You know that feeling when you throw a steak into the pan with the utmost pride, only to find the end result is more like a sole than a juicy gourmet dream? Good news: there is a solution – and it doesn’t involve expensive marinades, special equipment or a course from Gordon Ramsay. It’s a simple cooking trick that requires exactly one ingredient that you almost certainly already have at home. And the best part? It costs absolutely nothing. Get your forks ready – your best steak ever starts right here.
Preparing the perfect steak often seems like a challenge. But there is an incredibly simple technique that doesn't involve any exotic ingredients or expensive kitchen gadgets. The key to success lies in a single ingredient.
A simple method for a juicy and tender steak
You probably already know that meat choice is important, but proper preparation is what makes the difference. Instead of throwing the meat straight into a hot pan, use a dry rub first. saltingThis process can completely change the texture of your steak in just a few minutes.
Dry salting means that you salt the meat and let it rest before cooking. During the rest period, the magic happens: the salt draws moisture out of the meat, which is then reabsorbed along with the salt. This creates a natural brine that tenderizes the steak and gives it a more intense flavor.
Steps to a perfect result
Use coarse sea salt, as it has larger crystals that evenly cover the surface of the meat. Press the salt gently against the meat and let it rest for about an hour.
Do not use regular table salt., as it is too fine and can oversalt or dry out the meat. Coarse salt creates a more balanced result and also allows better control over the amount.
When it's time to cook, gently wipe the salt off the surface with a paper towel. It's important not to rinse the meat with water, as this will ruin the texture and spread the natural juices.
Hot pan
It is very important to heat the pan well first. This is the only way to ensure that the outside of the steak becomes crispy and golden brown, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
Cooking time depends on thickness and your preferences:
• 2–3 minutes per side for rare steak,
• 3–4 minutes per side for medium rare,
• 4–5 minutes per side for a more well-done result.
Once you've finished cooking, let the steak rest for at least five minutes. This time allows the juices to distribute evenly and the meat to retain its juiciness.
