Steak Seasoning: Ideas for Creating Your Own Signature Blend at Home

At Meatguy Steakhouse, we pride ourselves on understanding the importance of perfectly seasoned steaks and providing our middle to upper-class consumers with delicious and memorable meat dishes.

In this article, we will explore essential steak seasonings, share tips for creating your own signature blend at home, and discuss some frequently asked questions related to steak seasoning.

What seasoning should I put on steak?

The choice of seasoning for your steak ultimately depends on your personal taste preferences. However, there are a few classic seasonings that can help bring out the natural flavors of the meat. 

Some essential seasonings to consider include salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. 

These seasonings, when used in the right proportions, can significantly enhance the taste of your steak while maintaining its natural flavors.

What herbs and spices go with steak?

Apart from the basic seasonings mentioned above, several herbs and spices can complement the flavors of your steak. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Fresh herbs

Rosemary, thyme, and parsley are popular choices for adding an aromatic touch to your steak. They can be used either chopped and sprinkled over the steak or added whole during cooking to infuse their flavors.

2. Dried herbs

Oregano, basil, and tarragon can also be used in your seasoning mix for a more concentrated flavor.

3. Spices

For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Smoked paprika, cumin, and coriander can also add depth and complexity to your seasoning blend.

Read more: How to Grill the Perfect Filet Mignon: Tips and Techniques for Juicy and Flavorful Steaks

How to season steaks simply?

To season your steak simply and effectively, follow these steps:

1. Pat your steak dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Drizzle a small amount of oil (such as olive oil) onto the steak and rub it evenly on both sides. This helps the seasoning to adhere to the meat and promotes even cooking.

3. Sprinkle your chosen seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.) evenly over both sides of the steak, pressing them gently into the meat to ensure they stick.

4. Allow the steak to rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, enabling the seasonings to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavors.

5. Cook your steak to your desired level of doneness, using your preferred cooking method (grilling, pan-searing, or broiling).

Remember that seasoning your steak is all about personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and quantities to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

Creating Your Own Signature Blend

Crafting a signature steak seasoning blend allows you to bring a personal touch to your favorite cuts of meat, elevating your at-home dining experience. Here, we'll share some tips for experimenting with different herbs, spices, and flavors, and provide a list of suggested ingredients to start creating your own blend.

Tips for experimenting with different herbs, spices, and flavors:

1. Start with a base

Begin by selecting a few essential seasonings, such as salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These ingredients will serve as the foundation of your blend and can be built upon with additional flavors.

2. Add layers of flavor

Experiment with various herbs and spices to create a unique combination. Consider incorporating flavors that complement each other, such as sweet and spicy or earthy and zesty.

3. Taste as you go

As you create your blend, make sure to taste it along the way. This will help you determine whether you need to adjust the proportions of ingredients to achieve a balanced flavor.

4. Take notes

Keep track of the ingredients and their quantities as you experiment. This will make it easier to recreate your favorite blends in the future.

Read more: The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Meat: From Salads to Potatoes to Vegetables

Balancing flavors for the perfect seasoning:

A well-balanced seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of the steak without overpowering it. Striking the right balance between salty, sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors will result in a harmonious and delicious blend that complements the meat beautifully.

List of suggested ingredients to start creating your own blend:

• Salt 

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Paprika (regular or smoked)

• Cayenne pepper

• Red pepper flakes

• Cumin

• Coriander

• Dried oregano

• Dried basil

• Dried rosemary

• Dried thyme

• Brown sugar or granulated sugar (for a touch of sweetness).

Do you put salt or seasoning on steak?

The decision to use salt or seasoning on your steak largely depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile. However, it is important to note that salt plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste of the meat.

Salt is an essential component of any seasoning blend, as it helps to amplify the flavors of the meat and other seasonings. The type of salt you choose can also affect the outcome of your dish. 

For instance, kosher salt or sea salt are typically recommended for seasoning steaks due to their coarser texture and cleaner taste.

When seasoning your steak, it is best to apply salt just before cooking. Salting the meat too early can draw out moisture, potentially resulting in a drier steak. However, if you plan to marinate your steak for a longer period, you can add salt to the marinade to allow the flavors to penetrate more deeply.

Read more: Cooking with Charcoal: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes for Grilling Meat to Perfection

Exploring Unique Seasoning Options

Is everything seasoning good on steak?

Everything seasoning, a popular blend typically used on bagels, can also be a unique and tasty option for seasoning steaks. The mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt can add a deliciously savory and slightly crunchy element to your steak. While unconventional, it is worth trying to see if it suits your taste preferences.

Other unconventional seasoning ideas to try:

1. Coffee rub

Combine freshly ground coffee with spices like cumin, paprika, and brown sugar for a rich, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. This rub is particularly well-suited for hearty cuts like ribeye or New York strip.

2. Curry powder

Create an aromatic, Indian-inspired steak by seasoning with a blend of curry powder, salt, and pepper. Pair with a cooling yogurt sauce for a delicious fusion of flavors.

3. Za'atar

This Middle Eastern spice blend, made from thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, brings a zesty and slightly tangy flavor to your steak. Complement the seasoning with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

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We have explored the importance of seasoning steaks and the seemingly endless possibilities when it comes to creating your own signature blend. 

From essential seasonings and herbs to more unconventional options, the world of steak seasoning is vast and ripe for experimentation. As you embark on your seasoning journey, remember that a well-balanced blend will enhance the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering it.

We would love to hear about your favorite steak seasoning recipes and any new combinations you've discovered. When you're ready to treat yourself to a truly exceptional dining experience, be sure to visit Meatguy Steakhouse, where our skilled chefs are ready to tantalize your taste buds with a variety of perfectly seasoned steaks and other exquisite meat dishes.