How to Cook Steak on Kamado Joe

You’ve got your Kamado Joe grill and a mouthwatering steak, but you’re unsure how to combine the two. Don’t sweat it!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through selecting the perfect cut, prepping your steak, and mastering the grilling techniques needed to achieve that perfect doneness.

So, grab your apron, it’s time to turn you into a Kamado Joe grill master.

Understanding Your Kamado Joe Grill

You’ve got to understand your Kamado Joe Grill before you can start cooking that perfect steak. It’s not just about lighting it up and throwing on the meat. No, it’s a bit more intricate than that, but don’t worry, you’ll catch on quickly.

So, what’s the deal with this grill? Well, it’s a ceramic, charcoal fueled beast that can reach impressively high temperatures. It’s ideal for searing your steak to perfection, but it can also slow cook, if that’s what you’re after. The key to mastering your Kamado Joe is learning how to control its temperature.

You see, the vents on the top and bottom of the grill control the airflow, which in turn, controls the heat. Open them up for higher temperatures, and close them down to lower it. It’s a delicate balance, but with a little practice, you’ll nail it.

And let’s not forget about the Divide & Conquer cooking system. This innovative design lets you cook on different levels simultaneously, allowing for a variety of cooking methods. It’s a game-changer, and it’s what sets the Kamado Joe apart from other grills.

Now that you’ve got the basics down, you’re ready to fire up that grill and cook up a mouthwatering steak.

Selecting the Perfect Cut of Steak

Choosing the right cut of beef is essential for your recipe, isn’t it? It’s like picking the perfect wine for a meal; the right choice can elevate your dish to new heights. You’ve got your Kamado Joe Grill ready to go and now you need to select the perfect cut of steak.

When picking your cut, you need to consider a few things:

  • Flavor: Some cuts have more flavor due to the higher fat content, like Ribeye.
  • Tenderness: If you prefer a tender steak, consider a Fillet Mignon.
  • Size: For a hearty eat, T-Bone or Porterhouse might be your go-to.
  • Budget: Some cuts, like Sirloin, offer a good balance of flavor and cost.

Remember, no single cut is the ‘best’ – it’s all about what you’re looking for in your steak. Once you’ve selected your cut, the next step is to get it on the grill.

Preparing Your Steak for Cooking

Before hitting the grill, it’s essential to properly prep your meat for optimal flavor and tenderness. Now that you’ve selected your perfect cut, let’s talk about the preparation process.

You’ll want to start by taking the steak out of the fridge at least an hour before you plan to cook. This allows the meat to come to room temperature, leading to a more evenly cooked steak.

Next, it’s important to pat your steak dry using a paper towel. This step ensures you’ll get that desirable, crispy sear when it hits the hot grill. Now, you’ll want to season your steak. Keep it simple with a generous amount of coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Rub the seasoning into the steak, making sure every part is covered.

Finally, lightly oil your steak. It might seem strange, but this helps prevent the steak from sticking to the grill. Now, you’re ready to start cooking your steak on the Kamado Joe.

Grilling Techniques for Kamado Joe

Let’s dive into the techniques for grilling on this versatile ceramic grill! The Kamado Joe is renowned for its ability to achieve a wide range of temperatures. This makes it perfect for searing your steak to perfection.

Start by setting it up for two-zone cooking. This means having one side of the grill hot for searing and the other side cooler for slower cooking.

You’ve got your steak prepped and ready to go. Now, you’ll place it on the hot side of the grill. Sear it for about two minutes on each side. You’re locking in those delicious juices and giving your steak that beautiful crust.

Now, let’s move the steak to the cooler side of the grill. Cover your Kamado Joe and let the steak cook to your desired level of doneness. Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. This will ensure you’re not over or undercooking it.

A quick tip: let your steak rest for a few minutes after it’s off the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite mouth-wateringly good.

There you have it, grilling steak on your Kamado Joe like a pro!

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Doneness

To get your meat just right, it’s crucial to monitor its internal temperature with a reliable meat thermometer. This tool is your best friend when it comes to achieving the perfect doneness. You don’t want to rely solely on the cooking time or the color of the meat.

Here’s a quick guide for you. For a rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 120-130°F. If you prefer medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. A medium steak should be 135-145°F, while medium-well is around 145-155°F. If you like your steak well done, shoot for 155°F and above.

Remember, you’re working with high heat when you’re grilling on your Kamado Joe. So, it’s key to let your steak rest after you’ve pulled it off the grill. During this time, the meat continues to cook a little more, raising the internal temperature by about 5°F.

Now, you’re well-equipped to grill your steak just how you like it. Don’t forget these tips next time you fire up your Kamado Joe, they’ll help you achieve steak perfection. Trust the thermometer, let your steak rest, and enjoy the fruits of your grilling labor!

Conclusion

So, you’ve got the basics down for cooking steak on your Kamado Joe. Remember, picking a quality cut, preparing it well, and mastering your grilling techniques are key.

Keep practicing, and don’t forget to check for the perfect doneness. With patience and persistence, you’ll be serving up mouth-watering, perfectly cooked steaks in no time.

Happy grilling!