The Perfect Medium-Rare Ribeye or Strip Loin Steak: A Guide for Grill Masters

When it comes to grilling a steak, the key to achieving the perfect medium-rare ribeye or strip loin is mastering the art of temperature and time. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to grill the ultimate medium-rare steak, ensuring you have a succulent and juicy result every time.

Understanding the Cooking Process

Grilling a steak is not a one-size-fits-all process. Some prefer high heat followed by a reduction in heat, while others, like myself, stick to medium heat and only flip the steak once. The time required for grilling can vary based on the thickness of the steak, but ultimately, practice will help achieve perfection.

Grilling Techniques

For a medium-rare steak, the suggested cooking time is around 9 to 12 minutes. Specifically, for a 1-inch steak cut, we recommend cooking it for 9 to 12 minutes on the grill, turning it about halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 130°F, which can be monitored with a meat thermometer.

A lesser-known method involves preheating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and pan-searing the steak in a cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan on medium-high heat for a brief moment before transferring it to the oven. This method ensures a consistently high degree of doneness throughout the steak.

Putting It All Together

The steps to achieve the perfect medium-rare ribeye or strip loin steak are as follows:

Preheat the grill or oven to a high temperature. Season your steak generously with salt and pepper for flavor. Grill or pan-sear the steak for about 1 minute per side on a high heat to achieve a nice crust. Transfer the steak to a preheated oven or finish it on the grill at lower heat if you prefer the oven method, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the heat to allow the juices to redistribute.

The Importance of Resting

Resting your steak is a crucial step that many home cooks often overlook. By letting the steak rest for 5 minutes, you ensure that the juices have time to redistribute, resulting in a much more tender and flavorful steak. During this resting period, cover the steak lightly with foil to maintain the temperature.

Enhancing Flavor with Cilantro Butter

No medium-rare ribeye or strip loin is complete without a side of cilantro butter. This simple yet flavorful condiment adds the perfect touch to your grilled steak, enhancing its taste and texture. Just melt some butter and mix in fresh cilantro, garlic, and a bit of lemon juice for a refreshing and zesty flavor. Spread it over the steak before serving to complete the dining experience.

Grilling a perfect medium-rare ribeye or strip loin steak is an art that, with practice and attention to detail, can be mastered. Whether you prefer the straightforward grilling method or the oven-searing technique, the key is to achieve the perfect 130°F internal temperature and let the steak rest before serving. Enjoy the delicious process and the reward of a beautifully grilled medium-rare steak every time.