Using oil when cooking a steak is a common practice and can help enhance the flavor, prevent sticking, and promote even cooking. Here are some common methods for using oil when cooking a steak:
Pan-frying: When cooking a steak on the stovetop in a pan, it's typical to add a small amount of oil to the hot pan before placing the steak in it. You can use a high smoke-point oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil, which can withstand the high heat without burning.
Grilling: If you're grilling a steak, it's common to brush some oil on the steak's surface before placing it on the hot grill grates. This helps prevent sticking and gives the steak a nice sear.
Oven-baking: When baking a steak in the oven, you can lightly coat the steak with oil or use a marinade that includes oil to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
While using oil is a common approach, some people prefer dry-searing steaks, which involves cooking the steak in a hot, dry pan without any oil. This technique can create a beautiful crust on the steak, but it requires a well-seasoned pan and careful attention to prevent sticking.
Ultimately, whether to use oil or not depends on your personal preference and the cooking method you choose. If you do use oil, remember to use it in moderation to avoid excessive greasiness or flare-ups if you're grilling.