What sensory indication helps identify the proper temperature of a medium rare steak?

The proper temperature of a medium rare steak is often identified through the sensation of texture when pressed. A medium rare steak should have a specific firmness that corresponds to its doneness level; it feels tender yet slightly resistant when pressed with a finger. This tactile cue is particularly useful because the internal temperature of a medium rare steak typically ranges from 130°F to 135°F, resulting in a juicy and soft texture that is distinctive and easy to recognize through touch.

While color visualization and smell may provide insights into the steak's cooking stage, they are not as definitive as feeling the texture. Listening to any noises made by the steak while cooking is not a reliable method for assessing doneness, as steaks do not emit distinctive sounds that correlate with their internal temperature. Thus, feeling the texture is the most direct and accurate way to identify whether a steak is medium rare.