“The most important thing I try to get people to do is touch their meat,” says Dr. BBQ. “By comparing the steak’s tenderness to the soft part of your thumb as you touch each finger to the tip of your thumb, you can tell how done it is,” he says.  Confused? Follow us:

Touch It! - rare

 

Index finger: Rare
The base of your thumb should feel spongy and soft.
Steak Temp: About 140°F.

 

 

 

Touch It! Medium rare

Middle finger: Medium Rare
Your fleshy thumb pad has a little less give.
Steak Temp: About 145°F.

 

 


Touch It! Medium Well

 

Ring finger: Medium Well
Even Firmer! Mmm, that thumb’s looking good,  huh?
Steak Temp: 160°F.

 

 

 

Touch It! Well Done

 


Pinkie: Well Done
Your thumb’s hard. The beast is dead. Hope you’re happy!
Steak Temp: 170°F.

 

Ray Lampe, a.k.a. Dr. BBQ, is the executive chef at Southern Hospitality, N.Y.C.