How to Cook a New York Strip Steak Medium Rare

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Makes the New York Strip Steak Special?
3. Preparation: The Key to Amazing Steak
4. Cooking Techniques: How to Achieve Medium Rare
5. Serving Suggestions: Completing the Dish
6. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
7. FAQs
8. Conclusion

Introduction

Picture this: you're at a cozy steakhouse, savoring the rich, bold flavors of a perfectly cooked New York strip steak. It's tender, juicy, and seasoned just right; a meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Now imagine creating that same experience in the comfort of your own kitchen—sounds delightful, right? Cooking a New York strip steak to that coveted medium rare doneness is not just an art; it’s a straightforward process that anyone can master.

This blog post guides you step by step on how to cook a New York strip steak medium rare. By the end, you’ll not only understand the methods involved but also appreciate the nuances that allow you to create a spectacular meal that rivals any steakhouse offering. This exploration will include vital preparation tips, cooking techniques, essential tools, and even suggested sides to elevate your dining experience.

Let’s embark on this flavorful journey, making sure you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to impress your guests or simply enjoy a well-deserved treat!

What Makes the New York Strip Steak Special?

The New York strip steak, often referred to as the Kansas City strip, is a boneless cut that's derived from the short loin section of the cow. This particular cut is celebrated for its balance of tenderness and rich beefy flavor, which is enhanced by the fat cap that runs along one side. While it’s a go-to choice for many steak lovers, achieving that perfect medium rare doneness is what transforms a simple meal into a gastronomic delight.

Historically, this cut has roots in the vibrant culinary culture of New York City, where it was made popular in upscale steakhouses. Today, the New York strip is appreciated globally, and thanks to Land and Sea Delivery, you can get fresh and premium-quality steak delivered straight to your door.

Fresh and Local Quality

At Land and Sea Delivery, we believe quality is paramount. That's why our premium meats, including the New York strip steak, are sourced from local farms that prioritize sustainable practices. With our home delivery service, you can easily access unrivaled freshness while supporting your community. Explore our collection of quality beef here and set the stage for a delicious meal.

Preparation: The Key to Amazing Steak

Selecting Your Steak

1. Opt for Quality: When selecting a steak for cooking, aim for USDA Choice or Prime cuts. Look for marbling, as the small flecks of fat within the meat contribute to juiciness and flavor.
2. Thickness Matters: Ideally, your New York strip steak should be around 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Thicker cuts provide a more forgiving cooking experience, allowing for a juicy interior.
3. Trim Wisely: A balance of meat and fat is essential. While you don't want to cut away too much fat, trimming excess connective tissue can enhance the eating experience.

At Home: Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature

Before cooking, it’s crucial to let your steak rest at room temperature for around 30-60 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout and helps achieve that delicious crust without overcooking the interior.

Seasoning Your Steak

1. Simplicity is Key: The best way to highlight the savory flavor of the New York strip is by using minimal ingredients. Generously season both sides with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Optional Flavor Enhancements: If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to add garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking. However, keep it simple for the best steak experience.

Cooking Techniques: How to Achieve Medium Rare

There are various methods to cook a New York strip steak, but we’ll focus on two popular and effective techniques: pan-searing and oven-roasting.

Pan-Seared New York Strip Steak

Pan-searing is a favored technique that provides a lovely crust and retains juices effectively. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients and Equipment

• 1 New York strip steak (12-16 oz, about 1 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon of high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or canola)
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Skillet: Begin by heating your skillet over medium-high until it’s smoking hot. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sear the Steak:
   • Once hot, carefully add the oil to the skillet, tilting to coat the pan evenly.
   • Place the steak in the pan and do not move it for 3-4 minutes to build a crust.
   • Flip the steak and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Check Doneness: Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak. For medium rare, you should target an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
4. Baste for Extra Flavor: During the final minute of cooking, toss in a tablespoon of butter and baste the steak by spooning the melted butter over the top.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the steak from the skillet, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.

Final Touches

Slice against the grain into thick strips and serve. Drizzle over any remaining pan juices for added flavor.

Oven-Roasting for Resplendence

For those interested in a refined method that creates an evenly cooked steak, consider oven-roasting after pan-searing.

Instructions

1. Sear as Above: Begin by following the pan-searing instructions, browning both sides of the steak for 2 minutes each.
2. Transfer to Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 500°F if using a cast-iron skillet). After searing, transfer the skillet directly into the oven.
3. Cook to Perfection: Let the steak roast for approximately 4-6 minutes, or until it reaches the desired internal temperature of 130-135°F.
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions: Completing the Dish

While a perfectly cooked New York strip steak can stand on its own, pairing it with delicious sides amplifies your culinary experience. Here are some recommendations:

• Classic Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad pair well with the hearty flavors of steak.
• Flavorful Sauces: Consider serving with a chimichurri or a red wine reduction for an elegant touch.
• Visit Land and Sea Delivery’s Shop: Don't forget to complement your meal with fresh seafood or vibrant vegetable collections available here.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any delicious steak left over, proper storage is essential. Here’s how to do it:

1. Refrigerate: Transfer the cooked steak to an airtight container, and it should last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
2. Reheating: For the best results, reheat slices in a skillet with a little butter over low heat to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

How do I know when my New York strip steak is medium rare?

To determine if your steak is medium rare, an instant-read thermometer should indicate an internal temperature of 130-135°F. As an alternative, you can also use the finger test technique, pressing the steak—medium rare should feel slightly firm with a little spring.

Can I use frozen steak?

While it’s not ideal to cook steak from frozen, you can safely thaw it by placing it in the refrigerator overnight.

What’s the best way to season a New York strip steak?

Simple seasoning works best with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Use high-quality seasonings to allow the natural flavors of the steak to shine through.

Is it necessary to rest the steak after cooking?

Yes! Resting your steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful dining experience.

What is the difference between a New York strip and a ribeye?

While both cuts are delicious, the New York strip is leaner with a firmer texture compared to the ribeye, which is known for its marbled fat, giving it a rich flavor and tenderness.

Conclusion

Cooking a New York strip steak to medium rare might seem daunting, but with a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you can achieve steakhouse results right from your home kitchen. This versatile cut is perfect whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in.

Remember to support local farms by sourcing your beef from trustworthy providers like Land and Sea Delivery, who offer an extensive selection of quality meats while ensuring a fresh and sustainable approach. Enhance your next culinary adventure by exploring our beef collection or browse the full range on our shop, all available through our convenient home delivery service.

Enjoy the delicious journey your New York strip steak will take you on, and enjoy every delicious moment! Happy cooking!