How to Cook Steak Perfectly on a Grill Mat: Kona Grill Mat Guide

Updated at: 27/12/2024

Achieving that perfect steak—juicy, tender, and with a beautiful sear—can seem like a culinary Mount Everest. But what if we told you the secret wasn't some rare breed of cattle or a top-of-the-line grill, but a simple, yet revolutionary, grilling accessory? Enter the Kona grill mat, a non-stick wonder that elevates your grilling game by preventing sticking and flare-ups, while delivering consistent heat distribution for flawlessly cooked steaks every time. Forget the frustrations of battling stubborn meat clinging to the grates; Kona grill mats provide a clean, easy solution for achieving grilling perfection.

This guide focuses specifically on mastering the art of grilling steak to perfection using a Kona grill mat. We'll cover everything from preparing your steak to choosing the right temperature and cooking time, ensuring you achieve that restaurant-quality result at home. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into our step-by-step guide to flawlessly grilled steaks using your Kona grill mat.

Safety Guidelines

  • Always preheat your grill to the recommended temperature for your steak thickness and desired doneness. A cold grill will result in uneven cooking and sticking.
  • Use tongs to handle the steak and grill mat to avoid burns. The grill mat and the steak will be hot!
  • Never leave the grill unattended while cooking. Monitor the steak's temperature closely to prevent overcooking or burning.

Methods: Cooking Steak with Kona Grill Mat

Tools Needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grill Mat

    • Preheat the Kona Grill Mat on the grill for about 2 minutes until it reaches around 430°F.
    Preheat the Kona Grill Mat on the grill for about 2 minutes until it reaches around 430°F.
    Prepare the Grill Mat

  2. Cook the Steaks

    • Place your New York strips directly on the hot Kona Grill Mat.
    • Monitor the temperature of the grill mat; it should ideally be between 470°F and 520°F for steak.
    • Cook the steaks to your desired doneness. Note that steaks may curl slightly due to heat.
    Cook the steaks to your desired doneness. Note that steaks may curl slightly due to heat.Cook the steaks to your desired doneness. Note that steaks may curl slightly due to heat.Cook the steaks to your desired doneness. Note that steaks may curl slightly due to heat.
    Cook the Steaks

  3. Serve the Steaks

    • Once cooked, remove the steaks using tongs and place them on a clean plate.
    Once cooked, remove the steaks using tongs and place them on a clean plate.
    Serve the Steaks

Tips

  • Use silicone coated or wooden utensils to avoid puncturing the grill mat.
  • Be careful not to overheat cheaper grill mats, as they can fail above 500°F. The Kona Grill Mat is more heat-resistant.
  • Clean the grill mat while it's still hot using a paper towel. Soapy water can be used for any remaining residue.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Grill Mat

Reason: Too much steak on the mat prevents even cooking and lowers the temperature, leading to unevenly cooked or tough meat.
Solution: Leave adequate space between steaks to ensure proper heat distribution and even cooking.

2. Ignoring Steak Thickness and Doneness

Reason: Cooking thin and thick steaks for the same amount of time results in overcooked thin steaks and undercooked thick ones. Not checking for doneness can also lead to disappointing results.
Solution: Adjust grilling time based on steak thickness and use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness.

3. Using Too High or Too Low Heat

Reason: High heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks through, while low heat results in long cooking times and tough steak.
Solution: Use medium-high heat for best results, ensuring a good sear while allowing for even cooking throughout.

FAQs

Can I use any grill mat with my Kona Grill Mat?
While you can technically use other grill mats, Kona Grill Mats are specifically designed for optimal heat distribution and non-stick properties. Using a different mat might affect the cooking results.
How do I clean my Kona Grill Mat after grilling steak?
Let the mat cool completely. Then, simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth or sponge. For tougher residue, a mild dish soap can be used. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
What temperature should I grill my steak at on a Kona Grill Mat?
The ideal temperature depends on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Generally, medium-rare is around 130-135°F, medium is 140-145°F, and well-done is 160°F or higher.