No matter which grilling method you opt for, one thing is sure - the perfect steak requires the perfect seasonings. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to begin.
Here are five essential seasonings that will take your steak from good to great:
- Salt and pepper are a classic seasoning combo for a good reason - they bring out the meat's natural flavor without overpowering it.
- Herbs like rosemary, oregano, and thyme add subtle flavor without overpowering the steak.
- Cumin, coriander, and turmeric can add flavor while letting the meat's natural sweetness come through.
- Rubs are an excellent way to add subtle flavor and spice to your steak without making it overly salty or fiery. Experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices until you find one you adore.
- Marinades are another excellent way to add flavor to your steak. Just be mindful not to marinate for too long, as the acid in the marinade may start breaking down the meat.
What's the Perfect Seasoning for a Perfect Steak?
Salt and pepper are two essential spices when it comes to grilling steaks. Not only do they enhance the flavor of the meat, but they create an all-around delicious taste as well.
Enhance the Flavor with Herbs
Herbs are an excellent way to add subtle flavor to your steak without overwhelming it. Some great choices for herb use include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil; sprinkle them over before grilling or incorporate them into a rub or marinade for extra flavor.
Kick It Up a Notch with Spices
Add an extra layer of flavor with spices to your steak seasoning mix! Cumin, coriander, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder all make great additions - just be mindful not to go overboard, as these robust flavors can be overwhelming when used in small amounts!
Get Creative with Rubs
A rub is simply a mixture of spices you rub onto the surface of your steak before cooking, creating an irresistible crust that keeps in juices and prevents drying out during preparation. There are endless possibilities when making unique rubs - get creative and experiment until you find something you love!
Marinades for Maximum Impact
A marinade is an effective way to add flavor to your steak. Combine ingredients (like soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, and spices) in a resealable bag or container before adding your steak and marinating for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours if you have the time). The longer you marinate your meat in this marinade, the more flavorful it will become; just be mindful not to overdo it, as too much marinade may make the meat mushy).
The Fundamentals of Seasoning a Steak
Finding the ideal balance of flavors when seasoning your steak is vital. Make sure no flavor is overpowering, yet all elements work together harmoniously. While this may sound difficult at first glance, seasoning becomes much simpler once you understand the basics.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when seasoning your steak:
- Salt is one of the essential elements when it comes to flavor. Not only does it enhance everything else in a dish, but too much salt can lead to an overly salty finish, so always taste as you go and adjust according.
- Pepper is another essential element for flavoring steak. It adds a kick of heat and depth, so grind it fresh for optimal results.
- Herbs can add an extra layer of flavor and complexity to steak dishes. Common herbs that go well with steak include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil; sprinkle them on top before cooking your steak, or stir them into a pan with olive oil for an easy herb-infused pan sauce.
- Spices can add a delicious layer of flavor to your steak. Popular herbs include chili powder, paprika, cumin, and coriander; sprinkle them on top or add them to a pan sauce for an extra kick.
- Rubs are an easy way to season your steak, and they couldn't be simpler to make. Mix salt, pepper, herbs, and spices until you have the desired flavor profile, then rub it all over your steak before cooking. For something extraordinary, try including coffee grounds or cocoa powder in your rub for an unexpected twist on flavor.
Preparing Your Steak for Maximum Flavor
Now that you understand the fundamentals of flavoring your steak, it's time to learn how to do so optimally. To start, select the appropriate cut of meat - three popular cuts include ribeye, strip steak, and filet mignon. Each has its distinct taste and texture, so it comes down to personal preference.
Once you've selected your cut of meat, the next step is to season it properly. That means using plenty of salt and pepper to cover the surface of the steak evenly. Then, if desired, add other herbs or spices or create a rub (see above).
When cooking your steak, please pay attention to the temperature and do not overcook it. The ideal cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and desired level of doneness; as a general guideline, allow two minutes per side for rare, three minutes per side for medium, and four minutes per side for medium. If in doubt, use a meat thermometer - internal temperatures should be 120 degrees Fahrenheit for rare, 130 degrees F for medium rare, and 140 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.
Once your steak is cooked to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. It helps the juices redistribute evenly throughout the meat, so they don't all run out when you miss it. Finally, serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Try these delicious, perfectly-seasoned steak recipes
The Classic
Ingredients:
- one 8 oz. filet mignon steak
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- one clove of garlic until minced
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides—place garlic in a small pan on top of the steak for flavor.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 8 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, and flip the steak over.
- Continue baking for another 7 minutes or until the steak is cooked to your preference. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Mediterranean Steak with Rosemary, Oregano, and Thyme
Ingredients:
- one 8 oz. filet mignon steak
- one tablespoon of olive oil
- one teaspoon of dried rosemary leaves
- one teaspoon of dried oregano leaves
- one-half teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400degF (200degC). Rub the steak with olive oil on both sides and season with rosemary, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak on a rack in a roasting pan and insert it into the preheated oven. Roast for 8 minutes per side to achieve medium rare meat; remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Indian-Style Steak with Cumin, Coriander, and Turmeric
Ingredients:
- one 8 oz. filet mignon steak
- one tablespoon of olive oil
- one teaspoon of ground cumin
- one teaspoon of ground coriander seeds
- 1/3 teaspoon turmeric powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees C). Rub the steak with olive oil on both sides and season with cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak on a rack in a roasting pan and insert it into the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 8 minutes per side to achieve medium rare, then let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Mexican-Style Steak with Chili, Paprika, and Garlic
Ingredients:
- one 8 oz. filet mignon steak
- two tablespoons of chili powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Rub steak with olive oil on both sides and season with chili powder, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Place the steak on a rack in a roasting pan, and insert it into the preheated oven. Roast for 8 minutes per side for medium-rare meat; remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Asian-Style Steak with Ginger, Soy Sauce, and Sesame Oil
Ingredients:
- one 8 oz. filet mignon steak
- two tablespoons of soy sauce
- one tablespoon of sesame oil
- one teaspoon of grated ginger root
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture all over the steak before placing it on a rack inside a roasting pan and inserting it into a preheated oven. Roast for 8 minutes per side for medium-rare meat, then remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making the Ideal Steak
When selecting a steak, the quality of the meat is just as important as the seasoning. Look for a high-grade cut with plenty of marbling (fat running through it). This fat adds flavor and helps keep the steak moist during cooking. Some significant cuts of beef for steak include ribeye, strip loin, and tenderloin.
Pay Attention to the Temperature
Temperature control is vital when cooking steaks. You want your steak cooked long enough to get a nice sear on the outside, yet not so long that it dries out or becomes tough. Thin steaks cook more quickly; aim for an internal temperature of 130-135degF for medium rare or 140-145degF for medium. To check this temperature during cooking, use a meat thermometer.
Don't Overcook Your Steak
Overcooked steak is dry, challenging, and not very pleasant to eat. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check your steak's internal temperature while cooking; take it off when it reaches your desired temperature. Another way to tell if your steak has reached perfect doneness is by touching it - medium rare should feel soft and tender, while medium should feel slightly firm when connected.
Let Your Steak Rest
After cooking your steak, it is essential to rest for several minutes before cutting it. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and moist. Place your prepared steak onto a cutting board or plate and cover loosely with foil or a kitchen towel; rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting into it.
Serve With the Right Sides
When serving steak, select sides that will enhance its flavor. If you've used a bold spice rub on your steak, opt for something light and refreshing like salad or roasted vegetables; on the other hand, if all that was done was the season with salt and pepper, go for something heartier like mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. Whatever choice you make, ensure they're ready before your steak has finished cooking so everything can simultaneously be served hot and fresh.
Conclusion
Now that you know the top seasonings for steak, it's essential to understand the fundamentals of herbs. By following these tips, you can guarantee a deliciously seasoned steak every time. And when in doubt, stick with salt, pepper, and garlic - they're guaranteed favorites!
