How To Cook The Perfect Denver Steak
Recipe by: Rob Jones
The Denver steak, known for its rich marbling and flavor, requires careful preparation and cooking to ensure it's tender and delicious. Cooking a Denver steak to a medium level of doneness is an excellent way to render its inter-muscular fat, resulting in a tender, flavorful steak. Here’s how you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium Denver steak:
Ingredients
1 Denver steak (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
Optional: garlic, herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), and butter for extra flavor
Equipment
Skillet (preferably cast iron) or grill
Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Tongs
Instructions:
**Allow the steak to come to room temperature:** Take the Denver steak out of the refrigerator about 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking.
**Season the steak:** Dry the steak with paper towels and season it generously on both sides with salt and pepper. For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or other steak seasonings of your choice.
Cooking
**Preheat your skillet or grill:**
- For skillet cooking, heat it over medium-high heat. and preheat oven to 325°F
- For grilling, preheat to a high setting (around 450°F to 500°F).
**Oil and sear the steak:**
- Lightly coat the steak with oil or add oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Place the steak in the skillet or on the grill, cooking for approximately 1-1.5 minutes on each side. This initial sear is crucial for creating a flavorful crust.
**Lower heat and continue cooking:**
- If using a skillet, Place in a preheated 325°F oven for about 5 minutes . If grilling, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill.
- Continue cooking, flipping the steak occasionally, until it reaches the desired internal temperature. For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F. This temperature allows the intermuscular fat to render properly, enhancing the steak's flavor and tenderness.
**Add flavors (optional):**
- In the last few minutes of cooking, you can add butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Baste the steak with this aromatic butter to infuse additional flavors.
**Rest the steak:**
-Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. Resting is a critical step that allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender steak.
**Serve:**
Slice the steak against the grain and enjoy it with your preferred sides.
Tips for Cooking to Medium
**Use a meat thermometer:** This is the best way to ensure your steak reaches the perfect medium temperature without overcooking.
**Adjust cooking times based on thickness:** Thicker steaks will require more time to cook. Use lower heat after the initial sear to cook the steak gradually, allowing the fat to render without burning the exterior.
**Rest the steak:** Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial for a juicy result. Do not skip this step.
By following these instructions, you'll enjoy a Denver steak cooked to medium perfection, with beautifully rendered fat and optimal tenderness.