What is the characteristic of a steak cooked to 'Medium'?

• A. Warm pink center with a touch of red
• B. Cool red center
• C. Gray throughout with no pink
• D. Pink center with a cool edge

Answer: (A)

A steak cooked to 'Medium' is characterized by a warm pink center with a touch of red. This doneness level strikes a balance between the more tender, juiciness of medium-rare and the firmer texture of medium-well. The interior of a medium steak typically measures around 140°F to 145°F, which allows for a consistent, warm pink hue throughout, with the slight red indicating that the steak is not yet fully cooked through, but retains a good amount of moisture and flavor.

The other doneness levels either feature more significant red, which would indicate less cooking, or a completely gray appearance, suggesting overcooking. As a result, the description of a warm pink center with a touch of red accurately reflects what diners can expect from a steak cooked to medium.