Forget the meat thermometer — chefs have long used a simple hand test to judge steak doneness to perfection. This technique, favoured by professional chefs, requires only your hand and a little practice, ensuring you never overcook your steak again.
How to Check Your Steak's Doneness
Open your hand and, keeping it fully relaxed, press the index finger of your other hand against the soft, fleshy pad situated between your thumb and wrist. This is what a raw cut of steak feels like.
Next, gently bring the index finger of your open hand to meet your thumb. Press the same spot once more and notice the subtle change in firmness. This is what a rare steak will feel like.
For a medium-rare steak, touch your middle finger to your thumb and press again. Your ring finger will give you the feeling of a medium-cooked steak, and your little finger will give you well-done.
Applying the Technique
To use this trick while cooking, choose which finger represents your favourite level of doneness and check with your hand. Once you have felt the corresponding firmness on your hand, touch the steak you're cooking in the pan and compare the sensations.
It may require a degree of experimentation to perfect — but once you've mastered it, you'll never find yourself under or overcooking a steak again.
