Celebrity chef Bobby Flay ignited a debate on TikTok last month after saying he prefers his burgers and steaks cooked medium (preach, Bobby!), not medium-rare, which is the presumed "standard" among foodies across the U.S.
He starts the video by noting that he suspects there's "gonna be a little bit of chatter about this."
Medium-Cooked Meat Is a Secret Among Chefs
Flay, who also owns a burger chain, appeared on the TODAY show last week to dive into the debate a little further while sharing his recipe for spicy steak frites. Apparently, this preference for a slightly more well-done steak is a bit of a secret among chefs, according to Flay.
@bobby_flay_ Random food though of the day… how do I like my burgers and steaks cooked? I’ll tell you… ♬ original sound - Bobby Flay
In his TikTok post, Flay says, "I have to tell you that a lot of my chef friends are admitting to me that they're looking at the medium instead of medium rare."
Is Medium Really the Superior Steak Temp?
The chef's TikTok comments are flooded with fans who whole-heartedly agree, some saying, "AMEN. Say it loud for those in the back," and "Finally, someone admits it. Medium is perfect."
Flay's reasoning? It's all about the fat.
"If the fat doesn't melt, then it's not as delicious. Like I don't want it overcooked, but I definitely want it to have some pink in there, but I also want it to be - I want the fat to melt so that it actually lubricates the beef itself," he said in his post.
How Do I Cook a Burger to Medium?
If you're a grill master who hasn't yet perfected how to tell the cook on a good piece of meat by touch, grab a handy dandy meat thermometer. You'll want to look for an internal temperature that registers between 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. This should leave you with a pale pink center and more flavor from the fat that's had an opportunity to render.
The next time you order a steak, will you go medium, like this Iron Chef, or stick with the classic medium-rare? The choice is yours!
