Since the dawn of time, steak has been a significant delight at dinner tables across the world. From black-tie dinner parties to casual barbecues, a perfectly cooked steak often takes center stage. But have you ever wondered about the intricacies of steak doneness? Let’s delve into the mystery and find the perfect steak best suited to your palate.
The Art of Steak Doneness
Steak doneness is an art, with five essential levels: Rare, Medium Rare, Medium, Medium Well and Well Done. This science of doneness is not merely about the cooking time, but the internal temperature of the steak, which alters its color, texture, and flavor.
Hence, it’s crucial for any steak lover to understand these levels of steak doneness. Once you master the art of identifying these, you can enjoy a steak cooked to perfection, every time.
Rare Steak
A rare steak is cooked for a minimal period, ensuring the center remains cool, resulting in a strong, raw beef flavor. This steak is seared and usually still red 75% through the center, with an internal temperature of 120-130°F.
Medium Rare Steak
Medium Rare is a favorite point of doneness for many steak aficionados. It offers a perfect balance between tenderness and taste. The steak is still red but warmer in the center, with a slightly firmer texture than a rare steak. The internal temperature lies between 130-140°F.
Medium Steak
Medium steak is cooked further, with a hot, pink center. Ideal for those who are unsure about rare meat, it cemented its position as a safe bet when ordering in a restaurant. A Medium steak’s internal temperature should be between 140-155°F.
Medium Well Steak
Treading a thin line between fully cooked and flavorful, Medium Well is mostly brown with a slight tint of pink. The steak has a firm texture to it, with an internal temperature of 155-165°F.
Well Done Steak
A Well Done steak is cooked thoroughly until it’s brown or gray throughout. It has a tougher texture, with minimal juices, and its internal temperature is above 165°F.
Knowing When Your Steak is Done
Knowing when your steak is cooked to your desired doneness can be a bit tricky. One common method is the touch test, but the most accurate way is using a meat thermometer. This handy tool can help you achieve perfection, whether you desire a juicy, rare steak, or prefer it well done.
We hope this Steak Doneness Guide leads you to a lot of joyous steak dinners. After all, a good steak is quite simply – a piece of art.
