Mastering The Perfect Certified Angus Beef Steak

Are you a steak lover who wants to impress their guests with the perfect Certified Angus Beef steak? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect cut of meat, preparing it flawlessly, and cooking it to perfection. We’ll start by discussing how to select the right Certified Angus Beef steak for your cooking needs, taking into account factors like marbling and aging. Then, we’ll walk you through the essential steps for preparing your steak, including seasoning and resting. Finally, we’ll help you determine the level of doneness you desire for your steak, providing tips and tricks for achieving the perfect result every time. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of cooking the perfect Certified Angus Beef steak.

How To Select The Perfect Certified Angus Beef Steak For Cooking?

Selecting the perfect Certified Angus Beef steak for cooking involves a few key considerations:

1. Cut: Different cuts of beef have varying levels of tenderness, flavor, and fat content. Popular cuts for steaks include ribeye, striploin (also known as New York strip), and tenderloin (also known as filet mignon). Consider what type of flavor and texture you prefer in your steak and choose a cut accordingly.

2. Grade: Look for beef that is graded Choice or Prime. Certified Angus Beef is a brand of beef that is always of at least Choice grade, and often of Prime grade.

3. Marbling: Marbling refers to the amount of intramuscular fat in the meat, which contributes to tenderness, flavor, and juiciness. Look for steaks with visible marbling throughout the meat.

4. Color: A bright red color with a small amount of marbling is a good indicator of high-quality beef. Avoid beef that is grayish in color or has a strong odor.

5. Thickness: Thicker steaks are easier to cook to your desired level of doneness without overcooking or drying out the meat. Aim for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick.

6. Source: Look for beef from a reputable source, preferably from a local butcher or grocer. Certified Angus Beef is sold at many supermarkets and specialty meat markets.

By considering these factors and selecting a high-quality Certified Angus Beef steak that meets your preferences, you can ensure that you are cooking a delicious and satisfying meal.

What Are The Essential Steps For Preparing A Perfect Certified Angus Beef Steak?

1. Eliminate The Excess Moisture. To prepare the steak, take it out of its packaging and use a paper towel to remove any excess juice and moisture from its surface. This is important because excess moisture can create steam during cooking, which can hinder browning.

2. Season Your Steak In Advance With Salt. Dry brining is the process of salting meat 2-12 hours before cooking. When salt is applied, it draws out moisture from the meat, which appears on the surface of the steaks. As time passes, the moisture reabsorbs back into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. To dry brine, use kosher salt at least an hour before cooking and add a binder such as your preferred oil.

3. Allow Your Steak To Come To Room Temperature. This is particularly beneficial when cooking thick steaks. It’s recommended to let them rest for at least 30 minutes before grilling, but if you’ve dry brined your steak, allowing it to rest for an hour is even better.

4. Preheat The Grill. Ensure that your grill is heated to at least 550°F to facilitate browning (medium-high heat). If necessary, grease the grill grates. If you’re using a cast iron pan, preheat it too. It’s essential to have a hot pan!

5. Searing Your Angus Beef Steak. To grill your steaks, position them directly over the flame on the grill grate. Sear each side of the steaks for approximately 60-90 seconds (adjust as necessary for thicker cuts) to achieve appealing grill marks. Cook the steaks until they reach your desired level of doneness; for instance, I suggest medium-rare, which is achieved when the temperature of the steaks reaches 125°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steaks are cooked perfectly.

6. Rest Steak Before Slicing. During the resting period, you can enhance the flavor of your steak by adding a few tablespoons of butter and fresh herbs on top. Cover the steak with foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes.

Slicing & Serving:

Here are some straightforward tips for slicing and serving your steak:

• Slicing against the grain
• Slice thinly to achieve a more tender texture.
• Add extra coarse salt to the slices, if desired.
• Try preparing smoked garlic confit to complement the dish.

How To Determine The Level Of Doneness For A Certified Angus Beef Steak Accurately?

To determine the level of doneness for a Certified Angus Beef steak accurately, you can follow these general guidelines:

1. Use A Meat Thermometer: The most accurate way to determine the level of doneness for a steak is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and read the temperature.

2. Learn The Touch Method: With experience, you can learn the touch method, which involves pressing the steak with your finger to determine the level of doneness. A rare steak will be soft and squishy, a medium steak will have some resistance, and a well-done steak will be firm.

3. Use A Timer: If you’re cooking multiple steaks of the same size, you can use a timer to ensure that they are all cooked to the desired level of doneness. Start the timer when you place the steaks on the grill or in the oven and remove them when the appropriate amount of time has passed.

4. Cut Into The Steak: Cutting into the steak can help you determine the level of doneness, but it’s not the most accurate method. A rare steak will be red and cool in the center, a medium steak will have a pink center, and a well-done steak will be brown and hot all the way through. However, cutting into the steak can release juices, which can make it dry.

It’s important to note that the cooking time and temperature will vary depending on the thickness of the steak, the cooking method, and other factors. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to the appropriate level of doneness.

Our Final Thoughts

In conclusion, cooking the perfect Certified Angus Beef steak is an art that requires attention to detail, patience, and a bit of practice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you select the right cut of meat, prepare it flawlessly, and cook it to your desired level of doneness. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, with a little bit of know-how and the right techniques, you can achieve a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy steak every time. So, fire up your grill or heat up your skillet and get ready to impress your guests with the perfect Certified Angus Beef steak.