How Long Each Side Medium Rare Steak

So, You're Craving a Medium Rare Steak, Eh?

Picture this: You're at your favorite steakhouse, the aroma of sizzling meat wafting through the air, making your mouth water. You've decided tonight's the night you're going to treat yourself to a medium rare steak. But then, the question pops into your head - just how long should that juicy piece of perfection spend on the grill?

Well, grab a seat, because we're about to dive into the world of steak cooking times. Pour yourself a glass of your favorite red, and let's get started.

First Things First: What's Medium Rare?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cooking times, let's make sure we're on the same page. Medium rare is when your steak is cooked to an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C). It's that sweet spot where the steak is still pink in the middle, juicy, and tender. It's not raw, but it's not well-done either. It's the Goldilocks of steak temperatures - just right.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room. Should you be eating steak that's not cooked all the way through? That's a personal choice, and one that's been debated for ages. But if you're here, you're probably already a medium rare convert. So, let's focus on getting that perfect cook.

Thickness Matters

Alright, so you've got your steak, and you're ready to cook. But wait! Not so fast. The thickness of your steak plays a big role in how long it needs to cook. A 1-inch steak is going to cook much faster than a 2-inch one. So, if you're cooking a thick cut, you might want to consider starting it on the stove or in a cast-iron skillet first, then finishing it in the oven.

Why? Well, it's all about heat distribution. A thick steak needs more time to cook through, and if you're cooking it on the grill, the outside might burn before the inside is cooked to your liking. Starting it on the stove or in the oven helps to cook the steak more evenly.

Now, Let's Talk Times

Alright, you've got your steak, it's the right thickness, and you're ready to cook. Here are some approximate cooking times for a medium rare steak on a preheated grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat:

Steak Doneness—From Rare to Well

• 1-inch thick steak: about 4-5 minutes per side
• 1.5-inch thick steak: about 6-7 minutes per side
• 2-inch thick steak: about 8-10 minutes per side

Remember, these are just estimates. The actual cooking time can vary based on factors like the heat of your grill, the temperature of your steak when it goes on the grill, and even the humidity in the air. So, it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak.

Resting: The Secret Weapon

Alright, you've flipped your steak, you've waited the agonizing minutes, and it's finally done. But wait! Don't go cutting into it just yet. Let your steak rest for a few minutes before you dig in. This might seem counterintuitive, but trust me on this one.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it even more tender and flavorful. It also gives the steak's internal temperature a chance to stabilize. So, go ahead and set a timer for 5-10 minutes. I promise, it's worth the wait.

So, What's the Verdict?

There you have it, folks. The secret to the perfect medium rare steak is all in the timing. Well, that and a little patience. So, the next time you're craving a juicy, tender steak, you'll know just how long to leave it on the grill. Happy cooking!

Oh, and one more thing. Don't forget to season your steak. A good steak deserves a good seasoning. But that's a topic for another day.