Spring is here and we are all looking forward to outdoor gatherings with family and friends. For most of us, spring and summer heralds the arrival of grilling season, when we can just sit back on a deck chair, relax with a cold drink, and enjoy the aromas of delicious meats and veggies cooked over a flame.
This grilling season, show off your skills with these expert tips from the culinary masters at Ruth’s Chris.
Choose the Right Cut
Did you know that the foundation of any great steak is, of course, the meat itself? At Ruth’s Chris, we take pride in using the finest USDA Prime beef, known for its superior marbling, peak flavor and exceptional tenderness.
When selecting your steak for grilling, ideally look for cuts with some good marbling. Ribeye is the classic choice because of its juicy and flavorful taste. Other good choices include the New York Strip and Porterhouse. And if filet is more your speed, that is also a great choice – but since it’s leaner, just make sure to keep a watchful eye to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Season Generously
The secret to a great steak lies in its seasoning. At Ruth’s Chris, we keep it simple: rub both sides with a generous amount of salt and freshly cracked pepper. This easy yet effective seasoning brings out the beef’s natural flavors without overpowering them.
Let it Warm up
Before you put your steak on the grill, allow it to reach room temperature to ensure even cooking. Typically, 20 to 30 minutes is sufficient. For safety reasons, you should never let a steak sit out for extended periods.
Preheat the Grill
The correct temperature is crucial to a perfectly cooked steak. Aim for a hot grill between 500 to 600°F. This intense heat creates a beautiful sear on the outside of the steak, locking in those succulent juices and creating a flavorful crust. Once you’ve achieved that perfect sear, you can reduce the heat to finish cooking the steak to your desired level.
Time the Grilling
How do you like your steak cooked? Here are some quick tips on how to hit the mark, noting that cooking times can vary greatly depending on the size of your steaks and how hot your grill is:
- Rare: 3 to 4 minutes on each side with an internal temperature of 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 4 to 5 minutes on each side with an internal temperature of 130-135°F
- Medium: 5 to 6 minutes on each side with an internal temperature of 135-140°F
- Medium-Well: 6 to 7 minutes on each side with an internal temperature of 140-150°F
- Well-Done: 7 to 8 minutes on each side with an internal temperature above 155°F
Our experts at Ruth’s Chris highly recommend using a meat thermometer. It is the most reliable way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking each and every time.
Let it Rest
Once your steak is finished cooking, resist the temptation to dig in right away. Instead, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Savor Every Bite
With these expert tips from Ruth’s Chris, you’ll be well on your way to grilling perfection this summer. And if you’re not up to grilling, remember to make a reservation at a Ruth’s Chris Steak House near you.