Grilling The Perfect Steak

15 Mar

When grilling perfect steak, most grilling recipes suggest cooking over high, medium or low heat. Seldom do they require a specific temperature. There are several reasons for this. Grilling is an inexact cooking method and the conditions in and around the grill can change very quickly. So it is best for the recipesto simply suggest a range of heat to cook over and remind you to watch the food very closely.

But how do you know what is considered high, medium or low heat? Do not go by the thermometers in the tops of most grills. They will measure only the air temperatures inside the grill when the cover is closed. This is not a true measure of the actual cooking temperature down close to the fire where your food is. That temperature is much higher. Furthermore, with most meats and fish fillets it is preferable that you build a two zone fire and the cover thermometer is completely worthless if the ends of the grill are at different temperatures.

tips on grilling a steak

The best way to tell the temperature of your fire is to use the traditional hand test. Hold your hand about three inches above the grate and time how long you can hold it there before you are forced to jerk it back:

1 to 2 seconds High Heat - This is the best temperature for your hot zone if you are grilling shrimp or searing a steak. When using the the zone technique, use this side first to sear the outside and lock in the juices.

2 to 3 seconds Medium High Range - Good for most fish steaks.

4 to 5 seconds Medium Low Range - Ideal for most chicken and veggies.

7 to 8 seconds Low Heat - Perfect for your warm zone to finish steaks or chops. Also good for grilling soft vegetables and fruit.

1 minute - You forgot to light the fire! Put down your drink and go get a lighter. (Just kidding)

You can enjoy grilling perfect steak if you build a two zone fire and use the hand method to determine the right temperature for your food.

By: Mark Hester

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Mark Hester is the co-creator of The Weekend Grillers along with Jamie Clark of Derby City Sauces. If you love Grilling and BBQ or want more information on grilling steaks (including how to get that High-end Steakhouse Taste at home) visit The Weekend Grillers