The Art of Cooking Restaurant Quality Steak: A Guide to Cooking Amazing Steak at Home

Indulging in a perfectly cooked steak is a culinary experience like no other. The tantalising aroma, the mouthwatering sear, and the burst of flavours – it's a symphony of senses that transports you to a top-notch restaurant.

But guess what? You can achieve that same level of excellence right in your very own kitchen. In this guide, we'll delve into the secrets of cooking steak restaurant-style, bringing a touch of gastronomic sophistication to your dining table. Let's embark on this culinary journey and master the art of steak perfection.

Choosing the Right Cut:

To create a steak masterpiece that rivals the best restaurants, begin with selecting the right cut. Opt for well-marbled cuts like ribeye or fillet if the budget allows. The marbling adds a luxurious richness and enhances the overall flavour profile. If I'm feeling tight for the month I'll look at sirloin, flat iron or even sometimes rump.

Prepping Like a Pro:

Properly preparing your steak is crucial to achieving that sought-after restaurant quality.

Here's how:

- Remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you've got extra time, season with flaky salt the night before and place on a wire rack to remove excess moisture.

- Gently pat the steak dry with kitchen paper to facilitate a superior sear, wiping off excess salt if you followed the previous step.

- Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat (if you didn't follow the previous steps).

Searing for Perfection:

Creating a sear on your steak is where the magic happens. Follow these steps for a flawless crust:

- Heat a heavy pan, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat until it's piping hot.

- Drizzle a touch of sunflower oil/avocado oil onto the steak – just enough to coat it lightly.

- Carefully lay the steak onto the skillet, ensuring it sizzles upon contact.

- Allow the steak to sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This develops a gorgeous caramelised crust.

- For an extra layer of depth, add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme, a few knobs of butter, and a couple of crushed garlic cloves to the pan. Baste the steak with the fragrant infused butter during cooking. When done, remove and place onto a wire rack to rest. Aim for 4-5 degrees less than your desired temp as the residual heat will finish the cooking.

Temperatures for Perfect Doneness:

Achieving the perfect internal temperature is key to a succulent steak. Invest in a digital meat thermometer to nail your preferred doneness:

- Rare: (49°C) 120°F

- Medium-Rare: (54°C) 130°F

- Medium: (60°C) 140°F

- Medium-Well: (66°C) 150°F

- Well-Done: (71°C) 160°F

Resting for Ultimate Juiciness:

Allow your steak to rest before slicing to ensure those delectable juices are locked in. Cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5-7 minutes, thickness dependent.

Serving:

When it's time to serve, make sure you serve it with style:

- Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.

- Place it on a pre-warmed plate to retain its heat.

- Accompany your steak with a side of velvety mashed potatoes, vibrant sautéed greens, or a zesty chimichurri sauce.

The Finishing Touch:

Elevate your restaurant-quality steak by garnishing it with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt – a touch of finesse that's sure to impress your friends and family.

To Conclude:

Cooking a steak that rivals a restaurant's expertise is a gratifying achievement that adds a touch of sophistication to your culinary repertoire. By carefully selecting the right cut, mastering the art of searing, and perfecting the internal temperature, you can create a dining experience that's second to none. Elevate your cooking skills, delight your taste buds, and let the aroma of a beautifully cooked steak transport you to the realm of restaurant-quality indulgence, right in your very own kitchen. Cheers to mastering the art of steak perfection!

Ciao

The Flaky Boy