Steak Cuts: Grill Or Pan?

There are several factors to consider when deciding between grilling or pan-searing your steak, including flavour, texture, health, and convenience. Grilled steak has a distinct smoky flavour and a charred exterior with a juicy interior, while pan-seared steak has a rich, caramelized flavour and a crusty exterior with a juicy interior. Grilling is a healthier option as it allows the fat to drip away, and it's great for outdoor cooking. On the other hand, pan-searing is more convenient for indoor cooking but requires a small amount of oil or butter which adds calories and fat. Ultimately, the choice between grilling and pan-searing depends on personal preference and cooking style.

Grilled steak has a distinct smoky flavour

The smoke from the grill adds to the overall flavour of the meat, which cannot be recreated in a frying pan. Grilled steak also has a slightly charred exterior and a tender, juicy interior.

The amount of smokiness can be controlled by the type of wood used in the grill. For a mild smoked flavour, cherry wood, alder, pecan, or maple can be used. For a bolder, smokier flavour, mesquite, hickory, or oak wood is a better choice.

In addition to the smoky flavour, grilling allows the fat in the steak to drip away, making it a healthier option than pan-searing. Grilling is also a great choice for outdoor cooking and can be a fun activity to do with family or friends.

However, grilling may be more challenging to master compared to pan-searing, and the results may vary depending on the cooking environment.

Grilled steak is healthier

Health Benefits of Grilled Steak

Grilling a steak has several health benefits over pan-searing. Firstly, grilling allows the fat in the steak to drip away, making it a healthier option than pan-searing, which requires cooking with a small amount of oil or butter that can add extra calories and fat to your meal.

Grilling steak also requires less oil than pan-frying, which is good news if you are watching your cholesterol intake. You can also grill vegetables alongside your steak, making it a convenient way to cook a healthy meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Steak

Beef, including steak, is an excellent source of protein and offers a wide range of essential nutrients. Even the worst cut of steak has plenty of nutritional benefits. For example, while ribeye steak is highest in total fat and saturated fat, it is also packed with protein and healthy fat-soluble vitamins, iron, and vitamin B12.

Other relatively healthy cuts of steak include the bottom round steak, which is low-fat and high-protein, and the New York Strip steak, which is one of the leanest cuts of steak while still being high in protein.

Tips for Grilling Steak

When grilling steak, it is important to pre-heat the grill and to season and oil the meat before placing it on the grill. You should also allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling, before slicing and serving.

If you are watching your cholesterol intake, you can trim the fat from the exterior of the steak before grilling, and use less oil. This will increase the nutritional value of your meal by removing excess fat.

A Balanced Diet

While grilled steak can be a healthier option than pan-seared steak, it is important to remember that eating more than 18 ounces of red meat each week can increase your cancer risk. So, while steak can be a nutritious and tasty part of your diet, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Pan-seared steak has a rich, caramelised flavour

Pan-seared steak: a rich, caramelised flavour

Pan-searing is a great way to cook steak if you're after a rich, caramelised flavour and a juicy centre. It's also a convenient option for indoor cooking.

How to pan-sear a steak

First, pat the steak dry with paper towels. This will help you achieve the perfect sear and reduce oil splatter. Next, season both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat and brush with oil. Place the steak in the pan and sear each side for 3-5 minutes, or until a brown crust has formed. Then, use tongs to turn the steak on its sides and sear the edges for 1 minute per edge.

Pan-searing vs grilling

Both pan-searing and grilling are popular methods for cooking steak, and each has its own unique benefits. Grilled steak has a distinct smoky flavour from being cooked over an open flame, whereas pan-seared steak has a rich, caramelised flavour from being cooked in its own juices. Grilling is a healthier option as it allows the fat to drip away, whereas pan-searing requires a small amount of oil or butter. Grilling is also a great option for outdoor cooking, while pan-searing is more convenient for indoor cooking. Ultimately, the method you choose will depend on your personal preference and cooking style.

Pan searing is more convenient for indoor cooking

Pan-searing is a great option for indoor cooking and can be done on a stove top with a cast iron skillet or other heavy-bottomed pan. It is a more convenient option for those who don't have access to an outdoor space or a grill.

Pan-searing is also a faster method of cooking steak, taking only 6-8 minutes to cook the meat. In comparison, grilling can take longer as it requires more preparation time to set up the grill.

Another advantage of pan-searing is that it allows for more precise control over the cooking temperature. With a grill, it can be challenging to regulate the heat, and the grill may not cool down quickly if the steak requires lower heat.

Additionally, pan-searing is a good option for those who want to create a rich, caramelized flavour. The steak is cooked in its own juices, resulting in a crusty exterior and a tender, juicy interior. This method also allows for the addition of butter and herbs to create a flavourful baste.

While pan-searing does require the use of a small amount of oil or butter, which can add calories and fat, it is still a convenient and effective method for cooking steak, especially for those who prefer indoor cooking.

Grilled steak is more suitable for outdoor cooking

Secondly, grilling is a healthier option. Grilling allows the fat in the steak to drip away, and you need less oil to cook the meat compared to pan-searing. This makes grilled steak a better choice for those watching their cholesterol intake. You can also grill vegetables alongside your steak, making it easy to prepare a healthy meal.

Thirdly, grilling is a fun and social activity. It's often associated with barbecues, family gatherings, and spending time outdoors in the sunshine. Grilling is a great way to catch up with friends and family while enjoying delicious food.

Lastly, grilling is convenient for outdoor cooking. It can be done on a gas or charcoal grill, and there are usually no dishes to wash up afterward. A simple wipe-down of the grill is often sufficient.

In summary, grilled steak is more suitable for outdoor cooking due to its unique flavour, health benefits, social aspect, and convenience. So, if you're looking to cook steak outdoors, firing up the grill is the way to go!

Frequently asked questions