Grilling the Perfect Ribeye: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Charcoal Grill Success

Grilling the perfect ribeye steak on a charcoal grill is an art that can be mastered with a little patience and practice. The key to success lies in understanding the nuances of your grill, the cut of your meat, and the right timing. This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the process of grilling a ribeye to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful steak every time.

Choosing the Right Ribeye

Before you even fire up the grill, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Look for a ribeye that’s at least 1.5 inches thick with good marbling. The marbling, or fat distribution, contributes to the flavor and juiciness of the steak. Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling, which usually takes about 30 minutes.

Preparing the Charcoal Grill

While your steak is coming to room temperature, start preparing your charcoal grill. You’ll want to create two zones: a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for slower cooking. Light your charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with white ash. Then, arrange the coals to one side of the grill to create your two zones.

Seasoning the Ribeye

While your grill is heating up, it’s time to season your steak. Keep it simple with a generous amount of salt and pepper. The salt will help to draw out the moisture from the steak, creating a delicious crust when seared.

Grilling the Ribeye

Once your grill is hot and your steak is seasoned, it’s time to start grilling. Place your ribeye on the hot side of the grill and sear each side for about 2 minutes. This will create a flavorful crust. After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill and cover. Cook for about 10 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember, the steak will continue to cook after it’s removed from the grill, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking.

Resting and Serving the Ribeye

After grilling, let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a juicier bite. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Grilling the perfect ribeye on a charcoal grill may seem daunting, but with these steps, you’ll be serving up a delicious, restaurant-quality steak in no time. Happy grilling!