One of the coolest cooking tricks with a cast iron skillet is using it to achieve a perfect crust on steaks or other meats. Here's how you can do it:
Preheat the skillet: Place your cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high to high heat and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. You want the skillet to be very hot to achieve a good sear.
Prepare the steak: While the skillet is heating, season your steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, as this helps with browning.
Add oil: Once the skillet is hot, add a high smoke point oil such as canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
Sear the steak: Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. It should sizzle immediately. Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crust on one side.
Flip and finish in the oven (optional): Once a good crust has formed on one side, use tongs to flip the steak over. If you prefer your steak cooked to medium-rare or medium, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at around 400°F (200°C) to finish cooking. The oven helps to distribute heat evenly and prevents overcooking the outer layers while ensuring the desired internal temperature.
Rest the steak: Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board or a plate for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier steak.
By using a cast iron skillet for searing, you can achieve a beautiful caramelized crust on your steak while maintaining a tender and juicy interior. Just be cautious when working with a hot skillet and remember to use appropriate oven mitts or pot holders.