Unlock Flavor: Cook Perfect Steak Without Olive Oil

Cooking the perfect steak can often feel daunting, especially when faced with the risk of overcooking or ending up with a tough texture. According to the well-known cook known as the Halal Food Guy, avoiding olive oil may be the key to achieving a more flavorful and perfectly seared steak. Instead, he suggests using oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil.

The method begins with allowing the steak to reach room temperature before cooking. Taking the steak out of the refrigerator about an hour prior to cooking ensures even cooking, preventing the outside from overcooking while the inside remains underdone. Additionally, drying the steak with a paper towel before seasoning is crucial. Any moisture left on the surface can cause the steak to steam rather than sear, negatively impacting its flavor and texture.

Essential Ingredients and Preparation Steps

To prepare a delicious steak, you will need the following ingredients:

– Steak
– Two tablespoons of avocado or vegetable oil
– Two tablespoons of butter
– Minced garlic
– Salt and pepper

Once your ingredients are ready, season the steak with salt, allowing it to draw out moisture and enhance flavor. It is advisable to hold off on adding black pepper at this stage, as it can burn during cooking. After seasoning, let the steak rest for another ten minutes and pat it dry again to remove any excess moisture.

Next, drizzle a small amount of your chosen oil onto the steak and rub it in. Heat a pan on high until it is hot and the oil begins to sizzle. Place the steak in the pan without moving it, pressing down slightly to help form a crust. Cook undisturbed for approximately three to four minutes before flipping the steak.

After the initial sear, allow the steak to cook for an additional minute. Then, reduce the heat and add a generous portion of butter and minced garlic to the pan. The butter should be used for flavoring rather than cooking, as it has a lower smoke point. Tilt the pan to coat the meat as the butter melts, continuing this for around four minutes.

For those aiming for a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should reach around 53°C, while a medium steak will require reaching approximately 58°C. Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and season with pepper. Allow it to rest for five minutes, a crucial step that ensures the juices redistribute evenly throughout the meat.

Enjoying Your Perfectly Cooked Steak

The result of this method is a steak with a golden-brown crust and a juicy, tender interior. By choosing the right cooking oil and following these simple steps, anyone can master the art of cooking steak. With the guidance of the Halal Food Guy, steak lovers can elevate their culinary skills, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.