Here's a step-by-step recipe for cooking a delicious steak

Ingredients:

• 1 or 2 boneless steaks (such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Olive oil or vegetable oil

• Optional seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, etc.)

• Optional steak sauce or butter for finishing (like garlic butter)

Equipment:

• Cast iron skillet or grill

• Tongs

• Meat thermometer

• Paper towels

Step 1: Preparation

1. Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for more cooking.

2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface of the meat can interfere with the searing process.

3. Season the steaks generously with salt and black pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, like garlic powder or paprika if desired.

Step 2: Preheat the Cooking Surface

1. If you're using a cast iron skillet, place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat and let it get very hot. If you're grilling, preheat the grill to high heat (around 450-500°F or 230-260°C).

Step 3: Searing the Steaks

1. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet or brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Be sure to use an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.

2. Place the seasoned steaks onto the hot surface. Sear one side for about 2-4 minutes (depending on the thickness of the steak) until a crust forms and the meat easily releases from the pan or grill grates.

3. Flip the steaks and sear the other side for a similar amount of time. You can use tongs to do this.

Step 4: Checking for Doneness

1. To determine the doneness of your steak, use a meat thermometer. Here are some general temperature guidelines for doneness:

   • Rare:120-130°F (49-54°C)

   • Medium Rare:130-135°F (54-57°C)

   • Medium:140-145°F (60-63°C)

   • Medium Well:150-155°F (66-68°C)

   • Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above

2. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. Remember that the temperature will rise a few degrees as the steak rests.

3. Remove the steaks from the heat when they are a few degrees below your desired doneness level.

Step 5: Resting

1. Transfer the cooked steaks to a plate and tent them with aluminum foil. Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed and the steak to finish cooking.

2. You can add a pat of butter or steak sauce to the top of the steak while it rests if desired.

Step 6: Serving

1. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips or serve it whole.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!

You can serve the steak with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, Mac and cheese or a fresh salad.