For the sake of safety, it might be best to do your poking with another tool, like the edge of your tongs.

Keep in mind that the steaks will be extremely hot while they’re on the grill.

If you’re particular about how your steaks are cooked, you may be better off going with another method.

Texture can only serve as a rough guide.

Whisk together the olive oil, pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil grate. Finally, touch your pinky and thumb together to replicate the texture of a well-done steak in your palm. Lay steaks out on a platter and allow to come to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Touch your thumb and middle finger to emulate the texture of a medium-rare steak in your palm, and touch your thumb and ringer finger to mimic the texture of a medium steak.

You can use the texture of your palm as a reference for different levels of doneness! Touch your thumb to your pointer finger and feel the base of your palm-it feels slightly firm, like the texture of a rare steak. Sear steaks on the grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, and remove when steaks are cooked to your desired doneness.

When they’re just right, they’ll have a little give but will spring right back into shape. Undercooked steaks will have a squishy consistency, while overcooked cuts will be tough and leathery. Assuming you’re more of an intuitive grill master, you can simply employ the texture test. Press on the meat to feel how firm it is.

How long to cook flat iron steak