Allowing your steak to rest after grilling creates a flavorful and tender dining experience. The CampGrilling Rule of Thumb for resting cooked steak is 8 minutes per pound (lb.).
Why Let Steak Rest
- Juice Redistribution: When steak cooks, the juices move towards the center. Allowing it to rest for about 5-10 minutes lets those precious juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Temperature Equalization: Resting your steak helps even out the temperature. The outer layers are scorching hot from the grill, while the interior might still be catching up. Give it a few minutes, and you'll have a consistently cooked delight.
- Improved Texture: The rest period allows the muscle fibers in the meat to relax, resulting in a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.
How Long to Let Steak Rest?
While a general guideline is to let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes, the exact time can vary based on the cut of meat and its thickness. Here's a quick reference for different steaks:
- Thin Cuts (e.g., flank steak): Rest for around 5 minutes.
- Medium Cuts (e.g., ribeye, sirloin): Aim for 7-8 minutes.
- Thick Cuts (e.g., porterhouse, T-bone): Allow 10 minutes or more.
Remember, these times are approximate and based on an 8 minute per lb. goal. It's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature before resting.
Steak Resting Times - Table
Here's a simple table to guide you through the optimal resting times for different steak cuts:
| Steak Cut | Optimal Resting Time |
|---|---|
| Thin Cuts (e.g., flank steak) | 5 minutes |
| Medium Cuts (e.g., ribeye, sirloin) | 7-8 minutes |
| Thick Cuts (e.g., porterhouse, T-bone) | 10 minutes or more |
Remember, the key is to let the steak rest and allow its flavors to reach their peak.
So, next time you're grilling up a storm, give your steak the time it deserves before indulging in its savory goodness.
