The USDA grading system rates beef according to the fat marbling within the muscle, but marbling does not necessarily guarantee tenderness and flavor. Select tender cuts of steak for children, and prepare the meat so it is completely cooked but not dry and tough. Young children are among those at increased risk for food-borne illnesses, so food safety is very important. Store uncooked steak in the refrigerator or freezer. Thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator or microwave instead of at room temperature on the counter. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching raw meat, and clean all surfaces before and after cooking to prevent contamination.
Step 1
Marinate the steak to improve tenderness so it is easier for children to chew properly. Italian salad dressing is a flavorful marinade sauce that won't be overpowering for children. The Association of Dressings and Sauces recommends using 1/2 cup of dressing per pound of meat. Less expensive cuts of steak, such as flank steak or round steak, tend to be tougher; allow them to soak in the sauce for at least three hours. Use a blade tenderizer first to break up tough fibers and yield an even more tender result. For more tender cuts such as rib eye or T-bone you can brush on the dressing as you cook the steak. Always marinate meat in the refrigerator.
Step 2
Preheat the grill or broiler. Cook grain-fed beef at a moderate temperature for a longer period of time. Typical supermarket beef is grain-fed. Grass-fed beef has a different muscle-fat structure, and it should be seared on the outside at a high temperature and then cooked. Use tongs instead of a fork to turn the steak to avoid poking holes that allow the naturally tenderizing juices to escape.
Step 3
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The National Institutes of Health recommends cooking steak to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, and maintaining a temperature of 140 degrees until serving time. Following safety protocol is especially important with young children with still-developing immune systems.
Tips and Warnings
- Cut steak across the grain into small bites so it is easier for small children to chew.
- Remove steak from the bone before plating for children.
Things You'll Need
- Grill or oven broiler
- Tongs
- Instant-read meat thermometer
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