THUNDER BAY – LIVING – There is nothing that says summer more than a barbecue and of all the grilling choices, a good steak tops the list for many people. Heading into the Canada Day and July 4th Long weekend, here are some ideas from one of the most experienced grillers, Cowboy Kent Rollins.
Cooking the perfect steak is an art, and no one understands this better than Cowboy Kent Rollins. Renowned for his cowboy cooking and rustic charm, Rollins brings time-tested techniques to the table that ensure a mouthwatering, perfectly cooked steak every time. Here’s how you can achieve steak perfection, Cowboy Kent Rollins style.
Choosing the Right Cut
The first step in cooking a perfect steak is selecting the right cut. Rollins recommends going for high-quality, well-marbled cuts like ribeye, T-bone, or New York strip. The marbling—the white streaks of fat within the meat—ensures flavor and tenderness.
Preparing the Steak
- Bring to Room Temperature: Take your steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. Allowing it to come to room temperature ensures even cooking.
- Season Generously: Rollins emphasizes the importance of seasoning. A simple yet effective blend of kosher salt, coarse ground black pepper, and a touch of garlic powder works wonders. Season the steak generously on both sides, pressing the seasoning into the meat.
The Cooking Process
- Use Cast Iron: For a perfect sear, Rollins swears by a cast iron skillet. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. The heavy cast iron retains heat well, ensuring a beautiful crust on the steak.
- Add Oil: Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point, like canola or grapeseed oil.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the skillet. Don’t move it around—let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak. For thicker cuts, you may need an additional minute or two on each side.
- Add Butter and Herbs: In the last minute of cooking, add a generous knob of butter, a few cloves of garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skillet. Baste the steak with the melted butter using a spoon, enhancing the flavor and keeping the meat juicy.
Checking Doneness
Rollins uses the touch test to check doneness, which can be tricky for beginners. For more accuracy, use an instant-read thermometer:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F
- Well-Done: 160°F and above
Resting the Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
Serving
Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness and serve it immediately. Pair it with your favorite sides—grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Final Tips from Cowboy Kent Rollins
- Keep It Simple: Rollins believes in letting the natural flavors of the steak shine. Avoid overpowering marinades and sauces.
- Cook Outdoors: If possible, cook your steak over an open flame or on a grill for that authentic cowboy flavor.
- Enjoy the Process: Cooking a steak should be a fun and rewarding experience. Take your time, enjoy the process, and savor the results.
By following these techniques from Cowboy Kent Rollins, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of cooking the perfect steak. Happy grilling!
