Preference for steak? I applaud you (4,4)
I believe the answer is:
well-done
'i applaud you' is the definition.
I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for well-done that I've seen before include "Commendation for achievement" , "No pink inside?" , "Congratulations - certainly not rare!" , "Congratulations - cooked right through" , "Thoroughly cooked or meritoriously accomplished" .)