How to Cook the perfect steak The key here is moisture, a dry cooked steak, ends up dry. You can moisten the steak before you apply the real heat or to finish the dish. A steak should never be taken straight from the fridge and cooked without allowing it to warm through. Warm a pan with an equal quantity of your favourite cooking oil and unsalted butter, enough to just cover the steak. Place the steak in the pan and allow it to gently poach for a few minutes on each side, to avoid browning or sticking. The meat will now be warm, relaxed and ready to cook. Gentle cooking is now the final stage to bring the perfect steak to the table. Even a barbecue can be called gentle once the flames have died down and the coals are glowing white.