The process of grilling the perfect steak does not begin at the grill; it does not even begin in the kitchen. The process of grilling the perfect steak begins in the supermarket or store where from the steak is being purchased.
Grilling the perfect steak in the first instance requires that the correct type of steak be bought. The perfect steak for grilling would have to be sirloin or fillet steak. It is important to also look for a steak or steaks which have plenty of marbling. This is veins of white fat running through the body of the steak. The marbling in a steak not only helps to make it tastier, it assists in keeping the steak moist during the intense heat of the grilling process. It is important to also choose steaks which have a thick rind of fat still attached for the same reason, which should be removed only after the cooking process is complete.
Steak mallets are commonly used to assist in making steaks more tender. These should be used only for low grade steaks, however, which are to be included in such as a sandwich. Attacking a quality fillet or sirloin steak in this way is not a good idea. If desired, the steak may be marinated prior to cooking but this will of course affect the taste. What can be done to help eliminate any lingering doubts as to ultimate tenderness is to simply massage the steaks between the fingers for a couple of minutes, gently so as not to spoil their shape, and this will assist in relieving them of any tough tendrils which may not otherwise be removed during the cooking and resting process.
It is important to grilling the perfect steak that the grill be as hot as possible. Gas grills can of course be used but there is no true substitute for charcoal if the flavour is to be at its best. When the charcoal has therefore broken down and the flames have turned to embers, the steaks should be laid on the grill. They can be watched from the side to see how they are cooking but as a rule should only take about one minute on either side to be cooked to their optimum consistency.
When the steaks are cooked, it is important to allow them sufficient time to rest prior to eating them. This is because the tendrils in the meat will have seized during the cooking process and they must be allowed to relax so that the juices start flowing again. Eating the steaks straight from the grill will cause them to be tough and dry, however good quality they may be.
A heated plate and some aluminium foil with which to cover the steaks is the best fashion in which to allow them to rest. They should be allowed to do so for anything from five to ten minutes and then the perfectly grilled steaks may be served with the choice of accompaniments.