Ingredients:
- Steak (ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, etc.)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil or butter
- Optional: garlic, herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.)
Instructions:
1. **Select the Right Steak**: Choose a high-quality steak with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness. Popular choices include ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, and New York strip.
2. **Prep the Steak**: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the steak to cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. **Season the Steak**: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder or herbs like rosemary and thyme for extra flavor.
4. **Preheat the Skillet or Grill**: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or grill over medium-high heat. You want the skillet or grill to be hot before adding the steak to ensure a good sear.
5. **Add Oil or Butter**: Once the skillet or grill is hot, add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Swirl the oil or butter around to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
6. **Sear the Steak**: Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet or on the grill. Let the steak cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes to sear the first side. You should hear a sizzling sound when the steak hits the skillet or grill.
7. **Flip the Steak**: Use a pair of tongs to flip the steak to the other side. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
8. **Check for Doneness**: To check if the steak is cooked to your liking, use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
9. **Rest the Steak**: Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet or grill and transfer it to a plate. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
10. **Slice and Serve**: Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak! Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.