What To Know
- Close the lid of the grill and cook the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- A good rule of thumb is to cook the steak to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for medium-well.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
Round steak, often overlooked for its tougher texture, can be transformed into a delicious and juicy meal when grilled properly. With a gas grill, you can achieve the perfect sear and even cooking that brings out the best in this budget-friendly cut of meat. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right cut to achieving that coveted restaurant-quality flavor.
Choosing the Right Round Steak
The first step to grilling a delicious round steak is selecting the right cut. While all round steaks are relatively tough, some are better suited for grilling than others. Here’s what to look for:
- Top Round: This cut is leaner and more tender than other round steaks, making it a good choice for grilling.
- Bottom Round: This cut is tougher than top round, but it can still be grilled successfully if you use a marinade or tenderizing technique.
- Eye of Round: This cut is the most tender of the round steaks and is often used for roasts. However, it can also be grilled, especially if it’s sliced thin.
When selecting a round steak, look for a cut that is evenly marbled with fat. This fat will help to keep the steak moist and flavorful during grilling.
Preparing the Round Steak for Grilling
Preparation is key to achieving a perfectly grilled round steak. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Trim Excess Fat: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the steak. This will help to prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure even cooking.
2. Tenderize: If you’re using a tougher cut of round steak, consider tenderizing it before grilling. This can be done by pounding the steak with a meat mallet or using a marinade.
3. Seasoning: Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
4. Marinating: Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, will help to tenderize it and add flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs is a good starting point.
Prepping the Gas Grill
Your gas grill needs to be prepped for optimal grilling results. Here’s how to get it ready:
1. Clean the Grill Grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates of any residue from previous grilling sessions. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F). You can check the temperature using a grill thermometer.
3. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil. This will help to prevent the steak from sticking.
Grilling the Round Steak to Perfection
Now comes the fun part: grilling your round steak. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Place the Steak on the Grill: Carefully place the steak on the preheated grill grates. Make sure to leave some space between the steaks to allow for even cooking.
2. Sear the Steak: Grill the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is nicely seared. This will create a flavorful crust and lock in the juices.
3. Reduce Heat and Cook Through: Once the steak is seared, reduce the heat to medium (about 350°F). Close the lid of the grill and cook the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Check for Doneness: You can check the doneness of the steak using a meat thermometer. A good rule of thumb is to cook the steak to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for medium-well.
Resting and Serving the Grilled Round Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, it’s crucial to let it rest before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
1. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
2. Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain. This will make it easier to chew and release the flavorful juices. Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
Tips and Tricks for Grilling Round Steak
Here are a few additional tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results when grilling round steak:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer. It’s a reliable way to avoid overcooking or undercooking the steak.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: Don’t overcrowd the grill with too many steaks. This will prevent the steaks from cooking evenly and may cause the grill temperature to drop.
- Don’t Flip Too Often: Flip the steak once or twice during cooking. Flipping it too often can lead to a dry steak.
- Experiment with Marinades: Try different marinades to add flavor to your round steak. Some popular options include soy sauce, honey, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
The Final Word: Round Steak Reinvented
By following these simple tips and techniques, you can transform a humble round steak into a delicious and satisfying meal. With a little practice, you’ll be able to grill round steak like a pro, impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I grill frozen round steak?
A: It’s best to grill round steak thawed and at room temperature. Frozen steak will take longer to cook and may not cook evenly.
Q: How do I know if my round steak is cooked to the right temperature?
A: Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature of the steak. A good rule of thumb is to cook the steak to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for medium-well.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled round steak?
A: Grilled round steak goes well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salads, and pasta.
Q: Can I use a marinade for round steak?
A: Yes, marinating round steak can help to tenderize it and add flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs is a good starting point.
Q: How long should I grill a round steak?
A: The grilling time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. A typical round steak will take about 5-7 minutes per side for medium.
