What is the ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak?

The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak is between 130°F to 135°F. At this temperature range, the steak achieves a warm, red center, and maintains a juicy texture that enhances flavor and tenderness. Cooking steak to medium-rare also ensures that it is safe to eat while preserving the natural moisture and flavor, which are often compromised at higher temperatures.

Understanding these ranges is essential for BBQ experts, as they provide guidelines for achieving desired doneness while considering factors such as cooking method, thickness of the steak, and resting time, which can all affect the final outcome. It's also important for the health and safety of consumers, as consuming undercooked beef requires knowledge of proper handling and sourcing.