How To Cook A Steak In A Plastic Bag

How to Cook a Steak in a Plastic Bag: The Surprisingly Delicious Sous Vide Method

Want perfectly cooked steak every time, without the fuss of constant temperature monitoring? This method uses a simple plastic bag to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. This technique, a simplified version of sous vide cooking, offers incredible tenderness and consistent results, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks. This article will guide you through the process step-by-step.

This surprisingly simple method utilizes a technique similar to sous vide cooking, achieving restaurant-quality results without expensive equipment. You'll learn how to achieve perfectly tender and juicy steak, every single time.

What You'll Need:

• Steak: Choose your favorite cut – ribeye, New York strip, sirloin – the thicker the better. About 1-inch thick is ideal for this method.
• Zip-Top Freezer Bags: These are crucial for creating a good seal. Avoid using regular sandwich bags.
• Water: Plenty of it for the bath.
• Pot: Large enough to hold the bag comfortably submerged in water.
• Thermometer: A reliable instant-read thermometer is essential for checking the steak's internal temperature.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other herbs or spices you enjoy are perfect.

Step-by-Step Guide to Plastic Bag Steak:

1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear later. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Don't be shy with the seasoning!

2. Bagging the Steak: Carefully place the seasoned steak into a zip-top freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag. A vacuum sealer is ideal, but if you don't have one, carefully submerge the sealed bag in water, pushing out remaining air bubbles before fully sealing.

3. The Water Bath: Fill your pot with enough water to completely submerge the sealed bag. Bring the water to a simmer (around 185-200°F or 85-93°C for medium-rare). The exact temperature will depend on your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to monitor the water temperature closely.

4. Cooking Time: Once simmering, gently lower the bag into the water. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your preferred doneness. As a general guideline:

   • Rare: 1.5-2 hours at 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium-Rare: 2-2.5 hours at 135-140°F (57-60°C)
   • Medium: 2.5-3 hours at 140-145°F (60-63°C)
   • Medium-Well: 3-3.5 hours at 145-150°F (63-66°C)
   • Well-Done: 3.5+ hours at 150-160°F (66-71°C)

5. Searing (Optional): Once cooked to your desired temperature, remove the steak from the bag and pat it dry. For a beautiful sear, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes per side, until nicely browned.

6. Resting: Let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients: A better steak will result in a better final product.
• Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure the bag is fully submerged.
• Monitor the temperature: Use a reliable thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Experiment with seasonings: Find your favorite flavor combinations.

This plastic bag cooking method provides a surprisingly easy way to achieve perfectly cooked steak. Give it a try and experience the tender, juicy results yourself! Enjoy!