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What to Season Steak With—helpful Tips for Making the Best Steak in the Hood
When I was a pretty basic cook, I thought cooking steak is the easiest job. Just put salt and pepper on it and throw it on the grill. Easy peasy lemon squeezy!
However, once, in my early 20s, I got the privilege to try one of the most juicy steaks with just the right amount of everything… and I suddenly realized I was missing out on something important—steak seasoning!
Steak seasoning is the most important step in cooking steak the right way, especially if you want to make a moist, juicy steak with lots of added flavor and sauce. The good part is, you can find different varieties of steak seasonings in your local store. But I always recommend making your own seasonings to tailor them to your specific tastes. Homemade steak seasoning… sounds like a dream!
So, here are some best steak seasoning ideas you can and should definitely try at home.
The Classics: Salt and Pepper Homemade Steak Seasoning
Black pepper and salt are one of the most dynamic combos of perfect steak seasoning you’ll ever find. That’s because by nature, salt is coarse and it draws out the meat’s excess moisture while intensifying its flavors. Meanwhile, black pepper adds a delightful kick and enhances the overall taste of your irresistible steak.
To master this steak seasoning, you have to do nothing… really.
Just season the steak with coarse salt and allow it to penetrate the surface gradually. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper evenly and let the steak rest at room temperature for a few minutes.
The Aromatic: Garlic Powder and Herb Rubs
Some people love herbs and spices to the extent that they would add them to everything… including steaks!
However, the herbs and spice blend gives a whole new meaning to your homemade steak. The addition of such herbs depends on the preference of everyone. Some like it pungent, while others love it sweet and savory! Whatever fits your tastebuds.
My perfect steak seasoning with a blend of herbs and spices includes:
- 2 tsp fresh garlic
- Mesquite seasoning
- Pepper and salt
Combine all three amazing ingredients and rub them over the steak properly. Allow at least 20 minutes to settle in and absorb the flavors. Enjoy with your favorite sauces and sides.
Raiding the Racks: Custom Dry Rubs
Nothing compares to the appetizing taste of a good steak rub that adds deep flavor and complexity to any steak cut possible.
The most captivating part about steak rub is you can make it at home or buy a pre-made steak rub from your local store. Either way, your steak would turn out just so sizzling and hot!
However, as a DIY enthusiast, I loathe getting the things from a local store when I could actually just make some yummier versions at home.
Here are some of my favorite dry rub steak recipes you can easily make at home!
Chili Powder & Brown Sugar Rub
Things you need:
One tablespoon of chili powder
Brown sugar, 2 tablespoons
Black pepper, freshly cracked, one teaspoon
One-half teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of powdered onion
How to season a steak:
Each steak should have an equal quantity of the mixture on both sides. To remove the meat’s grittiness, massage the rub into it.
Bourbon & Black Pepper Rub
This recipe is ideal for grilled steak and oven-broiled meat.
Things you need:
1/2 teaspoon of sage
Black pepper, freshly cracked, one teaspoon
one-half teaspoon of garlic powder
Thyme, 1/4 teaspoon
Brown sugar, 3 teaspoons
How to season steak
Season the steaks with a dash of bourbon before applying the rub. Make careful to season both sides of each steak with bourbon and spices.
Jalapeno & Butter Rub
Calling out all spicy food lovers! You will absolutely love this steak rub.
Things you need
1 tablespoon of jalapenos, diced
3 tablespoons of butter, melted
Black pepper, freshly cracked, one teaspoon
2 teaspoons of powdered onion
Seasoning a steak
Each steak should have an equal quantity of the mixture applied on both sides. Add a sprinkle of brown sugar to each piece for a little sweeter flavor and a beautiful crust.
How to Store Steak Seasoning
Of course, once you’ve prepared your steak seasoning, you would want to store it for later.
In order to keep using your favorite steak seasoning, you should preserve it correctly. Here are some tips to put your seasonings to good use, even after days.
- Avoid keeping steak seasoning in a warm, humid, environment because it may lose its flavor
- To check the freshness of steak seasoning, pick some leaves or seeds and crush them in your hand: If there’s fragrance, you’re good to go!
- Examine the color of your steak seasoning. If the color is fading, you might need to throw it up!
FAQs
What Do Chefs Season Steak With?
Chefs mostly go with a person’s preference. However, some of the common seasonings are kosher salt, grey sea salt, black and white pepper, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and a dash of sugar to add a savory kick to your steak.
Please note: Avoid using table salt for seasoning steak. Instead, use kosher salt or grey sea salt for adding that extra salty kick to your steaks.
What to Season a Steak With Before Grilling?
Before grilling, it’s ideal to brush your steaks lightly with olive oil or butter and sprinkle salt and pepper over them. You can also add a generous amount of spice blend, including chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices for extra flavor.
Do You Use Olive Oil to Season Steak?
Yes, you can use olive oil or butter to season the steak before grilling.
What Spices Go Well With Steaks?
Various. But most importantly, salt and pepper. You can also try thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, minced onion, or onion powder to enhance the overall steak flavor. But, always be mindful of adding too much seasoning as it may mess up the natural juices of your steak and end up ruining the flavor.
