I don't cook steak often enough to know when it's ready by touching it. I like it rare. I think brining a turkey does make a difference. I've never tried just doing the thing with salt, so I don't know whether you get the same effect. As to steak, this is an interesting article: http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/05/food-lab-how-to-grill-steak-cuts-of-steak-marbling-salting-charcoal-technique-resting-tips.html