My best steak on BA was when the cabin crew encouraged me to go for the steak with the words "I know how long to do it to make sure it isn't boot leather", that with the promise that they would reserve another meal in case I didn't like it.
Came out nicely medium rare, it was a point of pride for her that she could get them like that. I have also had a crew when I asked if they could take the steak out early "No, it has to stay in for the specified time".
I tend to weigh up the crew to see if they would be willing to reduce the reheating time or pick another meal. I'll also have my food later so not in conflict with other meal timings to increase chances.