Steak Grilling Tips from Chef Dusmane Tandia of MASTROS NYC

With the barbeque season in full swing, Executive Chef Dusmane Tandia of Mastro's Steakhouse in NYC, has some excellent tips on how to grill the perfect steak. Tandia's suggestions will help you to wow your family and friends. Take advice from an expert! You'll feel like a total pro when you fire up the grill.

1) Season Generously: Be sure to liberally salt your steak a few hours in advance and let it sit, uncovered, in your fridge; this helps to season the meat all the way through. It also draws out some of the moisture in the meat, which will result in an even better sear.

2) Give it Some Counter Time: Let the beef come to room temp before putting it on the grill. This allows for a perfect salt crust to form.

3) Turn Up The Heat: Pre-heat the grill to make it HOT! Preheat grill to medium high/high. The grill needs to be hot to get those stunning grill marks!

4) Keep it Shut: Don't be tempted by the smoke and smell of your meat! Let the grill work and keep the hood shut. This allows for a more evenly cooked steak, and a quicker cook time.

4) Don't Cut Into the Steak to See If It's Done. To see if a steak is finished, press on it with the palm of your hand. You don't want to let those juices loose!

-Rare: Squeeze the pad at the base of your thumb. It should feel spongy and feel very little resistance.

-Medium: Press on the middle of the palm of your outstretched hand. It should feel firm.

-Well Done: Squeeze the base of your small finger. It should feel firm with no give.

5) The Cast-Iron is Your Friend: If you aren't confident in your grilling skills and you want that fool-proof steak, cook your meat in a cast iron skillet. It's one of the best surfaces for getting a perfect sear and crust.

6) Let it Rest: After cooking, tent the meat with aluminum foil and let the meat rest before cutting it and serving. This lets all of the juices settle, and will keep the beef moist.

Mastro's is located at 1285 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10019. Call 212.459.1222 and visit https://www.mastrosrestaurants.com/Locations/NY/New-York/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Mastro's Steakhouse

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