Cooking the perfect steak is an art that combines technique, timing, and the right equipment. If you’re looking to impress your friends or family with a succulent, juicy medium steak, there’s no better way to do it than on a Blackstone griddle. Known for its exceptional heat retention and even cooking surface, this versatile tool can elevate your steak game to new heights. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking a medium steak, ensuring that you serve up a delicious meal every time.
Understanding Your Blackstone Griddle
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking a medium steak, it’s crucial to understand your Blackstone griddle. This outdoor cooking appliance consists of a flat cooking surface that uses various heat zones to effectively sear and cook your meat.
Benefits of Using a Blackstone Griddle
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle offers several advantages:
- Consistent Heat: The griddle provides an even cooking surface that ensures your steak cooks uniformly.
- Multiple Cooking Areas: You can sear your steak while simultaneously sautéing vegetables or preparing sides.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
The first step in cooking a medium steak is selecting the right cut. Popular choices for achieving that perfectly cooked medium doneness include:
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling and rich flavor.
- New York Strip: Offers a great balance of tenderness and taste.
- T-Bone: This cut gives you two textures—the tenderloin and the strip.
Each cut will provide a unique flavor profile and texture, so choose based on your preference.
Preparing Your Steak for Cooking
Once you have your steak, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Proper preparation ensures that your steak will develop a delightful crust while staying juicy inside.
Thaw and Bring to Room Temperature
If you’re using frozen steak, ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking. You can plan ahead and leave it in the refrigerator overnight or use a quick-thaw method. After thawing, leave the steak out for about 30-60 minutes to bring it to room temperature. This helps in achieving even cooking.
Seasoning Your Steak
Simple seasoning can significantly enhance the flavor of your steak.
What You’ll Need:
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for an extra flavor kick.
How to Season:
- Generously sprinkle salt on both sides of the steak. Remember, a good amount of salt helps in creating a savory crust.
- Apply freshly cracked black pepper to both sides as well.
- For additional flavors, lightly dust garlic powder and paprika on each side to bring out a deeper taste profile.
Setting Up Your Blackstone Griddle
Properly setting up your Blackstone griddle is crucial for cooking the perfect medium steak.
Preheat Your Griddle
Turn on your Blackstone griddle to its highest setting and allow it to preheat for approximately 10-15 minutes. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of about 450°F to 500°F, which is ideal for searing steaks. To check if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If they evaporate immediately, you’re good to go!
Using the Right Oil
Choose oils with a high smoke point for cooking. Avocado oil or canola oil is perfect for high-heat cooking. Lightly coat the griddle’s surface to prevent sticking.
Cooking Your Medium Steak on the Blackstone Griddle
Now comes the exciting part—cooking your steak. Follow these steps for mouthwatering results.
Placing the Steak on the Griddle
Once your griddle is preheated and properly oiled, it’s time to add the steak. Place your steak on the griddle and avoid moving it for the first few minutes to allow a nice crust to form.
Cooking Time
The standard cooking time for a medium steak (approximately 1-inch thick) is generally around 4-5 minutes per side. However, using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Temperature Guide
- Medium Rare: 130°F – 135°F
- Medium: 135°F – 145°F
- Medium Well: 145°F – 155°F
Flipping the Steak
At the halfway mark (around 4-5 minutes), carefully flip the steak using tongs. Avoid using a fork, as piercing the meat can cause juices to escape, making it less tender.
Adding Flavor with Butter
For an added layer of flavor, consider basting the steak with butter during the last couple of minutes of cooking. To do this:
- Add a couple of tablespoons of butter to the side of the griddle.
- Once melted, use a spoon to baste the steak continuously while it finishes cooking. This will create a rich, flavorful crust.
Resting Your Steak
Once your steak has reached the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the griddle and place it on a cutting board.
Why Resting is Important
Resting your steak for 5-10 minutes is essential. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm while resting.
Serving Your Perfectly Cooked Medium Steak
After resting, it’s time to serve your steak!
Cutting the Steak
When cutting your steak, always slice against the grain. This means you should cut perpendicular to the lines in the meat. Cutting against the grain breaks up the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
Pairing Suggestions
Consider serving your medium steak with the following delicious pairings:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy potatoes with rich garlic flavor complement the savory steak. |
| Grilled Vegetables | Colorful veggies provide a healthy and flavorful contrast to the steak. |
Drizzling Sauce or Garnish
To elevate your dish even further, consider drizzling a steak sauce, chimichurri, or even a simple compound butter on top of your steak just before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also serve as a delightful garnish.
Conclusion
Cooking a medium steak on a Blackstone griddle is a rewarding experience that combines technique, timing, and a dash of passion. With the right cut, proper preparation, and attention to detail, you’ll be able to impress family and friends with mouthwatering results.
Incorporate these tips into your cooking routine, and soon enough, you’ll be known as the go-to steak master in your circle. So fire up that Blackstone griddle, and let’s get cooking!
What is considered a medium steak?
A medium steak is typically cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C). At this temperature, the steak will have a warm pink center, providing a balance between tenderness and a slight chew. Depending on personal preferences, some might adjust the cooking time to achieve this doneness, but sticking to this temperature range is the safest bet when aiming for medium.
To ensure your steak reaches this perfect medium, using a meat thermometer is highly recommended. Not only does this tool help you avoid overcooking, but it also allows for precision that can elevate your cooking skills. Remember, the steak will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the heat, so aim for a temperature slightly below your target when you take it off the griddle.
How do I season my steak before cooking?
Seasoning your steak properly can enhance its natural flavors and create a delicious crust when grilled. A simple yet effective seasoning consists of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Generously sprinkle both on all sides of the steak about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat, improving the flavor and juiciness.
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. You can also marinate your steak for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade for added depth of flavor. Remember to pat your steak dry with paper towels before placing it on the griddle to ensure a good sear.
What temperature should my Blackstone griddle be set to for cooking steak?
For cooking a medium steak on a Blackstone griddle, preheat the griddle to a high temperature, ideally around 450°F to 500°F (232°C to 260°C). This high heat ensures that you get a good sear on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s essential to reach this temperature before placing the steak on the griddle to achieve that desirable crust.
To check if the griddle is hot enough, you can perform the water droplet test. Simply flick a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate within seconds, you’re ready to start cooking. Avoid overcrowding your griddle, as this can decrease the temperature and negatively affect your steak’s cooking.
How long should I cook a medium steak on the Blackstone griddle?
The cooking time for a medium steak on a Blackstone griddle typically ranges from 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the exact temperature of the griddle. A one-inch thick steak usually takes around 5 minutes per side, while thicker cuts may require an additional minute or two. It’s crucial to avoid pressing down on the steak while cooking, as this releases juices and can lead to a dry result.
Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature is the most reliable method for ensuring doneness. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly once removed from the griddle, so you might want to take it off the heat just before it hits the target temperature. Letting the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Do I need to let the steak rest after cooking?
Yes, letting your steak rest after cooking is an essential step that enhances its flavor and juiciness. Resting allows the juices, which are pushed to the center of the steak during cooking, to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice into the steak immediately after cooking, these juices can escape, resulting in a drier steak.
A resting period of about 5 to 10 minutes is ideal. During this time, you can tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm without steaming it. This small effort will make a significant difference in the overall texture and flavor of your finished dish.
What are some tips for achieving a good sear on my steak?
Achieving a good sear on your steak is crucial to developing flavor and texture. First, ensure that your Blackstone griddle is preheated to the right temperature, typically around 450°F to 500°F (232°C to 260°C). The high heat will help create a Maillard reaction, resulting in that beautiful brown crust we all desire. Preheating your griddle properly will set the stage for a successful sear.
Additionally, avoid overcrowding the griddle with multiple steaks, as this can lower the temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing. Make sure that each steak has enough space to cook evenly. You can also avoid moving the steak too much; let it sit in place for a few minutes to allow for optimal browning before flipping. This technique will help you achieve the perfect sear each time.
Can I cook frozen steak on a Blackstone griddle?
While it is possible to cook frozen steak on a Blackstone griddle, it is not the recommended method for achieving the best results. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, as the exterior may overcook while the interior remains underdone. If you find yourself in a pinch, it’s better to sear the frozen steak first and then cook it on a lower heat setting, but be prepared for a texture and flavor that may not match that of a properly thawed and seasoned steak.
If you plan to cook steak often, consider planning ahead by thawing it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before grilling. This will allow for even cooking and better seasoning absorption, ensuring a juicier and tastier result. Always remember to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, regardless of whether the steak was frozen or freshly thawed.