- Strip steak recommended for straightforward grilling
- Not too lean, not too fatty
- Easy to cook for beginners
- Prime grade with good marbling preferred
- Better quality meat = better taste
- Gives head start on flavor
- Note ingredients: salt-based seasoning (Cattleman’s Grilled Butcher House contains salt, sugar, onion, garlic)
- Timing: 45-60 minutes minimum
- Can do morning and leave all day for better results
- Watch for moisture to draw out then reabsorb
- Surface should be dry before grilling
- Benefits: adds flavor, juiciness, texture through salt penetration
- Preheat gas grill on high for minimum 20 minutes
- Target ~650°F for optimal searing
- Cook steaks cold from refrigerator (not room temperature)
- Prevents overcooking before getting proper sear
- Use thermometer for accuracy
- Target internal temp: 125-130°F for medium-rare
- When to check temp: after first flip when grill releases steak naturally
- Cooking process:
- Start on high heat, lid closed
- Flip when steak releases from grill
- Check internal temp (~100°F after first flip)
- Move to fresh hot grates for better sear
- Finish indirect on low heat if needed
- Total cook time: ~15 minutes
- Multiple flips acceptable for even cooking
- Rest 5 minutes after cooking
- Save and use pan juices over sliced steak
- Final result: pink center, rendered fat, great crust with salt/sweet caramelization