What's the best way to prepare a steak before it hits the pan?

Question

Discover pre-cooking steps to prepare steak for optimal searing results.

Answer 1

Pat the steak dry with paper towels, season generously with salt and pepper, and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Detailed Explanation:

Preparing a steak properly before cooking is crucial for achieving a delicious, evenly cooked result with a beautiful sear. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Pat the steak dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the steak. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving a good sear. Moisture turns to steam, which inhibits browning.

2. Season generously: Season the steak liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy! The salt not only enhances the flavor but also helps to draw out moisture, which will then evaporate, further aiding in the searing process. Consider adding other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, depending on your preference.

3. Rest at room temperature: Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, and up to an hour. This allows the steak to warm up slightly, which promotes more even cooking throughout. A cold steak will take longer to cook in the center, potentially leading to an overcooked exterior.

4. Optional: Add oil: Lightly brush the steak with a high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil, just before placing it in the pan. This helps to conduct heat and promotes even browning. Alternatively, you can add the oil directly to the pan.

Pro Tip:

Don't overcrowd the pan! If you're cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to maintain a high pan temperature. Overcrowding lowers the temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.