Steak Grilling Tips

There's nothing better than sitting down to a thick, juicy barbecued steak. Achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture can be a challenge, but with the help of the Kraft Kitchens, the ultimate steak is within your grasp.

• Select steaks with a light amount of marbling for added flavour and juiciness.
• Trim off fat to about 1/4-inch and slash edges of steak at 1-inch intervals. Trimming exterior fat along steaks and chops can reduce flare-ups.
• Turn steaks when the bottom is well browned. For turning, only use tongs. Piercing with a fork will cause the juices to run out and a dryer end product.
• To cook a 1-inch thick steak over medium heat, allow 4 minutes on each side for rare, 5 minutes for medium and 6 minutes for well done.
• Make sure the grill is hot before adding the steaks. A hot grill quickly sears the outside of the steaks caramelizing the surface of the steak, adding texture, colour and flavour.
• Let beef and other meats stand at room temperature for 30 minutes (no longer) before grilling. This standing time allows the meat to be more tender.
• A quick way to see if your steak is done: with washed hands touch the steak with your finger. Now feel the muscle at the base of your thumb while pinching your thumb and forefinger together. That's what a rare steak should feel like when pressed. Fore medium, well and well done, press your middle, ring, and baby finger to your thumb respectively.

More Steak Grilling Tips:

1. Only turn steak once during cooking. Constant flipping prevents the outside from being seared.
2. Use the right temperature. Cooking steak at too high a temperature can cause the outside to char before the inside reaches the proper doneness.
3. Salt your steak after grilling as salt draws out moisture and will prevent steak from browning.
4. Don't use a fork; piercing the meat will release the delicious juices. Use long-handled tongs or spatulas to move food around the grill.
5. Leave a thin layer of fat on your steak while grilling to lock in flavourful juices. Trim away fat before serving.