How to Season a Perfect Steak

Alright steak lovers, listen up! You know that moment when you take that first bite of a juicy, succulent steak and you feel like you've been transported to flavor heaven? Well, we're here to tell you that seasoning is the secret ingredient to make that happen.

Sure, you could stick with the classic kosher salt and black pepper combo, but why settle for basic when you could add a whole world of flavors to your steak? Think paprika, cayenne, chili pepper powder, garlic, and other herbs and spices. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

So let's dive into the juicy details of steak seasoning and learn how to take your steak game to the next level.

Why Should I Season a Steak?

Steak seasoning refers to a combination of herbs, spices, and spice blends that are used to enhance the flavor profile of steak. While many people season their steaks before cooking, they may not be aware of the benefits of this practice.

Firstly, it boosts the flavor of the meat, allowing you to fully savor the natural taste of the steak. With the addition of a good seasoning blend, you can elevate the taste and create a more complex flavor profile. Seasoning is also essential in helping to tenderize the meat.

Next, when you apply salt to the surface of the steak, it draws out the moisture, which then reabsorbs back into the meat during cooking. This increased liquidity helps break down the muscle fibers and results in a more tender, juicy steak.

The right seasoning blend can also add an extra layer of texture and aroma to the steak. For example, the use of rosemary, garlic, or thyme can give a unique, savory flavor to the meat. Meanwhile, the addition of smoked paprika can add a smoky depth to the steak's flavor.

Now that we've got your tastebuds flared up, let's jump into a bunch of unique steak seasoning recipes you can try on your own grill at home.

What spices go well with steak?

Of course, many people (and even professional chefs) think salt, pepper, and a little bit of olive oil or butter is all you need to make the perfect steak. But if you really want to mix up your steak game, feel free to play around with a combination of any of the following herbs and spices.

• Onion powder: adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor
• Paprika: adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor
• Brown sugar: adds a subtle sweetness
• Chili powder: adds a smoky and spicy flavor
• Parsley: adds a fresh, slightly bitter flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes: adds a spicy kick
• Thyme: adds a subtle herbal flavor
• Garlic powder: adds a pungent, savory flavor
• Rosemary: adds a strong, slightly piney flavor
• Cumin: adds a warm and earthiness

These herbs and spices can be combined in different proportions to create a unique steak seasoning blend tailored to your taste preferences. Just remember to season the steak generously on both sides before cooking for maximum flavor.

What’s the Best Way to Prepare and Season Steak?

One of the most important steps in preparing a perfectly seasoned steak is to start with a brine. To do this, sprinkle salt evenly over both sides of the steak at least 45 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat, drawing out any excess moisture and helping the steak to develop a crispy sear when cooked.

As the steak sits with the salt, the surface will start to look wet and a bit shiny, which is a good sign that the salt is doing its job. This process also brings the steak to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly.

When it's time to cook, rinse the steak with cold water to remove any excess salt and pat it dry with paper towels. At this point, you can add additional spices to enhance the flavor profile of the steak. This can include anything from freshly cracked black pepper to garlic powder, rosemary, or paprika.

Where Can I Buy the Best Tasting Steak?

If you're looking for the best-tasting steak, you should check out Wagyuman, where we specialize in importing 100% genuine Wagyu beef straight from Japan. With a wide selection of options to choose from, you can find everything from tender filet mignon to richly marbled ribeye and more.