INSIDE INFORMATION - 8 KEYS TO THE PERFECT STEAK…INDOORS.
We love to grill. But with the weather changing, it's not always an option. Don't worry. When your stove is the only thing standing between you and a juicy steak, you can still work your magic to get the perfect result. Here are eight things to keep in mind.
1. The meat matters. Whether you're in the mood for a rich, marbled rib-eye or a tender filet, quality counts. Especially when you're cooking something as simple as a steak. This goes for anytime – whether you're cooking inside or out.
2. Rule with an iron fist. Or at least a cast-iron skillet. This is key. These heavy pans get hot. Really hot – and they stay hot, allowing you to get that nice seared exterior on the meat. Find yourself nostalgic for those grill marks? Get a cast-iron grill pan.
3. Bring the heat. That pan needs to be screaming hot. Throw it in a 500-degree oven for a while, then when you're ready to cook, put it on the stove burner for a few minutes to get it even hotter. Remember to use an oven mitt – that handle will be scorching!
4. Stop cold. Take your steak out of the fridge ahead of time to bring it to room temperature before cooking. This will ensure even cooking.
5. Keep it pure and simple. This is where that quality meat pays off. Simply rub the steak with some oil and season it with plenty of coarse salt and pepper. That's all you need to make a perfect steak. Given the high temperatures, go with a vegetable oil or something else with a high smoking point.
6. Get cooking. Carefully place the meat in the hot skillet on high heat. That sizzle is a beautiful sound, isn't it? Let it cook (without moving it) until nice and brown, then flip and continue to cook until your desired doneness. This simple way for checking doneness without a thermometer is a favorite of ours.
7. Give it a rest. Let the meat rest for a bit when it comes out of the pan so all those juices can redistribute.
8. Pour it up. Now pour yourself some Malbec and dig in. Gascón Malbec in particular. Each glass offers a pleasantly rich mouthfeel and hints of spice, making it the ideal partner for that perfectly cooked steak.
