What is a blue steak?

A blue steak, also known as bleu or very rare, is a steak that has been cooked very quickly on the outside, leaving the inside almost completely raw. The steak is seared on both sides for a short amount of time, leaving the center cold and blue in color. This cooking method is typically only used for very high-quality cuts of meat, such as fillet mignon, as it requires a precise level of heat and timing to achieve. Blue steak is not recommended for those who are pregnant, elderly, or have compromised immune systems due to the increased risk of foodborne illnesses associated with consuming raw meat. It is not commonly found on restaurant menus, but can be requested at some establishments with skilled chefs.