I remember one evening when I was craving a juicy steak but didn’t have access to a grill or stove. I had heard about cooking steak in the microwave before, but I was skeptical. Could it really be done? I decided to give it a shot and was pleasantly surprised by the results. In this article, I will share with you my tried and tested tips for cooking a delicious steak in the microwave.
Gathering the Ingredients
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Before we begin, it’s important to choose the right cut of steak. Although the microwave is a convenient way to cook a steak, it won’t magically turn a tough cut into a tender one. Therefore, it’s best to choose a tender cut, like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon.
Gathering Other Ingredients
In addition to the steak, you’ll need a few extra ingredients to enhance the flavor. Here’s what I recommend:
Preparing the Steak
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
To ensure even cooking, it’s important to let your steak come to room temperature before microwaving it. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the countertop for about 30 minutes.
Seasoning the Steak
While waiting for the steak to reach room temperature, it’s time to season it. Generously sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides of the steak. You can also add any other seasonings or herbs that you enjoy.
Adding a Pat of Butter
To keep the steak moist and flavorful, place a pat of butter on top of the seasoned steak. The butter will melt during the cooking process, infusing the meat with its rich flavors.
Cooking in the Microwave
Choosing the Right Dish
Now it’s time to choose the right dish for microwaving your steak. A microwave-safe plate or a baking dish with a cover works well. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate the size of your steak without touching the sides.
Cooking Time and Technique
Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the steak, as well as the wattage of your microwave. As a general guideline, start with 3 minutes of cooking time per side for a medium-rare steak.
Place the steak in the dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Cook the steak in the microwave on high power, flipping it once halfway through the cooking process.
Resting the Steak
Once the cooking time is complete, it’s essential to let the steak rest before serving. This resting period allows the steak to reabsorb its juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into it.
Serving and Enjoying
Slicing and Plating the Steak
Using a sharp knife, slice your microwaved steak against the grain into thin pieces. Arrange the slices on a serving plate, and if desired, drizzle any accumulated juices from the cooking process over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your microwaved steak with your favorite side dishes. Creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments to a perfectly cooked steak. A glass of red wine or a refreshing cold beverage completes the picture.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Now that you have successfully cooked a delicious steak in the microwave, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your meal. Take a bite and savor the tenderness and flavor that the microwave has brought to your steak. It may not be the traditional method, but it’s certainly a quick and convenient way to satisfy your steak cravings.
So the next time you find yourself without access to a grill or stove, don’t despair. With these simple tips and techniques, you can still enjoy a mouthwatering steak cooked in the microwave. Happy cooking!