Choose the right steak. Rib-eye or flank, t-bone or top round – there’s a choice for every type of grill, fire, budget and taste.
Choose the right seasoning. Use rubs, marinades, sauces, butters and bastes to add an extra dimension of flavor. Even something as basic as sea salt and cracked black pepper adds a spectacular taste to beef.
Steaks partner deliciously with a world of interesting flavors – the possibilities are endless.
Build the right fire. Understand the difference between direct and indirect grilling and when to use each. Remember, every fuel and fire burn differently.
Cook it to perfection. It’s easy when coals and grill are the right temperature and you follow the basic cooking guidelines for the steak. (If the grill is too hot, the outside of the steak can overcook before the inside is ready; if too cold, you won’t get the right searing.)
Know when your steak is done. Remember medium rare is 145°F; medium 160°F and well done is 170°F. Use an instant-read meat thermometer or the “poke” test to check for doneness. An instant-read thermometer gives you the internal temperature immediately.
Turn, don’t stab. Tongs are the most important tool in the griller’s workshop, enabling you to turn the steak without stabbing it. Look for spring loaded, long-handled tongs – 14 to 16 inches.
Give it a rest. After grilling, give the steak a rest for a couple of minutes to let the juices redistribute before cutting into it. A drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter gives the steak a handsome sheen and spectacular flavor and finish.
Keep it clean! Always brush your grill grate with a stiff wire brush to clean it. (If you don’t have a brush, use a piece of crumpled foil.) Clean the grate after preheating, and again, after grilling. Oil the grate with a folded paper towel dipped in oil and rubbed over the bars of the grate. Food will stick to a dirty grate and you won’t get those snappy grill marks.
Grill safely. Make sure the grill rests securely on the ground, deck, patio, or other surface. Never leave a lit grill unattended; don’t use it indoors or in a garage or carport. Always keep children and pets at a safe distance.
