surface to prevent accidents.