Andrew Zimmern's Tip For Perfectly Grilled Steak
Who doesn't love a good steak? From a tender T-bone to sliced skirt, to lesser-known cuts such as flat iron and rump cap, there is just something irresistible about a well-seasoned, well-cooked, juicy steak. As delicious as steak has the potential to be, cooking it can also be a process full of potential pitfalls — from undercooking to overcooking, to not letting the meat rest, and so many more. We love steak and we want to see it cooked to the best of its potential, which is why we've published guides to grilling steak, as well as information on popular cuts such as porterhouse and sirloin.
Another person who's passionate about searing steak to perfection? Chef and television host Andrew Zimmern, known for his off-the-beaten-path eating on his Travel Channel series "Bizarre Foods," as well as his popular YouTube cooking channel, where he shares recipes for approachable, home-style dishes such as kimchi fried rice and chicken Parmesan, to name a few. Zimmern is also active on Instagram, where he has shared some tips on his preferred method for grilling steak.
Keep that meat moving
Chef and television host Andrew Zimmern's food expertise isn't limited to bizarre eats such as coconut tree grubs and fermented shark meat. As fans know, he's also an excellent source of information when it comes to everyday cooking, frequently sharing kitchen tips and recipes on his YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook channels. Zimmern doesn't shy away from meat, in general, and over the years has offered lots of advice on how to cook it properly. In an Instagram video from June 16, 2021, the chef honed in specifically on how to grill steak, and stressed a simple — though often overlooked — technique to ensure a perfect sear.
"Grilling over high direct heat requires constant attention," Zimmern wrote on the post. "Be sure to turn the meat frequently, moving it around the grill to avoid flare ups."
Because grills reach such high temperatures — it's recommended to grill steak at a temperature of 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, according to grill maker Weber — fat from the meat will render right off, dripping directly onto the coals or gas flames below the grill grate (via Serious Eats). Those drips will cause flames to burst up from below, which can quickly lead to burnt meat. That's why it's important to heed Zimmern's advice, constantly moving the meat around the grill so that not too much fat drips at once and your prized steak won't get engulfed in flames. So now you know: a well-grilled steak is a well-traveled steak. Don't forget to rest it, either!