Touch

Appears in

Published 2014

The small size of steaks and chops makes using a thermometer impractical. The cook must depend on his or her sense of touch.

Meat gets firmer as it cooks. Pressing it lightly with the finger indicates its doneness. Press the center of the lean part, not the fat.

Rare. Feels soft, gives to pressure, though not as soft and jellylike as raw meat.
Medium. Feels moderately firm and resilient, springs back readily when pressed.
Well done. Feels firm, does not give to pressure.