Olivia Carter
If you want to impress your friends and family with a perfectly cooked steak, then using a ribbed cast iron skillet is the way to go. Not only does it add those beautiful grill marks to your steak, but it also retains and distributes heat evenly, resulting in a mouthwatering, juicy piece of meat.
Before you start cooking, make sure to choose a good quality ribbed cast iron skillet. Look for one that is well-seasoned, as this will help prevent your steak from sticking to the pan. If you don’t have a ribbed cast iron skillet, you can use a regular cast iron skillet or a grill pan, but the ribbed surface will give your steak that signature grill flavor and look.
Next, take your steak out of the refrigerator and season it generously with salt and pepper. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will help the steak cook more evenly and result in a juicier steak.
Once your steak is ready, heat your ribbed cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be hot, but not smoking. Place the steak on the ribbed surface and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak. Use tongs to flip the steak, as using a fork can cause the juices to escape and result in a dry steak.
Remember to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the steak to steam instead of sear. If you are cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to ensure they cook evenly. Once your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a tender and succulent steak.
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet, you can enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home. So fire up that skillet, grab your favorite cut of steak, and get cooking!
Choosing the Right Steak
When it comes to cooking steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet, choosing the right cut of meat is essential. The quality and flavor of your steak will depend on the type of steak you select.
Here are a few popular cuts of steak that work well in a ribbed cast iron skillet:
- Ribeye: Ribeye steak is known for its rich marbling and delicious flavor. It is a tender cut of meat that cooks beautifully in a ribbed cast iron skillet.
- Sirloin: Sirloin steak is a leaner cut of beef that still offers great flavor. It is a versatile option that can be cooked to different levels of doneness.
- New York Strip: New York strip steak is a popular choice for steak lovers. It has a nice balance of tenderness and flavor, making it an excellent option for cooking in a ribbed cast iron skillet.
- T-bone: T-bone steak is a two-in-one steak, with a tenderloin on one side and a New York strip on the other. This cut is perfect for those who enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in their steak.
When selecting your steak, look for cuts that are well-marbled, with a good amount of fat running through the meat. This fat will help keep the steak tender and juicy during the cooking process.
Additionally, consider the thickness of your steak. Thicker cuts will require more cooking time, while thinner cuts will cook faster. It’s important to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired level of doneness.
Lastly, choose steaks that are bright red in color and have a fresh smell. Avoid steaks that are discolored or have a foul odor, as this may indicate that the meat is not fresh.
Remember, selecting the right steak is the first step towards cooking a perfect steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet. Enjoy experimenting with different cuts and flavors to create a steak that suits your taste preferences.
Preparing the Ribbed Cast Iron Skillet
Before cooking steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet, it’s important to properly prepare the skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Follow these steps to prepare your skillet:
1. Clean the skillet
Start by cleaning the ribbed cast iron skillet with hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid using soap, as it can remove the skillet’s seasoning. Scrub away any food residue or grease to ensure a clean cooking surface.
2. Dry thoroughly
After cleaning, dry the skillet thoroughly with a clean towel or by heating it over low heat on the stove. Ensuring the skillet is completely dry will help prevent it from rusting.
3. Season the skillet
Next, apply a thin layer of oil to the ribbed surface of the skillet. Use a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Apply the oil using a paper towel or a brush, making sure to coat the entire ribbed surface evenly.
4. Preheat the skillet
Once the skillet is seasoned, preheat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Allow it to heat for a few minutes until it reaches the desired temperature. Preheating the skillet will help sear the steak and create a delicious crust.
By properly preparing your ribbed cast iron skillet, you’ll be ready to cook the perfect steak with beautiful grill marks and incredible flavor.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking the steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance the flavor.
Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear on the meat.
Next, generously sprinkle both sides of the steak with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will not only season the steak, but also help to draw out moisture, resulting in a better crust.
For additional flavor, you can add some minced garlic, dried herbs, or a steak seasoning blend of your choice. Rub the seasoning into the steak, ensuring that it adheres well.
Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the salt and seasonings to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavor.
Remember, seasoning is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings according to your taste.
Cooking the Steak
Before cooking the steak, make sure it is at room temperature, as this will help ensure even cooking. Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper, or any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Preheat your ribbed cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. You want the skillet to be hot before adding the steak.
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the seasoned steak onto the ribbed surface. Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, or until it develops a nice sear and easily releases from the pan.
Flipping the Steak
Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to the other side. You should see beautiful grill marks from the ribbed surface. Cook the steak for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C), while a medium steak should reach 145°F (63°C). Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook as it rests, so it’s okay to remove it from the skillet a few degrees below your desired doneness.
Resting and Serving the Steak
Remove the cooked steak from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board or plate. Allow the steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the steak to retain its juices and ensures a more tender and juicy result.
After the resting time, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it hot and enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Flipping and Finishing the Steak
Once you’ve seared one side of the steak to perfection, it’s time to flip it over and finish cooking the other side. Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the steak. Be cautious as the hot pan and sizzling oils can cause splattering.
After flipping the steak, you can continue to cook it on the stovetop or transfer it to the oven to finish cooking. If you prefer a rare or medium-rare steak, it’s generally best to keep cooking it on the stovetop. For a medium or well-done steak, transferring it to the oven can help ensure even cooking throughout.
For stovetop cooking, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook the steak for an additional 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a rare steak, the thermometer should read 125°F (52°C), medium-rare should be around 135°F (57°C), medium should be 145°F (63°C), and well-done should reach 160°F (71°C).
If you decide to finish cooking the steak in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) while the steak is searing on the stovetop. Once flipped, transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature as mentioned earlier.
Resting and serving
Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat source and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become more tender.
During the resting period, you can add a pat of butter on top of the steak to enhance its richness. Optionally, you can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, on top for added flavor.
After resting, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it hot and enjoy your perfectly cooked ribeye steak! Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes or sautéed vegetables, to complete the meal.
Monitoring the Temperature
One of the most important steps in cooking the perfect steak is monitoring the temperature. With a ribbed cast iron skillet, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the heat to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
To monitor the temperature, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak while it’s cooking. The internal temperature will give you an idea of how well the steak is cooked.
Here’s a guide to help you gauge the doneness of your steak based on the internal temperature:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 120-130°F (49-54°C) |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) |
| Medium | 135-145°F (57-63°C) |
| Medium Well | 145-155°F (63-68°C) |
| Well Done | 155°F (68°C) and above |
Remember that the temperature of the steak will continue to rise after it’s removed from the heat, so it’s a good idea to take it off the skillet a few degrees below your desired doneness.
By monitoring the temperature of the steak, you can ensure that it’s cooked perfectly and to your liking every time you use a ribbed cast iron skillet.
Resting and Serving the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is important to let it rest before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Resting the Steak
Remove the cooked steak from the ribbed cast iron skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm while it rests. Let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time will give the steak a chance to relax and the juices to settle.
Slicing and Serving
After the steak has rested, remove the aluminum foil and use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain. Cutting against the grain helps to ensure a tender steak. Serve the sliced steak on a plate or platter, and garnish it with your preferred accompaniments, such as chimichurri sauce, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Remember to serve the steak immediately to enjoy it at its best. The resting period helps to retain the heat in the meat, but it is still best to serve the steak while it is warm.
FAQ
What is a ribbed cast iron skillet and why is it good for cooking steak?
A ribbed cast iron skillet is a type of skillet that has raised ridges on the cooking surface. It is good for cooking steak because the ridges create grill marks and help to sear the meat, giving it a delicious charred flavor.
What is the best type of steak to cook in a ribbed cast iron skillet?
The best type of steak to cook in a ribbed cast iron skillet is a thick cut steak, such as a ribeye or a New York strip. These cuts of steak are tender and juicy, and they cook well in the skillet.
How do I season a ribbed cast iron skillet?
To season a ribbed cast iron skillet, start by cleaning it thoroughly with hot water and a stiff brush. Then, dry the skillet completely and apply a thin, even layer of oil to the cooking surface. Place the skillet upside down in the oven and bake it at a high temperature for about an hour. This process will create a non-stick coating on the skillet.
What is the best way to cook a steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook a steak in a ribbed cast iron skillet is to start by preheating the skillet over medium-high heat. Rub the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook it for a few minutes on each side, until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
How do I clean a ribbed cast iron skillet after cooking steak?
To clean a ribbed cast iron skillet after cooking steak, start by letting the skillet cool completely. Then, use a stiff brush or a sponge to scrub away any stuck-on food particles. Rinse the skillet with hot water and dry it thoroughly. Avoid using soap or abrasive cleaners, as this can strip away the seasoning on the skillet.
