How to Grill Perfect Steak on Big Green Egg

By Jess V November 27, 2023 Accessories 0 Comments

Are you ready to take your steak grilling skills to the next level?

In this article, we’ll show you how to achieve the perfect steak on your Big Green Egg.

From choosing the right cut to mastering the grilling techniques, we’ll guide you through each step to ensure a juicy and tender result every time.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with the best grilled steak they’ve ever tasted.

Let’s get grilling!

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

When grilling steak on the Big Green Egg, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. The right cut of steak can make a big difference in the flavor and tenderness of your grilled masterpiece.

There are several factors to consider when selecting the perfect cut for grilling. First, think about the level of marbling in the meat. More marbling means more flavor and juiciness. Ribeye and New York strip are excellent choices with their well-marbled texture.

Secondly, consider the thickness of the cut. Thicker cuts, like a bone-in ribeye or a T-bone steak, are best for grilling as they can withstand the high heat and retain their juiciness.

Lastly, consider the grade of the steak. USDA Prime is the highest grade and offers exceptional tenderness and flavor, but it can be pricey. USDA Choice is a great alternative that still provides excellent quality.

Preparing the Big Green Egg for Grilling

To get your Big Green Egg ready for grilling, make sure you’ve properly preheated it. Prepping the grill is an essential step to ensure that your steak cooks evenly and achieves that perfect sear.

Start by removing any leftover ash or debris from the previous use. Cleaning the Big Green Egg will not only improve the flavor of your steak but also extend the lifespan of your grill.

Next, check the airflow by opening the bottom and top vents. This will allow for maximum heat circulation and control.

Before lighting the charcoal, arrange it in a single layer, ensuring there are no gaps. This will help promote even heat distribution. Once the charcoal is in place, light it using fire starters or an electric starter. Allow the charcoal to burn for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.

Seasoning and Marinating the Steak

Make sure you’ve properly seasoned and marinated your steak for maximum flavor. Here are some marinade options and seasoning tips to enhance the taste of your steak:

Marinade options:
Classic: A simple combination of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let the steak sit in this marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Teriyaki: Mix soy sauce, ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil for a sweet and savory marinade. Marinate the steak for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Seasoning tips:
Salt generously: Season your steak with salt at least 40 minutes before grilling. This will help the meat retain moisture and enhance its natural flavors.
Experiment with herbs and spices: Try adding rosemary, thyme, or chili powder to your steak for an extra kick of flavor. Be creative and tailor the seasonings to your taste preferences.
Let it rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.

Achieving the Perfect Grill Temperature

Achieving the ideal temperature for your grill is crucial in ensuring a deliciously cooked piece of meat. Proper grill temperature control is the key to achieving that perfectly cooked steak on your Big Green Egg. To start, preheat your grill to the desired temperature, whether it’s medium-rare, medium, or well-done. This will give you control over the cooking process and help you achieve the desired level of doneness.

One method to control the temperature is by adjusting the airflow. Open the vents to increase the temperature and close them to decrease it. By doing this, you can maintain a consistent temperature throughout the grilling process.

Additionally, you can adjust the grilling time based on the temperature you want to achieve. For example, if you prefer a medium-rare steak, you can cook it at a higher temperature for a shorter amount of time. On the other hand, if you prefer a well-done steak, you can cook it at a lower temperature for a longer period.

Remember to use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure that your steak reaches the desired internal temperature. This will help you avoid overcooking or undercooking your steak.

With proper grill temperature control and grilling time adjustment, you will be able to achieve that perfectly grilled steak every time.

Grilling Techniques for a Juicy and Tender Steak

For a juicy and tender result, you’ll want to let your steak rest before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and the fibers to relax, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent steak.

To achieve the perfect grilled steak, follow these grilling techniques and steak cooking tips:

Choose the right cut of steak:
Opt for cuts with marbling, such as ribeye or New York strip, as they tend to be more flavorful and tender.
Consider the thickness of the steak, aiming for at least 1 inch to ensure a juicy interior without overcooking the exterior.
Preheat your grill:
Ensure your grill is properly preheated to high heat before placing the steak on it.
This will create a nice sear and help lock in the juices.
Season generously:
Make sure to season your steak generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend, before grilling.
This will enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust.
Use the direct grilling method:
Start by searing the steak on high heat for a few minutes on each side to achieve a nice char.
Then, lower the heat and continue grilling until the desired doneness is reached.

Resting and Slicing the Steak

Once the steak has rested, you can slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness and juiciness. Resting the steak is an essential step in the cooking process, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent steak. To ensure optimal results, follow these resting techniques and steak slicing tips.

Firstly, after removing the steak from the grill, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and retain their moisture. During this time, cover the steak loosely with foil to keep it warm.

When it comes to slicing the steak, it is important to cut against the grain. The grain refers to the lines of muscle fibers running through the meat. Slicing against the grain means cutting perpendicular to these lines, which helps break up the muscle fibers and ensures a more tender bite.

To achieve thin, even slices, use a sharp knife and apply gentle pressure while cutting. Start by carving the steak into thick slices, and then slice each piece into thinner strips. This method helps maintain the steak’s juiciness and enhances its tenderness.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying the Perfectly Grilled Steak

When it comes to serving the perfect steak, there are a few key suggestions to keep in mind.

First, consider the best way to present and plate your steak, whether it’s on a simple platter or with a garnish.

Next, think about the ideal wine pairing to complement the flavors of your steak, such as a bold red wine for a juicy steak.

Steak Serving Suggestions

To complement your perfectly grilled steak, try serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a refreshing green salad. Here are some steak serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Appetizing steak presentation:
Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness and easier chewing.
Arrange the slices on a warm plate for an appealing presentation.
Delicious side dish ideas:
Creamy mashed potatoes: Whip up some fluffy mashed potatoes with butter and cream for a rich and creamy side.
Refreshing green salad: Toss together a mix of crisp lettuce, tangy vinaigrette, and colorful vegetables for a light and refreshing accompaniment.

Wine Pairings for Steak

For a delightful pairing, you should consider enjoying your steak with a glass of red wine. A robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a velvety Merlot are classic choices to complement the rich flavors of a perfectly grilled steak. The tannins in red wine enhance the meat’s taste and texture, creating a harmonious balance.

If you prefer a lighter red wine, a Pinot Noir can also be a great choice. However, if you’re not a fan of red wine, don’t worry! There are white wine options that can also pair well with steak. A full-bodied Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing contrast to the meat’s richness.

Ultimately, the choice between red and white wine comes down to personal preference, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect pairing.

Enhancing Steak Flavors

Enhancing the flavors of your steak can be achieved by marinating it with a blend of herbs and spices. By doing so, you can elevate the taste and aroma of your meat, making it more enjoyable to eat.

Here are some tips to enhance your steak presentation and grill it on other types of grills:

Marinating your steak: Create a marinade using a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic, along with spices like black pepper and paprika. Let the steak sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Searing the steak: For a beautiful presentation, preheat your grill to high heat and sear the steak for a few minutes on each side. This will give it a nice caramelized crust and enhance the flavors.
Using alternative grills: If you don’t have a Big Green Egg, you can still achieve delicious results by grilling your steak on other types of grills like gas or charcoal. Just make sure to adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.

With these tips, you can enhance the flavors of your steak and impress your guests with a beautifully grilled presentation, whether you’re using a Big Green Egg or another type of grill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grilling the perfect steak on a Big Green Egg is a rewarding experience that can be achieved with the right techniques.

By selecting the right cut of steak, properly preparing the grill, seasoning and marinating the meat, and mastering the grill temperature, you can ensure a juicy and tender steak every time.

Remember to let the steak rest before slicing and serve it with your favorite side dishes for a truly enjoyable meal.

Happy grilling!