Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Cooking a steak to perfection can be a tricky task, especially if you’re aiming for medium-well doneness. But with the right knowledge and techniques, you can easily achieve the perfect medium-well steak that is juicy and flavorful.
In this article, we will explore what a medium-well steak looks like, the different steak doneness levels, how to cook a medium-well steak, and tips for healthy cooking.
What Does a Medium Well Steak Look Like?
A medium-well steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It should have a pink center with a small amount of red and a well-browned exterior. The meat should be firm to the touch and have a slight springiness when pressed. The juices should be slightly pink, but not red.
Guide to Steak Doneness:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C), cool red center
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C), warm red center
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C), pink center
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C), small amount of pink center
- Well-Done: 160-170°F (71-77°C), fully cooked with no pink center
How to Cook Medium-Well Steak?
- Start by taking the steak out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- Preheat your grill, pan, or oven to high heat.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Add oil to the pan or brush it onto the steak.
- Place the steak on the grill or pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
- Once the steak reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
What are Different Steak Doneness Levels?
- Rare: A rare steak is cooked quickly and has a cool red center. The exterior is seared, and the steak is juicy and flavorful.
- Medium-Rare: A medium-rare steak is cooked slightly longer than a rare steak, resulting in a warm red center. The exterior is seared, and the steak is juicy and flavorful.
- Medium: A medium steak is cooked slightly longer than a medium-rare steak, resulting in a pink center. The exterior is seared, and the steak is juicy and flavorful.
- Medium-Well: A medium-well steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and has a small amount of pink center. The exterior is well-browned, and the steak is firm to the touch.
- Well-Done: A well-done steak is cooked through and has no pink center. The exterior is well-browned, and the steak may be dry and less flavorful.
What Does Temperature Mean for Steak?
The internal temperature of a steak is an important factor in determining its doneness. Cooking a steak to the right temperature ensures that it is safe to eat and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
How To Choose the Type of Steak?
When choosing a steak, it’s important to consider the cut of meat and its marbling. Different cuts of steak have different levels of fat and flavor. For example, a ribeye steak is known for its rich flavor and marbling, while a filet mignon is leaner and more tender. Consider your personal preference and budget when choosing a cut of steak.
Healthy Cooking Advice:
- Trim excess fat from the steak before cooking to reduce the amount of saturated fat.
- Avoid charring the steak, as this can create harmful compounds.
- Use healthy oils, such as olive oil, for cooking.
- Cook the steak at a lower temperature to reduce the formation of harmful compounds.
How to Tell When Steak Is Done?
The best way to tell when a steak is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and check the internal temperature. As a general guideline, a medium-well steak should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
How (and When) to Salt a Steak?
It’s best to salt a steak about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat and add flavor. When salting, use a coarse salt and sprinkle it evenly over the steak. Avoid over-salting, as this can make the steak too salty.
How to Use a Meat Thermometer?
To use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch bone or fat. Wait a few seconds for the thermometer to register the temperature. Use the guidelines for different levels of doneness to determine when the steak is cooked to your desired level [1].
How to Tell When Steak is Done Without a Thermometer?
One way to tell when a steak is done without a thermometer is to use the “finger test.” Press the steak gently with your finger. A rare steak should feel soft and give easily, a medium steak should be slightly springy, and a well-done steak should feel firm.
Conclusion
Cooking a medium-well steak to perfection requires understanding the different levels of doneness, using the right cooking techniques and tools, and paying attention to the internal temperature of the steak. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can achieve a delicious and juicy medium-well steak every time. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to ensure the juices are distributed evenly throughout the steak. Happy cooking!
Reference:
- https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-to/food-storage-safety/using-a-meat-thermometer/
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