The Perfect Way to Cook a Steak: Bruce Cole’s Quick Tips

Cooking a steak may seem simple enough, but there’s a fine line between a juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked steak and a dry, tough, and overcooked one. Bruce Cole, a renowned chef at Saute Wednesday, has shared his quick tips on how to cook a steak to perfection.

Slow and Medium Heat is the Key

According to Bruce Cole, using slow and medium heat is the way to go when cooking a good steak. This method allows the heat to penetrate gradually and evenly through the steak, ensuring that it gets cooked all the way through without charring or burning the exterior. This technique is especially important when cooking thicker cuts of steak, such as filet mignon, ribeye, or sirloin.

Standing the Steak on its Narrow Side

One of Bruce Cole’s unique methods that catches the eye is starting to cook the steak’s narrow side first by standing it with tongs or something similar. This step may seem unconventional, but it renders some of the beef fat while crisping it up at the same time. By browning all the fatty sides of the steak before laying it flat, the finished steak looks more appetizing and will cook in its flavorful fat, a rather perfect synthesis of meat methodology.

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

Before diving in and trying Bruce Cole’s cooking method, it’s important to choose the right cut of steak. The cut of meat that you select will determine the texture, flavor, and quality of your steak. It’s important to note that different cuts of steak vary in their fat content and marbling, which affects the flavor, texture, and tenderness. Some of the most popular cuts of steak include filet mignon, ribeye, sirloin, T-bone, and porterhouse. Each cut of steak has its unique flavor and texture, so it’s essential to choose the right one that suits your preferences.

Preparing the Steak

Preparing the steak before cooking is also crucial in achieving a perfectly cooked steak. It’s essential to remove the steak from the refrigerator at least half an hour before cooking it to allow it to reach room temperature. This step ensures that the steak cooks evenly and doesn’t become tough. Pat dry the steak with paper towels to get rid of any moisture, then season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the steak.

Cooking the Steak

Now, it’s time to cook the steak following Bruce Cole’s method. Place a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and wait for it to get hot. Once it’s hot, add a tablespoon of oil and wait for it to heat up. Using tongs, stand the steak on its narrow side, and let it cook for two minutes. Then, tilt the steak to sear the fat and cook the edges for about a minute each. Once you have browned all the fatty sides of the steak, lay it flat in the skillet and cook it for another few minutes according to your desired level of doneness. A general rule is to cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes for medium, and 5-6 minutes for well-done.

Resting the Steak

After cooking the steak, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This step allows the juices to settle back into the meat, making it tender and juicy. Place the steak on a plate and cover it with foil, then let it rest for about five minutes. This waiting time also allows the steak to continue cooking as it retains its heat.

In conclusion, cooking a perfect steak takes practice, patience, and the right cooking method. Bruce Cole’s method of cooking a steak by standing it on its narrow side before browning all the fatty sides is a unique approach that renders some of the beef fat while crisping it up at the same time. By following Bruce’s quick tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious, tender, and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress your guests.