The Ultimate Guide on How to Cook Thick Ribeye on a Charcoal Grill: A BBQ Enthusiast's Dream
Written By Avi Green
How to cook thick ribeye on a charcoal grill is a question that many BBQ enthusiasts ponder. This guide will take you through every step necessary to achieve that mouth-watering, perfectly-seared, and juicy ribeye steak. Whether you're a novice griller or a seasoned pitmaster, this article will provide valuable insights and tips to elevate your grilling game.
Why Choose a Thick Ribeye for Grilling?
An often-asked question is why one should opt for a thick ribeye steak over a thinner cut. Thick ribeye steaks offer several advantages. First and foremost, their substantial size allows for a more pronounced sear, giving you that delightful crust without overcooking the interior. Moreover, the abundant marbling in a ribeye ensures a juicy and flavorful steak. Cooking a thick ribeye properly on a charcoal grill can turn a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience.
Tools and Cookware You'll Need
Before jumping right into the grilling process, it's essential to gather all necessary tools and cookware. A sturdy grill is foundational for grilling succulence into your steak. The Barrel Charcoal Grill or the more compact Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill are excellent choices for consistent heat and robust flavors. Of course, a quality set of knives is indispensable for precise cutting and slicing, such as this knives set.
Gathering and Preparing Your Ingredients
Ensuring you have fresh, high-quality ingredients can significantly impact the final outcome of your grilled ribeye. Head to your local butcher and select a ribeye steak that's at least 1.5 to 2 inches thick. The desired cut should have ample marbling, as this is where the steak's flavor and juiciness originate. Aside from the steak, you'll need sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a bit of olive oil for the initial season.
Ingredients
- Two 1.5 to 2-inch thick ribeye steaks
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil
- Optional: fresh rosemary and garlic
For the most authentic flavor, you can also add some fresh herbs such as rosemary or garlic right before grilling. These additional components will infuse your ribeye with fragrant notes, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Setting Up and Preparing Your Charcoal Grill
Once your ingredients and tools are ready, it's time to set up your charcoal grill. Opt for using high-quality lump charcoal, as it burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes. Building a two-zone fire setup is crucial for grilling thick ribeye steaks. To create a two-zone fire, stack your lit charcoal on one side of the grill (direct heat), leaving the opposite side empty (indirect heat). This arrangement allows you to sear the steak over high heat and then finish it off with indirect heat, ensuring a perfectly cooked interior.
Lighting the Charcoal
Using a chimney starter is the most efficient and environmentally-friendly method for lighting charcoal. Fill the chimney starter with charcoal and place a couple of crumpled newspaper sheets underneath. Light the newspaper, and in about 15-20 minutes, your charcoal will be ready for grilling. Remember, patience is key. Allow the charcoal to ash over, indicating that it's hot and ready.
Preparing the Ribeye Steak for Grilling
While the charcoal is heating up, it's the perfect time to prepare your ribeye steaks. Seasoning should be kept simple to let the rich, beefy flavor of the ribeye shine through. Generously coat both sides of the steaks with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. A slight drizzle of olive oil will help the seasoning adhere and result in a beautiful crust.
Simple Seasoning
Generously season your ribeye steaks with kosher salt for about 40 minutes before grilling. This process allows the salt to penetrate the meat, enhancing its natural flavors and ensuring a juicy steak. Add some freshly ground black pepper just before placing the steaks on the grill. Optionally, you can add some finely chopped rosemary and garlic to complement the ribeye flavors.
Grilling Techniques for the Perfect Ribeye
Achieving the Perfect Sear
With your charcoal fully heated, it's time to sear the ribeye steaks. Place the steaks directly over the coals (on the hot side of the grill) for 2-3 minutes per side. To obtain that coveted crosshatch pattern, give the steak a quarter turn halfway through each searing side. This technique promotes a flavorful crust that enhances the steak's texture and taste.
Indirect Cooking
Once you've achieved the perfect sear, move the steaks to the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat zone). Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to monitor the internal temperature. Cook the steaks until they reach your desired level of doneness:
- Rare: 125F
- Medium-Rare: 135F
- Medium: 145F
- Medium-Well: 150F
- Well-Done: 160F
Remember, the internal temperature of the steak will rise by about 5F after removing it from the grill. Adjust your timing accordingly to account for this carryover cooking process.
The Resting Period
After removing the steaks from the grill, resist the temptation to cut into them immediately. Allow the ribeye steaks to rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Cover the steaks loosely with aluminum foil to retain warmth while resting.
Serving the Perfect Thick Ribeye
The resting period is over, and it's time to serve your perfectly grilled thick ribeye steak. Use a sharp and sturdy knife from your knives set to carve the steak against the grain. Cutting it against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easy to chew. Pair your steak with complementary sides such as grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or a traditional baked potato to round out the meal.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cookware
After enjoying your delicious ribeye steak, it's essential to clean and maintain your grilling tools properly. Here are some handy tips:
Cleaning Your Grill
Use a stainless steel cleaner to remove any residue from your grill grates. This will ensure your grill remains in pristine condition for future grilling sessions. Regular cleaning not only prolongs the lifespan of your grill but also ensures a consistent grilling experience.
Caring for Your Cutting Board
A good cutting board is essential for preparing your ribeye steak. Use a cutting board conditioner to keep your cutting board in top shape. Conditioning your cutting board prevents it from drying out and cracking, ensuring a reliable surface for all your culinary tasks.
Conclusion
Mastering how to cook thick ribeye on a charcoal grill is a rewarding experience that transforms a simple steak into a culinary masterpiece. This comprehensive guide equips you with all the knowledge needed to achieve the perfect grilled ribeye from selecting the proper tools and ingredients to executing the grilling techniques and maintaining your cookware. Now it's time to fire up that charcoal grill and embark on your grilling journey, creating delicious memories and satisfying meals for you and your loved ones. Happy grilling!
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