Prosperity Acres Beef Cooking Guide

The Right Tools
– Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Ideal for even heat distribution.
– Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking internal temperatures.
– Tongs: For flipping steaks without piercing them, keeping juices inside.

Preparing Your Steak
1. Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 25 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking.
2. Dry and Season: Pat your steak dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Season generously with salt and pepper or your preferred spices.

Cooking Your Steak
1. Preheat Your Pan: Heat your skillet until very hot. Add a splash of cooking oil with a high smoke point, like extra virgin olive oil.
2. Place Your Steak: Carefully place your steak in the hot skillet. It should sizzle immediately.

Exact Temperatures for Doneness:
– Rare: 120-125°F (about 2-3 minutes per side)
– Medium Rare: 130-135°F (about 3-4 minutes per side)
– Medium: 140-145°F (about 4-5 minutes per side)
– Medium Well: 150-155°F (about 5-6 minutes per side)
– Well Done: 160-165°F (about 6-7 minutes per side)

Note: These times are for a 1-inch thick steak and should be adjusted based on thickness and starting temperature.

Timed Turns for Even Cooking:
– For 1-inch Thick Steaks: Flip every minute to ensure even cooking and a uniform crust. Use tongs to flip the steaks gently.
– For Thicker Steaks: Consider finishing in the oven if more than 1.5 inches thick, after searing on each side.

Resting Your Meat:
– Let it Rest: Once cooked to your desired doneness, transfer the steak to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy, flavorful steak.

Serving Your Steak:
– Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the muscle fibers makes your steak tender and easier to eat.

Additional Tips:
– Clean Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is clean and free of burnt bits to avoid smoke and burnt flavors.
– Avoid Overcrowding: Cook steaks one at a time or make sure they are not touching in the pan to ensure proper sear.

This guide is designed to empower you in your kitchen