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December 10, 2024
If you’re a fan of juicy and flavorful steaks, then cooking a New York strip steak in a cast iron pan is the way to go. The high heat and even distribution of heat in a cast iron pan help to create a delicious crust on the outside of the steak, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this article will guide you through the process of cooking a perfect New York strip steak in a cast iron pan.
Choose the right steak: To ensure the best results, start with a high-quality New York strip steak. Look for steaks that have good marbling, as this indicates tenderness and flavor. It’s also important to choose steaks that are at least one inch thick, as thinner steaks can easily overcook.
Season the steak: Before cooking, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor, such as garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme. Make sure to coat both sides of the steak and gently press the seasonings into the meat.
Preheat the cast iron pan: Place a cast iron pan on the stovetop and preheat it over medium-high heat. It’s important to preheat the pan for at least 5 minutes to ensure that it’s hot enough to create a sear on the steak. You can test if the pan is hot enough by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface – if the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, the pan is ready.
Cook the steak: Carefully place the seasoned steak into the hot cast iron pan. Cook the steak for about 5-6 minutes on one side, or until a brown crust forms. Flip the steak and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is reached. For medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature.
Let it rest: After cooking, remove the steak from the cast iron pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. You can tent the steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm during the resting period.
Serve and enjoy: Slice the steak against the grain and serve it immediately. New York strip steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle the steak with the delicious juices that have accumulated during the resting period. Enjoy your perfectly cooked New York strip steak!
Steps to Perfectly Cook New York Strip Steak on Cast Iron
To achieve the perfect New York strip steak cooked on a cast iron pan, follow these steps:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. |
| 2 | Preheat your cast iron pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. It should be hot but not smoking. |
| 3 | Season the room temperature steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. |
| 4 | Place the steak in the preheated cast iron pan and let it sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This will create a flavorful crust. |
| 5 | Flip the steak using tongs and sear the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes. |
| 6 | Check the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, it should register around 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C). |
| 7 | Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. |
| 8 | Slice the steak against the grain and serve it immediately. Enjoy! |
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Adjust accordingly and use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking your New York strip steak, it’s essential to properly prepare it to ensure the best results. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Take the Steak Out of the Fridge
Remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. This will allow for more even cooking.
2. Dry the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help form a nice crust when searing.
3. Season the Steak
Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add any additional seasonings or rubs you prefer.
4. Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow it to preheat for a few minutes until it is hot.
5. Add Oil to the Skillet
Once the skillet is hot, add a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
6. Sear the Steak
Gently place the seasoned steak onto the hot skillet. Allow it to sear for 3-4 minutes without moving it to create a golden-brown crust.
7. Flip the Steak
Carefully flip the steak using tongs or a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.
8. Baste the Steak
Optional: During the last minute of cooking, you can add butter, garlic, and herbs to the skillet and baste the steak with the melted butter for extra flavor.
9. Rest the Steak
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier steak.
Now that your New York strip steak is perfectly cooked and rested, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed!
Preheating the Cast Iron Skillet
Before cooking your New York strip steak, it is important to preheat the cast iron skillet to ensure even cooking and a nice sear. Preheating allows the skillet to reach the desired temperature, which helps to create a delicious crust on the steak.
Start by placing the cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes very hot. You can test the temperature by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface of the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate almost instantly, the skillet is ready.
During the preheating process, it is important to not add any oil or butter to the skillet. This can cause the oil or butter to smoke or burn, affecting the flavor of the steak.
Once the skillet is hot, turn off the heat and carefully remove the skillet from the stovetop using oven mitts or pot holders. Place the preheated cast iron skillet onto a heat-resistant surface, such as a trivet or a thick cutting board.
Now, your cast iron skillet is preheated and ready to cook the New York strip steak. Be sure to handle the skillet with care, as it will be very hot.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking your New York strip steak, you’ll want to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here’s a simple method to season your steak:
1. Choose your seasonings: You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or you can get creative and use a blend of spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
2. Pat the steak dry: Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry. This helps to remove any excess moisture and allows the seasoning to adhere better.
3. Season both sides: Sprinkle your chosen seasonings generously on both sides of the steak. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat to ensure even distribution.
4. Let it sit: Once seasoned, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and adds flavor.
5. Consider marinating: If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also marinate your steak. Choose a marinade that complements the flavors of the steak, such as a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. Place the steak in a shallow dish and cover it with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Note: Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. The guidelines above are just a starting point, and you can experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect combination.
Searing the Steak
Before searing the steak, make sure it is at room temperature. This allows for more even cooking.
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. You want the skillet to be hot enough to create a nice sear on the steak.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any other seasonings or spices you prefer.
3. Add a small amount of oil to the hot skillet, just enough to coat the bottom. You can use vegetable or canola oil, as they have higher smoke points.
4. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound as the steak makes contact with the hot surface.
5. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak and avoid using a fork, as it can pierce the meat and cause it to lose its juices.
6. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook slightly after it is removed from the heat.
7. Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
8. After resting, slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly seared New York strip steak!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook a New York strip steak in a cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook a New York strip steak in a cast iron skillet is to preheat the skillet on high heat, season the steak with salt and pepper, and then sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes for medium-rare doneness.
Can I use any type of steak for this recipe, or does it specifically need to be a New York strip steak?
You can use any type of steak for this recipe, but the cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and cut of the steak. New York strip steak is a popular choice for this cooking method because it is tender, flavorful, and cooks evenly.
What seasoning should I use for the New York strip steak?
You can season the New York strip steak with a simple mixture of salt and pepper, or you can get creative and use a steak seasoning blend, herbs, or spices of your choice to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to season both sides of the steak before cooking.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest before serving?
Yes, it is crucial to let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Is it possible to achieve a restaurant-quality steak at home using this cooking method?
Yes, it is definitely possible to achieve a restaurant-quality steak at home using this cooking method. The high heat from the cast iron skillet helps to create a nice crust on the steak, and finishing it in the oven ensures that it cooks evenly and to the desired doneness. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time and temperature to avoid overcooking.
What is the best way to cook New York Strip Steak in a cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook New York Strip Steak in a cast iron skillet is to start by preheating the skillet over high heat. Meanwhile, season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Once the skillet is hot, add some oil or butter and carefully place the steak in the pan. Cook the steak for a few minutes on each side, until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
What temperature should I cook New York Strip Steak to for medium-rare?
To cook New York Strip Steak to medium-rare, you should aim for an internal temperature of around 130-135°F (54-57°C). This will give you a steak that is pink in the center and juicy. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, as cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your skillet.