How to cook the perfect steak
This guide shows you how to cook the perfect steak by searing beef fillets and finishing them in the oven, topped with herbed butter for rich flavors. Enjoy a juicy, tender steak enhanced with fresh herbs and seasoning.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
4 beef fillets beef fillet1/2 cup butter
2 tbsp chives
1 tbsp tarragon (estragon)
2 tsp mustard
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp capers
Cooking the perfect steak is a culinary art that can enhance your dining experience. By carefully selecting quality ingredients and following a reliable process, you can achieve a steak that is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. This guide will help you make a mouth-watering steak using a combination of butter, fresh herbs, and seasonings.
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped chives, tarragon, mustard, lemon zest, and capers.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the herbed butter into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate to firm up, or set it aside if you prefer a softer consistency.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Pat the beef fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil.
- Generously season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of olive oil to the pan.
- Sear each beef fillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
- Transfer the seared fillets to a baking sheet or keep them in the oven-safe skillet.
- Place the steaks in the preheated oven.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes for medium-rare (or until your desired doneness). Use a meat thermometer if available; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board.
- Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
- Slice the firmed-up herbed butter into rounds and place one on top of each rested fillet.
- The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a delicious sauce.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can cook a perfect steak that is sure to impress. Patience and attention to detail are key to achieving a beautifully seared, juicy, and flavorful steak. Enjoy your culinary creation and the satisfaction of having mastered the art of steak cooking.
How to cook the perfect steak FAQ:
For a medium-rare steak, sear the fillets for 2-3 minutes per side and then transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
Yes, you can substitute chives and tarragon with other fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, depending on your flavor preferences.
Leftover cooked steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan that is large enough to accommodate the fillets without overcrowding. A 12-inch skillet is typically a good size for 4 fillets.
If your steak becomes overcooked, consider slicing it thinly and using it in salads or sandwiches, or serve it with sauces to add moisture.
Tips:
- Choose high-quality beef fillets to ensure a tender and flavorful steak.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels before cooking to get a better sear.
- Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your pan to ensure it's hot enough to sear the steak properly.
- Avoid flipping the steak multiple times; instead, allow it to form a good crust on each side by flipping it only once.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for the desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- While the steak is resting, prepare the butter mixture by combining the butter, chives, tarragon, mustard, lemon zest, and capers.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 620kcal
Protein 60g
Carbohydrates 2.53g
Fiber 0.42g
Sugar 0.35g
Fat 40g
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