The Best Way To Cook Steak? | Techniquely with Lan Lam

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn the best way to cook steak using a method known as cold-searing. This technique allows you to achieve a perfectly seared steak with a juicy, evenly cooked interior, all without the mess and equipment often associated with traditional cooking methods. By the end, you’ll understand how to prepare a delicious steak quickly and easily.

Step 1: Choose the Right Steak

• Select a boneless steak that is approximately 1.5 inches thick for optimal results.
• Strip steaks are a great choice, but you can use any cut that meets the thickness requirement.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

• Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Season the steak with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Avoid salting at this stage, as salting draws out moisture and can impact the sear.
• If you have time, you can salt the steak 45 minutes to a day in advance for better flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Non-Stick Skillet

• Place a non-stick skillet on the stove and set the heat to high.
• Do not add any oil; the fat from the steak will provide enough moisture for cooking.

Step 4: Begin Cooking

• Place the steak in the cold skillet. As it heats, the steak will release juices and start to render fat.
• Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for the first four minutes. This step is crucial for developing flavor and building the crust.

Step 5: Flip and Adjust Heat

• After four minutes, flip the steak. You may not see significant browning yet, which is expected at this stage.
• Reduce the heat to medium. You want to hear a gentle sizzle without excessive splatter or smoke.

Step 6: Continue Cooking

• Flip the steak every two minutes to ensure even cooking and to build layers of crust.
• Monitor the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 125°F for medium-rare. Depending on the thickness of the steak, total cooking time may vary from 6 to 10 minutes.

Step 7: Rest the Steak

• Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

• After resting, slice the steak against the grain for tenderness.
• Finish with a sprinkle of coarse salt to enhance flavor and add texture.

Conclusion

Cold-searing is an efficient method to cook steak that yields excellent results with minimal mess. You achieve a great crust and evenly cooked meat without the need for fancy equipment. Try this technique for steaks, and consider adapting it for other proteins like pork chops or salmon fillets. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!