Are you tired of the same old grilled steaks? Do you want to take your steak game to the next level? Then buckle up, because I’m about to reveal a secret that will transform your steak-cooking experience forever. I present to you the mouthwatering world of the reverse seared ribeye.
Key Takeaways
Selecting Your Steaks
Before we dive into the marvelous technique of reverse searing, let’s talk about selecting the perfect steak. It’s crucial to choose a cut with good marbling and a decent thickness. Aim for steaks around 1-1 ½” thick, allowing the marbling to dissolve into the meat during the cooking process and create an unparalleled flavor experience.
The Steak Brine
Now that you’ve got your steaks, it’s time to prepare them. Take the steak out of the fridge, place it on a grilling rack, and sprinkle it with salt on all sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the juiciness and tenderness of your steak. Let it rest in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the salt to work its magic.
Smoking the Steak
Once the steak has absorbed the flavors of the salt, it’s time to fire up the smoker. Set the temperature to a low and slow 180-225 degrees, using indirect heat. Oak pellets are ideal for imparting a delicate smokiness to your ribeye, but if you’re feeling adventurous, mesquite can also work wonders. Before placing the steak in the smoker, sprinkle some more salt and pepper on the surface to add an extra kick of flavor.
Let the steak smoke until the internal temperature reaches 100-110 degrees. This process usually takes around an hour. For thicker cuts of meat, such as those exceeding 2 inches, aim for an internal temperature of 125 degrees.
Searing a Reverse Seared Ribeye
Now comes the magical part – the reverse sear. Once your steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and tent it with foil. If your smoker can reach temperatures of 500 degrees or higher, you can use it for the sear. Alternatively, grab a trusty cast iron skillet and heat it on your stovetop.
The cast iron skillet provides ample surface area for achieving a perfectly seared crust. Before placing the steak in the skillet, add a tablespoon of butter to enhance the richness of the flavors. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side, ensuring a delectable exterior crust without sacrificing the juiciness within.
How to Know When Your Steak is Done
Determining the doneness of your steak can be a challenge. Fortunately, an instant-read meat thermometer, like the Thermoworks Thermapen ONE, is a reliable tool. For a medium-rare masterpiece, pull your steak off the heat at 125 degrees. If your tastes sway towards a medium doneness, aim for 140 degrees. The Thermapen makes it effortless to monitor the internal temperature, ensuring your steak is cooked to perfection.
Time to Savor the Culinary Triumph
Once your steak has undergone its transformative journey, it’s time to indulge in its sensational flavors. Allow the steak to rest for at least ten minutes, giving the juices time to redistribute and impart their tantalizing essence throughout the meat. Serve your masterpiece alongside a baked potato and some green beans for a classic, yet extraordinary meal.
The reverse sear steak is a testament to the extraordinary flavors that can be achieved through the art of smoking and searing. Are you ready to revolutionize your steak-cooking game? Embrace the magic of the reverse sear ribeye, and treat yourself to the best steak you’ve ever tasted.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re craving more culinary adventures, check out Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ, where you’ll find a myriad of mouthwatering recipes and grilling inspiration.
