Chef Mike Alfarah has shared his expert tips on cooking the perfect steak using a surprising secret ingredient and says it is key to achieving a perfect sear. So would you give it a go?
The Unexpected Ingredient
Cooking a steak may seem like a doddle on the outset – as all you need is a hot pan, a pinch of seasoning and a couple of minutes on each side. However, executing the dish is easier said than done. Too long in the pan can make the meat dry out, too little and you may hear the steak mooing from the plate. Then there is also the pressure of nailing the flavour, texture, and sear, which is a lot to think about.
Thankfully, though, there are plenty of culinary experts out there who can help make the process much easier. One of them is chef Mike Alfarah, who has shared his distinctive approach for producing the most succulent steak you can imagine.
In an instructional Instagram video, Mike revealed that many have been coating their steak in mayonnaise before searing. Yes, you read that correctly! While it may sound like a bonkers idea, coating steak in a thin layer of mayo before pan-frying can work well because the ingredient is basically oil and egg emulsified, often with a little acid.
Why It Works
Used properly, it helps you brown the surface evenly and can reduce sticking. It adds more fat than oil would – and does not seem to burn as badly as butter does in the pan.
Trying out the tip for himself, chef Mike said: "Even though I have heard of this hack a few times, I am not really a mayo fan but in the name of steak science, it is only right we give it a try!" Chef Mike predicted: "I am pretty confident this is going to work really well because mayo is fat and that is the key to a good sear and you better believe I am going to use that fat from the mayo in the pan to baste the steak as well."
Showing off the finished results, Mike added: "From the looks of it, we have a pretty perfect sear, and again, I am not surprised that this worked really well, but I am really curious. Did it affect the taste?" Proudly showcasing his perfectly cooked steak, Mike told his followers: "Not only did that give a perfect sear but it tastes incredible."
Viewer Reactions
Viewers were left gobsmacked by the unorthodox technique but said they would be willing to give it a go. One wrote: "Yes, trying it. Works on chicken and grilled sandwiches, too!"
