Introduction
Ribeye steak is a popular meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The secret to cooking it perfectly is in the preparation and cooking process. Before you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful ribeye steak, you need to start with the right cut of meat and follow precise instructions. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to cook ribeye steak that’s sure to impress.
Selecting the right cut of meat
When looking for the perfect ribeye steak, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, it’s essential to look for well-marbled meat, which means there are visible white specks of fat throughout the steak. The fat gives the meat its rich flavor and tender texture. Ribeye steaks are cut from the rib section of a cow, so they’re naturally a fattier cut, which makes them more flavorful.
The second thing to consider is the quality of the meat. Certified Angus Beef and Prime grades are good choices when selecting a ribeye steak. These grades indicate that the cow was raised in good conditions and that the meat is top quality.
Finally, consider purchasing your ribeye steak from a reputable provider. A trusted local butcher can offer valuable advice on the best cut of meat to choose and how to cook it perfectly.
Step-by-step guide
To start cooking your ribeye steak, there are a few essential steps to follow.
Preparing the steak
Remove the ribeye steak from the fridge at least one hour before cooking it. Letting the meat come to room temperature will help it cook evenly. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture and to help it brown properly during the cooking process.
Seasoning the steak
Ribeye steak is delicious on its own, but seasoning it will enhance the flavor. Keep it simple by adding salt and pepper, or experiment with other spices that complement the steak. Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for a little extra flavor.
Cooking the steak
When it comes to cooking ribeye steak, there are different methods you can use. Grilling and pan-searing are popular options.
Grilling instructions
Prepping the grill
Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F. If using charcoal, wait until the coals turn white before cooking the steak.
Before placing the ribeye steak on the grill, season the grates with oil to prevent sticking and add flavor to the meat. Brush olive oil or vegetable oil with a high smoke point onto a paper towel, and then carefully rub the grates with the paper towel.
You can also add wood chips to your grill for extra flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before placing them on the coals or a smoker box to add a smoky flavor to your steak.
Tips for achieving perfect grill marks
To achieve perfect grill marks, place the ribeye steak on the grill at a 45-degree angle to the grates. After a minute or two, rotate the steak 90 degrees and leave it for another minute. Flip the steak and repeat on the other side.
After cooking for a few minutes, use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the steak. Aim for a temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium, and 145°F for medium-well.
Letting the steak rest
After taking the steak off the grill, let it rest for at least five minutes before cutting into it. This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb into the meat, ensuring a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Pan-searing
Choosing the right pan
When pan-searing ribeye steak, it’s essential to use a heavy-bottomed pan. A cast-iron skillet is a popular option as it conducts heat well and retains heat.
Preparing the skillet
Add a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to the skillet and heat it until it’s almost smoking. Add a few sprigs of thyme, garlic or rosemary to the oil for extra flavor.
Cooking the steak
When the skillet is hot, add the ribeye steak and let it sear on one side for 3-4 minutes. Don’t move it around in the skillet, as this will prevent a good crust from forming. Flip the steak and repeat on the other side.
Using the pan juices as a sauce
After cooking the steak, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, deglaze the pan by adding a liquid such as broth, wine, or vinegar to pull the browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. This results in a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the steak.
Marinating tips
Purpose of marinating
Marinating the ribeye steak can add flavor, tenderize the meat, and add moisture. Acidic marinades work well, such as those with lemon juice or vinegar, as they can break down the proteins in the meat and make it more tender.
Ideal length of time to marinate
The ideal length of time to marinate a ribeye steak is between 2-24 hours. Marinating for too long can make the meat go mushy.
Rubs and seasoning
Ideas for spices that go well with ribeye steak
Paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper are popular spices that work well with ribeye steak. When creating a rub, it’s important to balance the seasoning with salt and sugar to avoid over-seasoning.
The best rubs for a ribeye steak
A simple rub recipe for a ribeye steak is equal parts smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, along with a tablespoon of brown sugar. Rub the mixture into the steak before cooking.
Sides and accompaniments
Examples of side dishes that pair with ribeye steak
There are endless options when it comes to pairing sides with ribeye steak. Consider a light salad with acidic dressing to cut through the richness of the meat. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, or mashed potatoes and rice are also great options.
Cooking tips
Getting the perfect sear
To get the perfect sear, it’s essential to cook the ribeye steak on high heat. The grill or pan must be preheated so that when the meat is added, it sizzles immediately. Pat the steak dry before seasoning it, as moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear. Let the steak cook without moving it around too much, allowing the crust to develop.
Letting the steak rest
Letting the steak rest for at least five minutes after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, making it juicier and tenderer. If you cut into the steak too soon, the juices will run out and leave the steak dry.
Other important tips
When buying your steak, aim to get one that’s at least one inch thick. Thinner steaks cook too quickly and can easily overcook.
Never use a fork to turn the steak, as this can puncture the meat and cause the juices to leak out. Instead, use tongs or a spatula.
No matter how you choose to cook the ribeye steak, it’s important to let it come to room temperature before cooking it. This ensures even cooking and a juicy outcome.
Conclusion
Now that you have a detailed guide on how to cook a delicious ribeye steak, it’s time to get cooking. Remember to start with selecting the right cut of meat, and follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure a perfect outcome. Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings, marinades, and accompaniments to make the ribeye steak your own. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of cooking ribeye steak.
