The cooking time for frying beef steak depends on the desired level of doneness. Here's a guide based on the thickness of the steak and your preference:
Frying Times for a 22mm Thick Beef Steak
| Doneness | Time (each side) | Additional Time (each side, after searing) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 2 minutes | N/A |
| Medium-Rare | 3-4 minutes | N/A |
| Medium | 4-6 minutes | N/A |
| Well Done | 2-4 minutes | 4-6 minutes (at lower heat) |
Understanding Doneness Levels
- Rare: The steak will have a cool, red center.
- Medium-Rare: The steak will have a warm, red center.
- Medium: The steak will have a warm, pink center.
- Well Done: The steak will be cooked through with no pink.
Steps for Frying Beef Steak
- Preparation:
- Bring the steak to room temperature for even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Searing:
- Heat a pan over high heat.
- Add oil or butter to the pan.
- Sear the steak for the recommended time on each side based on your desired doneness.
- Additional Cooking (for Well Done):
- After searing, reduce the heat to low.
- Continue cooking for an additional 4-6 minutes on each side.
- Resting:
- Remove the steak from the pan.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips for Perfectly Fried Beef Steak
- Use a meat thermometer: For precise doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between steaks for even cooking.
- Season generously: Season the steak with salt, pepper, and other desired spices before cooking.
- Let it rest: Resting allows the steak to finish cooking and retain its juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
Example Scenario: Cooking a Medium-Rare Steak
To fry a 22mm thick steak to medium-rare, you would sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side over high heat. After searing, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
