How Long to Cook a Medium Rare Steak on a Charcoal Grill?

By Avi Green July 20, 2024

There's nothing quite like the taste of a steak cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill. The smoky flavor combined with the juicy, tender meat makes for an unforgettable culinary experience. But achieving the perfect medium rare steak can be tricky. This article will guide you through the process and timing to achieve that. Let's dive into the details of how long to cook a medium rare steak on a charcoal grill.

how long to cook medium rare steak on charcoal grill

Why Medium Rare?

Before we get into the grilling specifics, let's talk about why medium rare is a popular choice. Cooking steak to medium rare brings out the best in terms of flavor and tenderness. A medium rare steak will have a warm, red center, is juicy and tender, and has a more pronounced beef flavor compared to steaks cooked at higher temperatures.

Preparing the Grill

Preparation is key to a successful grilling session. Follow these steps to set up your charcoal grill for cooking a medium rare steak:

Clean the grill grates to ensure there are no remnants from previous grilling sessions.
Fill the charcoal chimney with charcoal and light it. Allow the charcoal to burn until covered with a light gray ash. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Spread the hot coals evenly over the bottom of the grill, creating a two-zone fire: one side with direct heat and the other side with indirect heat.
Place the grill grates back on the grill and allow them to heat up for 5-10 minutes.

Choosing the Right Cut

Not all steaks are created equal when it comes to grilling. Here are some of the best cuts for achieving a medium rare steak:

Ribeye: Known for its marbling and flavor, ribeye is a classic choice for grilling.
New York Strip: This slightly leaner cut is still tender and flavorful when cooked to medium rare.
Filet Mignon: The most tender cut of beef, filet mignon is perfect for those who prefer a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Porterhouse: Combining the best of both worlds, the porterhouse includes both the tenderloin and the strip steak.

The Grilling Process

Now that your grill is prepared and you've chosen your cut, it's time to get grilling. Follow these steps to cook a medium rare steak on a charcoal grill:

1. Season the Steak

Generously season your steak with salt and pepper. You can also use your favorite steak rub or marinade. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.

2. Searing

Place the steak on the direct heat side of the grill for a good sear. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes or until you see a nice crust form. This caramelizes the exterior and locks in the juices.

3. Cooking to Temperature

After searing, move the steak to the indirect heat side of the grill. Cover the grill and allow the steak to cook to your desired temperature. For medium rare, you want an internal temperature of 130-135F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

4. Resting

Once your steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

5. Serving

After resting, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling a steak to medium rare perfection can be challenging, especially for beginners. Avoid these common mistakes:

Overcooking: Remember, steaks continue to cook after they are removed from the grill. It's better to slightly undercook than to overcook.
Improper Seasoning: Don't be afraid to generously season your steak. The seasoning helps enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Skipping the Resting Period: Resting is crucial for a juicy and flavorful steak. Don't skip this step.

FAQs

1. Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can use a gas grill, but it won't provide the same smoky flavor that charcoal does. Follow the same grilling and timing steps for a gas grill.