If your steak turns out tough after searing it in a cast iron skillet, there are several factors you can consider and techniques you can try to achieve a more tender result. Here are some tips to make a steak less tough:
Choose the right cut of meat: The tenderness of a steak largely depends on the cut of meat you choose. Some cuts, like ribeye, tenderloin, and striploin, are naturally more tender than others. Look for well-marbled cuts with fat distributed throughout the meat for added tenderness and flavor.
Use a meat mallet or tenderizer: Before searing, you can use a meat mallet or tenderizer to break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender. Gently pound the steak on both sides to help tenderize it.
Marinate the steak: Marinating the steak before cooking can add flavor and help break down the connective tissues, resulting in a more tender texture. Use a marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt, as they can tenderize the meat.
Season the steak properly: Before searing, make sure to season the steak generously with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to draw out moisture, which can contribute to a more tender texture.
Allow the steak to rest: After searing the steak, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender steak.
Consider sous vide cooking: If you have a sous vide machine, you can try cooking the steak using this method before searing it in the cast iron skillet. Sous vide cooking allows for precise temperature control and can yield a very tender and evenly cooked steak.
Adjust cooking time and temperature: Ensure that you are not overcooking the steak. Pay attention to the cooking time and temperature. Cooking the steak to the desired doneness (rare, medium-rare, medium, etc.) can make a significant difference in its tenderness.
Slice against the grain: When serving the cooked steak, be sure to slice it against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which further helps to break down the meat's toughness.
By following these tips and techniques, you should be able to improve the tenderness of your steak after searing it in a cast iron skillet.