If there’s one thing Gordon Ramsay knows how to do well, it’s cook a steak. As one of the most renowned chefs in the world, Ramsay has perfected his technique over the years and has become known for his delicious, perfectly cooked steaks. So what is his secret?
Ramsay believes that the key to cooking a great steak lies in the quality of the meat. He always insists on using the best cuts of beef, preferably prime cuts that are well-marbled with fat. This marbling not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the steak tender and juicy during cooking.
When it comes to seasoning, Ramsay keeps it simple. He prefers to season his steak with just salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through. He generously seasons both sides of the steak just before cooking, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Ramsay also emphasizes the importance of getting a good sear on the steak. He recommends using a hot pan with a little bit of oil and placing the steak in the pan, pressing it down to ensure even contact with the heat. This helps to create a nice crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Overall, Ramsay’s approach to cooking steak is all about simplicity and letting the quality of the meat shine through. By using the best cuts of beef, seasoning with just salt and pepper, and getting a good sear, you too can cook a steak that would make Gordon Ramsay proud.
About Gordon Ramsay
Gordon Ramsay, born on November 8th, 1966, is a British chef, television personality, and restaurateur. He is best known for his fiery temperament and his highly successful career in the culinary world.
Ramsay’s passion for cooking started at a young age when he decided to pursue a career in the culinary arts. After training in French cuisine, he worked under renowned chefs such as Marco Pierre White and Albert Roux, honing his skills and developing his own unique style of cooking.
In the late 1990s, Ramsay opened his first restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, in Chelsea, London. It quickly earned three Michelin stars and became one of the most celebrated dining establishments in the world. Ramsay went on to open several more successful restaurants across the globe, including in the United States, Dubai, and Singapore.
Aside from his successful restaurant empire, Ramsay is also a prominent television personality. He has starred in several cooking shows, including “Hell’s Kitchen,” “MasterChef,” and “Kitchen Nightmares.” Known for his tough love approach and blunt criticism, Ramsay has gained a reputation as a no-nonsense chef who demands excellence from those around him.
In addition to his culinary endeavors and television career, Ramsay is also a prolific author. He has written numerous cookbooks, which have become bestsellers worldwide. His books showcase his talent for creating innovative and delicious dishes, while also providing practical tips and techniques for aspiring home cooks.
Over the years, Gordon Ramsay has become one of the most recognizable and influential figures in the culinary world. His passion for cooking, dedication to his craft, and relentless drive for perfection have earned him numerous accolades and a loyal following of fans and aspiring chefs.
The Perfect Steak
When it comes to cooking steak, Gordon Ramsay is a true master. His technique and attention to detail ensure that every steak he cooks is perfect. Here are the steps he follows to achieve that perfect steak:
1. Choose the Right Cut: The first step in cooking the perfect steak is choosing the right cut. Gordon Ramsay recommends using cuts like ribeye, T-bone, or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
2. Seasoning: Seasoning the steak is crucial to enhance its natural flavors. Gordon Ramsay suggests sprinkling both sides of the steak with salt and pepper, and pressing the seasoning into the meat.
3. Preparing the Pan: Gordon Ramsay prefers cooking steak in a hot pan to achieve a caramelized crust. He recommends preheating the pan until it’s smoking hot before adding the steak.
4. Cooking Time: The cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Gordon Ramsay follows the rule of cooking the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side for a medium-rare doneness.
5. Resting: After cooking, it’s important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
6. Serving: Gordon Ramsay suggests serving the perfect steak with a knob of butter on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. He also recommends pairing it with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato.
By following these steps, you can also achieve the perfect steak, just like Gordon Ramsay. Remember to pay attention to the details and enjoy the process of cooking this delicious dish!
Selecting the Meat
When it comes to cooking the perfect steak, selecting the right cut of meat is essential. Gordon Ramsay recommends using a prime cut of beef, such as ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip. These cuts are known for their tenderness, marbling, and flavor.
It is important to choose a steak that has a good amount of marbling, which refers to the white streaks of fat running throughout the meat. The marbling adds flavor and helps keep the steak moist during cooking. Ramsay suggests looking for steaks with a rich, red color and firm texture.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a steak is its thickness. Ramsay prefers steaks that are at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This allows for a juicy and tender steak, as it gives the chef more control over the cooking process.
Preparation and Seasoning
Before cooking steak, Gordon Ramsay emphasizes the importance of proper preparation and seasoning. He believes that the quality of the steak itself is crucial, so it’s essential to choose a good cut of meat. Ramsay recommends using prime cuts such as ribeye, fillet, or New York strip.
To prepare the steak, Ramsay advises removing it from the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to cook more evenly. Additionally, he suggests patting the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Next, Ramsay emphasizes generously seasoning the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. He prefers using Maldon sea salt for its flavor and texture. The salt helps to draw out the moisture from the meat, enhancing its flavor.
Marinade
While some chefs choose to marinate their steak, Ramsay believes that a well-seasoned piece of meat does not need a marinade. He prefers to let the natural flavors stand out without any additional flavors from a marinade.
Resting
After seasoning the steak, Ramsay recommends letting it rest for a few minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhances the flavor. During this time, the salt starts to dissolve and creates a brine, which helps to further season the steak and make it juicier.
In summary, preparing and seasoning a steak according to Gordon Ramsay’s method involves choosing a prime cut of meat, letting it come to room temperature, patting it dry, generously seasoning it with salt and pepper, and letting it rest before cooking. These steps help to ensure a perfectly seasoned and flavorful steak.
Cooking Techniques
Gordon Ramsay utilizes a variety of cooking techniques to achieve the perfect steak. Here are some of the key techniques he uses:
Searing: Ramsay begins by searing the steak in a hot pan. This helps to create a flavorful crust and lock in the juices.
Basting: While the steak is cooking, Ramsay constantly bastes it with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs. This adds additional flavor and keeps the steak moist.
Resting: After cooking, Ramsay lets the steak rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Grilling: In addition to using a pan, Ramsay also grills his steak. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and creates beautiful grill marks.
Seasoning: Ramsay keeps the seasoning simple with just salt and pepper. This allows the natural flavor of the steak to shine through.
Temperature Control: Ramsay pays close attention to the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. This ensures that the steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
Resting: Finally, Ramsay lets the steak rest again after it is cooked. This allows the meat to relax and ensures that it remains juicy when served.
By employing these techniques, Gordon Ramsay is able to consistently cook a delicious and perfectly cooked steak.
Serving and Presentation
Once your steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and present it in an appetizing way. Gordon Ramsay believes that the presentation of a dish is just as important as its taste. Here are some tips to help you make your steak one to remember:
1. Resting the Steak
After cooking, it’s crucial to let your steak rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Place the cooked steak on a warm plate and cover it loosely with foil.
2. Slicing and Plating
Before slicing the steak, it’s important to cut against the grain. Cutting against the grain helps to break up the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Slice the steak into thin, even slices and arrange them on a warm plate.
When plating your steak, presentation is key. Use a clean plate and arrange the steak slices neatly, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You can garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color.
To enhance the overall presentation, you can also drizzle a flavorful sauce over the steak or serve it on the side in a small sauceboat. This adds a touch of elegance and allows the diner to customize their experience.
Remember, a well-presented steak not only looks appetizing but also shows the care and attention to detail that went into its preparation. So take your time to plate it beautifully and enjoy the final product!
Questions and answers
What is Gordon Ramsay’s method for cooking steak?
Gordon Ramsay’s method for cooking steak involves seasoning the steak with salt and pepper, searing it in a hot pan with olive oil, adding butter and garlic while cooking, and continuously basting the steak with the melted butter. He also suggests resting the steak for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Should I season the steak before or after cooking it?
Gordon Ramsay recommends seasoning the steak with salt and pepper before cooking it. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavor. It is important to season the steak evenly on both sides.
What type of pan should I use to cook the steak?
Gordon Ramsay suggests using a heavy-based frying pan or skillet to cook the steak. It should be preheated until it is very hot, as this will help achieve a good sear on the steak. Cast iron pans are often preferred for their ability to evenly distribute heat.
How long should I cook the steak for?
The cooking time for a steak will vary depending on its thickness and desired level of doneness. As a general guide, a 1-inch thick steak cooked to medium-rare will take around 4-5 minutes on each side. However, it is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, or 170°F (77°C) for well-done.