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Cooking steak like a chef may seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and attention to detail, you can elevate your steak-cooking game to a whole new level. In this blog post, we will explore the secrets and tips that professional chefs use to achieve mouthwatering steaks. From selecting the perfect cut to mastering cooking techniques, you’ll soon be able to prepare restaurant-quality steaks in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, let’s delve into the world of culinary expertise and learn how to cook steak like a chef.
Choosing the Right Cut:
One of the keys to cooking steak like a chef is selecting the right cut of meat. Different cuts offer varying levels of tenderness, flavour, and marbling. Popular choices include ribeye, filet mignon, New York strip, and sirloin. Consider your preferences and the occasion to determine the ideal cut for your steak. Online butchers can be a great resource for sourcing high-quality, premium cuts that are delivered directly to your doorstep, ensuring you have access to the finest meats for your culinary endeavours.
Preparing and Seasoning:
Proper preparation and seasoning play a vital role in achieving chef-quality steak. Before cooking, make sure to bring the steak to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper or experiment with a dry rub or marinade to enhance the flavours. For an added depth of flavour, you can also infuse the steak with aromatics like crushed garlic, rosemary, or thyme.
Mastering the Cooking Techniques:
Chefs employ various cooking techniques to achieve perfectly cooked steaks. Here are two popular methods:
- a) Searing and Oven Finishing: Start by searing the steak in a hot skillet or cast-iron pan with a bit of oil or butter. Sear for a couple of minutes on each side until a rich crust forms. Then, transfer the steak to a preheated oven to finish cooking to the desired doneness. This method ensures a beautiful sear and even cooking throughout.
- b) Sous Vide and Searing: Sous vide is a technique in which the steak is vacuum-sealed and cooked in a water bath at a precise temperature for an extended period. This method ensures consistent doneness and incredible tenderness. After the sous vide process, sear the steak on high heat to create a caramelised crust.
- Resting and Slicing:
After cooking, allow the steak to rest before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavourful steak. Tent the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. This step is essential for a chef-worthy steak. When it’s time to slice, be sure to cut against the grain. This ensures a more tender and easier-to-chew steak. Cutting against the grain means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibres, which shortens them and leads to a more enjoyable eating experience.
Cooking steak like a chef requires attention to detail and a passion for culinary excellence. By selecting the right cut, properly preparing and seasoning the steak, mastering cooking techniques, and giving it time to rest, you’ll be well on your way to achieving exceptional steak dishes that will impress your taste buds and those of your guests. So, unleash your inner chef and savour the delicious rewards of a perfectly cooked steak!