Who Orders Steak Well-Done? A Guide to Enjoying a Perfectly Cooked Steak

Introduction

When it comes to steak, there can be a lot of disagreement over what constitutes the “perfect” steak. Some people prefer their steak rare, while others prefer it medium-rare or even well-done. But what does it mean to order a “well-done” steak, and why do some people prefer it? This article will provide a guide to enjoying a perfectly cooked well-done steak, as well as an explanation of the science behind cooking a perfectly done well-done steak.

A Guide to Enjoying a Perfectly Cooked Well-Done Steak

The term “well-done” is generally used to describe a steak that has been cooked until it is no longer pink in the center. It should have a hard, dry texture, and the fat should be completely rendered. While some may view ordering a well-done steak as sacrilege, there are actually several benefits to ordering a well-done steak.

The Benefits of Ordering a Well-Done Steak

For one, ordering a well-done steak eliminates any potential risk of foodborne illnesses, such as E. coli, that may be present in undercooked beef. According to a study published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology, “Steaks cooked to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) were found to be free of foodborne pathogens, including Escherichia coli O157:H7.”

In addition, ordering a well-done steak can help you avoid the potential issue of cross-contamination from raw meat. If a steak is cooked on the same surface where raw meat was prepared, there is the potential for bacteria from the raw meat to contaminate the cooked steak. By ordering a well-done steak, you can be sure that any bacteria that may have been present has been killed off in the cooking process.

How to Choose the Right Cut of Meat for a Well-Done Steak

When it comes to choosing the right cut of meat for a well-done steak, it is important to pick a cut that is not too thick. Thick cuts of steak can be difficult to cook evenly, and they may end up overcooked on the outside while still being undercooked in the center. Thinner cuts of steak, such as flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin, are ideal for cooking to a well-done temperature.

What to Look for in a Quality Well-Done Steak

When ordering a well-done steak, it is important to look for steaks that have been properly aged. Aged steaks tend to be more tender and flavorful than freshly cut steaks, which can be tough and chewy. Additionally, when ordering a well-done steak, it is important to make sure that the steak has been cooked slowly at a low temperature. This will help ensure that the steak is cooked evenly throughout and that it is not charred on the outside while still being undercooked in the center.

The Science Behind Cooking a Perfectly Done Well-Done Steak

Cooking a perfectly done well-done steak requires a certain amount of skill and knowledge. To understand the science behind cooking a perfectly done well-done steak, it is important to understand the different levels of doneness and the temperature range needed to achieve a perfectly done steak.

Understanding the Different Levels of Doneness

When it comes to steak, there are four basic levels of doneness: rare, medium-rare, medium, and well-done. Rare steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 130°F, medium-rare steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F, medium steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 150°F, and well-done steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F.

Knowing the Temperature Range Needed to Achieve a Perfectly Done Steak

In order to achieve the perfect well-done steak, the steak must reach an internal temperature of 160°F. To ensure that the steak reaches this temperature without burning or drying out, it is important to cook the steak over low heat (around 300°F) for an extended period of time. This will allow the steak to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked well-done steak.

Tips for Ensuring a Perfectly Cooked Well-Done Steak

To ensure a perfectly cooked well-done steak, it is important to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Additionally, it is important to let the steak rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak. Finally, it is important to slice the steak against the grain to ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew.

Conclusion

For those who prefer their steak well-done, this article provides an overview of the benefits of ordering a well-done steak and tips for ensuring it is cooked to perfection. With the right cut of meat, the proper temperature range, and the right techniques, anyone can enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked well-done steak. So, for those who are brave enough to go against the grain and order a well-done steak, there is no need to worry—a perfectly cooked well-done steak is within reach.