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## Instructions:
### 1. **Prepare the Steaks:**
Before cooking, take the steaks out of the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This helps the steaks cook more evenly and achieve a perfect sear. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent a good sear.
Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer, you can add a bit of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
### 2. **Heat the Pan:**
Place a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan on medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot before adding any oil. Once the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Swirl the pan to evenly coat the bottom with the oil.
### 3. **Sear the Steaks:**
Place the steaks in the hot skillet and let them sear without moving them for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, depending on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness. You’re looking for a deep golden-brown crust. Flip the steak and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
For a perfect medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should read around 130°F (54°C). For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C), and for well-done, 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, or gauge the steak’s firmness by touch for doneness.
### 4. **Add the Butter and Aromatics:**
Once the steaks are seared and nearly done, add the **unsalted butter** to the pan. Allow the butter to melt, then add the **smashed garlic** and **fresh rosemary or thyme sprig**. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steaks repeatedly. This technique, called basting, infuses the steak with a delicious buttery flavor while keeping it moist and juicy.
Continue basting for about 1-2 minutes, letting the butter turn golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
### 5. **Rest the Steaks:**
Remove the steaks from the pan and transfer them to a cutting board or plate. Tent the steaks with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your steak is juicy and tender when sliced.
### 6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Serve the buttered steaks immediately after resting. Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary or thyme, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp salad.
## Tips for the Perfect Buttered Beef Steak:
– **Choose the Right Cut of Beef:** Ribeye, New York Strip, or Filet Mignon are all great choices for this recipe, but feel free to use any cut of steak you prefer. The key is to select a cut with enough marbling (fat) to stay juicy and flavorful.
– **Let the Steak Rest:** Don’t skip the resting period! Allowing the steak to rest after cooking ensures the juices stay inside the meat, making each bite tender and flavorful.
– **Baste for Extra Flavor:** The basting technique is a game-changer when it comes to infusing the steak with rich butter and herb flavors. The longer you baste, the more flavor you’re adding.
– **Sear on High Heat:** Searing the steak at a high temperature helps form a beautiful crust and locks in all the juices. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the steak to avoid steaming rather than searing the meat.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** If cooking more than two steaks, sear them in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and prevent a good sear.
## Perfect Pairings for Buttered Beef Steak:
This indulgent steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
1. **Side Dishes:**
– **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy and comforting, the mashed potatoes complement the richness of the buttered steak perfectly.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sautéed mushrooms add a fresh, savory contrast to the richness of the steak.
– **Caesar Salad**: Crisp and tangy, a Caesar salad provides a light, refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the steak.
2. **Wine Pairing:**
– A **bold red wine** like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec is an ideal match for the buttery richness of the steak.
– For a lighter option, a **Chardonnay** with some oak influence can work beautifully with the buttery notes of the dish.
## Conclusion:
This **Buttered Beef Steak Recipe** is a simple yet luxurious dish that brings out the best in high-quality beef. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious dinner, the combination of a perfectly seared steak and rich, flavorful butter is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a restaurant-worthy steak right at home. Enjoy every tender, buttery bite!
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