Are you ready to take your steak game to the next level? Cooking a medium well steak on a Blackstone griddle is a true art form, but with the right techniques and a little bit of practice, you'll be able to achieve steakhouse-quality results in the comfort of your own backyard. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know to cook a delicious medium well steak on your Blackstone griddle, from choosing the right cut of meat to cleaning up after dinner. So grab your apron, fire up your griddle, and let's get cooking!
Preparing the Blackstone Griddle for Cooking
The first step in cooking a perfect medium well steak on your Blackstone griddle is preparing it properly. Start by cleaning your griddle thoroughly with a mixture of soap and warm water, and then dry it with a towel or paper towels. Next, season the griddle with a high-heat cooking oil, like vegetable or canola oil, and spread it evenly across the surface with a paper towel or brush. Preheat the griddle to high temperature, and let it heat up for at least 10 minutes before you start cooking your steak. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Once your griddle is preheated, it's time to start cooking your steak. Place the steak on the griddle and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the griddle when it reaches your desired temperature.
After cooking your steak, it's important to clean your griddle again. Use a scraper or spatula to remove any leftover food or debris, and then wipe the griddle down with a damp cloth. If there are any stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the griddle clean. Once the griddle is clean, season it again with oil to prevent rusting and keep it in good condition for your next cooking session.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak for Medium-Well
The next step in cooking a perfect medium well steak is choosing the right cut of meat. Some good choices for medium-well include sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak. Look for steaks that are between 1 and 1 ½ inches thick, as thinner steaks can easily overcook and become dry. Let your steak come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Season the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides, then use a meat thermometer to ensure you're cooking it to the right temperature.
It's important to note that the marbling of the steak can also affect the final result. Marbling refers to the small streaks of fat within the meat, which can add flavor and tenderness. For a medium-well steak, look for a cut with moderate marbling, as too much fat can cause flare-ups on the grill or pan. Additionally, consider the source of the meat, as grass-fed beef may have a different flavor profile than grain-fed beef. Experiment with different cuts and sources to find your perfect medium-well steak.
Seasoning the Steak for Optimal Flavor
One of the secrets to cooking a mouthwatering medium well steak on your Blackstone griddle is using the right seasoning. While salt and pepper are certainly essential, you can take your steak to the next level by adding other spices and herbs to the mix. Try using garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for an extra kick of flavor. You can also add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to infuse the steak with aromatic notes. Whatever seasoning you choose, make sure to rub it into the steak well on both sides.
Another important factor to consider when seasoning your steak is the timing. It's best to season your steak at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you're short on time, you can also season the steak right before cooking, but keep in mind that the flavors may not be as pronounced. Additionally, make sure to let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to fully develop.
Preheating the Griddle to the Perfect Temperature
The key to a perfectly cooked medium well steak is getting your Blackstone griddle to the right temperature. You want it to be hot enough to sear the outside of the steak and create a nice crust, but not so hot that it burns the steak or cooks it too quickly on the outside while still raw on the inside. Aim for a temperature of around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. You can test the temperature by sprinkling some water on the griddle - if it sizzles and evaporates immediately, your griddle is ready.
It's important to note that preheating your griddle can take some time, especially if you're using a larger model. Plan to preheat your griddle for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking your steak. This will ensure that the griddle is evenly heated and ready to cook your steak to perfection.
Another tip for preheating your griddle is to use a high smoke point oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, to help prevent sticking and ensure a nice sear on your steak. Simply pour a small amount of oil onto the griddle and spread it evenly with a paper towel or brush before preheating.
Searing the Steak on High Heat
Once your steak is seasoned and your griddle is preheated to the right temperature, it's time to start cooking. Place the steak on the griddle and let it sear for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving it. This will create a nice crust on the outside of the steak. Then, flip the steak over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If you want a more even cook, you can turn the steak over every minute or so until it's cooked to your liking. Avoid pressing down on the steak with a spatula or meat fork, as this will release the juices and make the steak dry.
It's important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. You can tent the steak with foil to keep it warm while it rests. Once it's rested, slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Flipping and Cooking the Steak to Medium-Well Perfection
To cook your steak to medium well on your Blackstone griddle, you'll need to watch it carefully and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature you're aiming for is around 150-155 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the steak. If you're not sure how to use a meat thermometer, simply insert it into the thickest part of the steak and wait for the temperature to register. Once the steak reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it.
It's important to note that flipping the steak too often can result in a tougher texture. To avoid this, only flip the steak once or twice during the cooking process. Additionally, make sure to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Resting and Cutting the Steak for Maximum Juiciness
Resting your steak after cooking is crucial to ensuring maximum juiciness and tenderness. When you take the steak off the griddle, cover it with foil or a lid and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute inside the steak. When you're ready to cut, slice against the grain for optimal tenderness. Serve the steak with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Another important factor in achieving a juicy steak is the thickness of the cut. Thicker cuts of steak will require a longer resting time to allow the juices to redistribute properly. A good rule of thumb is to rest the steak for 1 minute per ½ inch of thickness.
Additionally, the temperature of the steak before cooking can also affect its juiciness. It's best to let the steak come to room temperature before cooking, as this will help it cook more evenly and retain its juices. Simply take the steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and let it sit on the counter.
Tips for Achieving a Perfectly Cooked Medium-Well Steak Every Time
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when cooking medium well steak on your Blackstone griddle: use a high-quality meat thermometer and check the temperature frequently, avoid overcrowding the griddle, and let the steak rest before serving. These simple steps will help ensure that your steak always comes out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.
Another important tip to remember when cooking medium-well steak is to season it generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This will help enhance the natural flavors of the meat and create a delicious crust on the outside. Additionally, make sure to preheat your griddle to a high temperature before adding the steak to ensure a nice sear. By following these tips, you'll be able to impress your guests with a perfectly cooked medium-well steak every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings with Medium-Well Steak
Medium well steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also add a sauce or topping to your steak for an extra flavor boost, like chimichurri, garlic butter, or red wine reduction. When it comes to beverages, red wine is a classic pairing for steak, but you can also try a craft beer or a refreshing cocktail.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle After Cooking
Cleaning your Blackstone griddle after cooking is easy, but it's important to do it properly to ensure its longevity. Start by scraping off any excess food with a scraper or spatula, and then wipe down the surface with a rag or paper towel. If the grime is caked on, you can use a combination of water and soap to clean the griddle, but never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as these can damage the surface. After cleaning, season the griddle again with a light coating of oil to prevent rust and maintain the non-stick surface.
Now that you know all the steps for cooking a perfect medium well steak on your Blackstone griddle, it's time to put your skills to the test. With a little bit of practice and some attention to detail, you'll be impressing your guests with perfectly cooked steaks in no time. So fire up that griddle and get cooking!
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