Savoring a perfectly grilled steak is a culinary delight that involves more than just quality meat and a hot grill. This guide covers the essentials of selecting the right cut of meat, emphasizing well-marbled options that ensure flavor and juiciness. Preparation is critical, including bringing the steak to room temperature and properly salting it. High heat grilling techniques and understanding doneness levels are crucial for achieving a delicious crust while maintaining juiciness. Additionally, the article reviews top gas grills and charcoal options to enhance the grilling experience.
Mastering the Art of Grilling a Steak
For many, savoring a perfectly grilled steak is the ultimate culinary experience. However, achieving that ideal steak requires more than just a sizzling grill and quality meat. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips on how to prepare a steak that will leave your guests in awe, focusing on the right meat selection, preparation methods, and grilling techniques.
Selecting the Ideal Cut of Meat
The journey to a great steak begins with choosing the right cut. Various meats such as beef, lamb, pork, and veal are all fantastic options for grilling. Look for cuts that boast a rich, dark red hue and are well-marbled, as this fat distribution enhances both flavor and juiciness. Aim for a thickness of at least three to five centimeters for the best grilling results.
Reading Tip: Discover the Surprising Results of Our Meat Grilling Test
Essential Preparation Steps
Proper preparation is crucial before your steak hits the grill. Remove the meat from the refrigerator about two hours prior to cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
A common debate among grilling enthusiasts is whether to salt the steak before cooking. Many culinary experts suggest salting the steak approximately 15 minutes before grilling. Utilize fine salt flakes for even distribution and a beautiful crust. If your grill grate is clean and preheated, you can skip oiling the steak.
Below, we showcase a selection of top gas grills to elevate your grilling game.
Gas Grills Comparison (A Selection from 19 Models)
Test Winner
Price Tip
Smartest Grill
Best Equipment
1.0 (Very Good)
1.9 (Good)
1.1 (Very Good)
1.3 (Very Good)
1.0 (Very Good)
2.4 (Good)
1.7 (Good)
1.0 (Very Good)
2.4 (Good)
2.9 (Satisfactory)
1.0 (Very Good)
2.4 (Good)
3
3
4
3
2,559 cm²
2,982 cm²
2,745 cm²
3,009 cm²
26 cm
25 cm
26 cm
25 cm
Food Container, Cutting Board, Drawers, Smoker Box, Bottle Opener
–
Cast Iron Insert (Sear Grate)
Food Container, Cutting Board, Drawers, Smoker Box, Bottle Opener, Kitchen Roll Holder
1,249 €
(Amazon Marketplace: BURNHARD)
350 €
(Amazon Marketplace: clictrade)
849 €
(Globus DIY Store)
719 €
(Amazon Marketplace: BURNHARD)
The Perfect Grilling Technique: High Heat for Flavorful Results
To grill the perfect steak, starting with a high temperature is essential. This high heat creates a delicious crust and activates the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for those mouthwatering roasting aromas. Begin by placing the steak directly over the heat source, grilling it with the lid closed for about three to four minutes on each side. Use grill tongs to turn the steak to retain its juices.
After achieving a good sear, move the steak to the indirect heat area of the grill to reach your desired internal temperature. Aim for a maximum temperature of 120 degrees. A meat thermometer is your best friend here; for a ‘medium rare’ steak, the target temperature is approximately 54 degrees. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.
Understanding Doneness Levels:
Choosing the Best Grilling Charcoal
Below, we highlight some of the finest grilling charcoals available. Dive into our detailed test report for more insights.
The Top Grilling Charcoal Options
Test Winner
Price Tip
Test Winner Briquette
Test Winner Coconut Briquette
Profagus Charcoal The Summer Hit
DHG Flammenco Quality Grill Charcoal
Profagus Grillis Organic Beech Grill Charcoal Briquettes
Weber Coconut Shell Briquettes
GOOD (Grade 1.7)
GOOD (Grade 2.3)
GOOD (Grade 1.8)
GOOD (Grade 2.4)
approx. 3.30 Euro
approx. 1.70 Euro
approx. 2.70 Euro
approx. 2.50 Euro
good
satisfactory
good
satisfactory
very good
very good
very good
Beech
Acacia
Beech