Did you know that when Upton Sinclair wrote his 1906 masterpiece the Jungle, steak prices fell by 95% for about three years? Luckily , that book represents a turning point in regulations regarding the preparation and sale of meat, so today, the food you get is safe for consumption, so long as you cook it. Did you buy a steak, but have no idea what to do with it this time? If you are looking for steak cooking tips, we have a few recommendations for you here.

1. Cooking Steak on the Stove

Did you know that just this past week, McDonalds has announced they will be offering steak on their breakfast menu? It’s possible they’ll be cooking steak on the stove. What you need to know about this technique is that you should never begin with a cold steak. You want to take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise, the outside parts of the steak will overcook by the time the center is ready. When you’re cooking, a cast iron skillet is best for spreading out heat evenly. Brush with a bit of vegetable oil.

2. How to Cook Steak Tips in the Oven

When it’s too cold for the outside grill, an oven can be an acceptable substitute. For cooking steak tips in the oven, you will still need to use a cast iron skillet. You’re going to heat that for about five minutes on high heat. After seasoning your steak, cook it for a minute or so on the skillet. This will sear it. Then you will need to cook the steaks in the oven for about nine minutes.

3. Extra Cooking Steak Tips

Worried that your steak won’t come out as perfectly as you want it to? Before cooking your steak, leave it out on a paper towel for a couple of minutes. The moisture removal will help make the outside of the steak crispier. Seasoning can also help enhance the flavor of a steak, and simple additions like salt, pepper, garlic powder and cayenne pepper can make a big difference. Remember to cut your steak on a plastic cutting board away from other foods to avoid cross contamination.

Do you have tips for cooking steak on the stove or in the oven? Let us know in the comments!