The Art of Charcoal Grilled Steak

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Video grilling steak on charcoal

If you’re looking to elevate your steak game and experience the wonders of cooking over charcoal, then you’ve come to the right place. Grilling steak on a charcoal grill adds a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the beef. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this classic BBQ technique that delivers mouthwatering results.

Grilled steak cooked on a charcoal grill

Unleashing the Charcoal Grill Magic

There’s an undeniable allure to a steak cooked on a charcoal grill. The unique flavor imparted by the charcoal creates a culinary experience that must be tasted to be believed. As the beef juices sizzle on the hot coals, a magical transformation takes place, making every bite an absolute delight.

Three ribeye steaks being seasoned with Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub

Selecting the Perfect Cut

While a ribeye steak is my personal favorite for a beautiful dinner, this grilling method works wonders with strip steaks, filets, or even the more affordable sirloin steaks. Feel free to experiment with different cuts to find your ideal flavor profile.

When it comes to beef grades, you’ll find variations in both price and quality. Prime beef, with its generous marbling, offers the most tender and flavorful experience. Choice grade beef provides a fantastic balance of marbling and affordability, making it a popular choice in supermarkets. Select grade beef, though lacking excessive marbling, offers a cost-effective option for steak lovers.

Charcoal being dumped out of a chimney

Mastering the Charcoal Grill Steak

Enough talk, let’s dive into the process of creating this exquisite dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill steak on a charcoal grill:

  1. Preheat the charcoal: Light the charcoal and allow it to develop a white ash coating. Place the briquettes on one side of the grate for two-zone cooking. For detailed instructions on lighting charcoal, refer to my guide on How to Start a Charcoal Grill.

  2. Season to perfection: Brush the steaks with extra virgin olive oil, then generously season both sides with Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub. If you don’t have Beef Rub, you can create a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

  3. Grill with finesse: Position the steaks on the indirect heat side of the grill, away from the hot coals. Grill for approximately 10 minutes per side or until the steaks reach a medium-rare internal temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit.

  4. Seal in the flavor: Move the steaks to the direct heat side of the charcoal grill and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.

  5. Let it rest, then serve: Remove the steaks from the heat and allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes on a serving platter. Once they have rested, slice the meat against the grain and serve this stunning dish alongside your favorite sides.

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Ribeye steak over indirect heat side of a charcoal grill

Timing is Key

For those aiming for a medium-rare steak, the cooking time should range between 25-30 minutes. Remember, cooking to temperature rather than time guarantees the perfect doneness. For a comprehensive guide on steak doneness, consult my Steak Temperature and Doneness Guide.

Seasoned ribeye steak over direct heat on a charcoal grill

Expert Tips for Grilling Steaks on Charcoal

To help you achieve steak perfection, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

  • Salt and pepper partnership: If you don’t have any Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub at hand, a simple blend of kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper is a fantastic way to season your steaks. Add a touch of garlic powder for an adventurous twist.

  • Trust the thermometer: Each steak and grill combination is unique, so relying on timing alone may lead to inconsistent results. Invest in a quality meat thermometer to accurately gauge doneness and ensure perfect steak every time.

  • Find your perfect doneness: When grilling indirectly, aim for steaks to be about 10 degrees below the target finished temperature before moving them to the direct heat side. This approach helps achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

Charcoal grilled steak on a serving dish

Explore More Grilled Steak Creations

If your love for grilled steak knows no bounds, here are some other unique and classic recipes you can experiment with:

  • Grilled Teriyaki Steak
  • Marinated and Grilled Chuck Steak
  • Grilled Ribeye Steaks

Unleash Your Inner Grill Master

Now that you have the knowledge and confidence to grill steak on a charcoal grill, it’s time to put your skills to the test. For more tantalizing recipes, helpful tips, and behind-the-scenes action, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Happy grilling!

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