Grill Master's Guide: What to Season Steaks With?

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Discussion Overview

The thread focuses on various seasoning options for grilling steaks, with participants sharing their personal preferences and experiences regarding different seasonings and techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions using Season-all but is looking for new ideas for steak seasoning.
  • Another participant shares their preference for Crushed Peppercorn and Garlic rub.
  • One user highlights a Garlic & Sea Salt grinder from McCormick as a family favorite for steak seasoning.
  • A participant describes using an all-purpose seasoning called "complete seasoning" and discusses its versatility.
  • Another participant expresses disappointment over the discontinuation of a previous seasoning but supports the Crushed Peppercorn and Garlic rub as a good alternative.
  • One user mentions using Montreal Steak Seasoning or Paula Deen's House Seasoning.
  • Another participant advocates for using coarse sea salt and allowing the meat to sit at room temperature before cooking.
  • One participant raises a concern about salting steak before cooking, citing a belief that it may dry out the meat.
  • A user counters this belief, referencing a cooking show that suggests salting can enhance flavor and discussing the importance of meat temperature before grilling.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of salting steak before cooking, with some participants supporting it while others express caution based on common beliefs.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal experiences and preferences regarding steak seasoning, reflecting a range of culinary practices and beliefs.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants interested in grilling techniques and seasoning options may find the shared experiences valuable for their cooking endeavors.

AJPratt
AJPratt
Silver Member
Messages
6,674
We are grilling steaks tonight and wanted to try something different. Usually we use Season-all. What do you usually use to season your steaks?
 
Crushed Peppercorn and Garlic rub, of course! ;)
 
McCormick makes a Garlic & Sea Salt grinder that my family LOVES, especially on steak. That with a little bit of pepper is about all we use anymore.
 
I found an all-purpose seasoning called "complete seasoning" in the Mexican foods aisle at the store, and it is a blend of spices like garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and some other stuff. It also has a little msg in it. We use it for everything and it tastes great. You can sprinkle it dry or I mix it with a little oil and vinegar or wine to make a wet marinade.I also just bought a bottle of "steak dust" at Sam's Club last week. Haven't tried it yet, but I wonder if that is how restaurants give steak that "steakhouse" flavor...
 
DebbieJ said:
Crushed Peppercorn and Garlic rub, of course! ;)
Click to expand...

I have to agree with Deb on this one..

I am disappointed that they got rid of the Bell Pepper and Herb run..but..this one is definately a second to that.
 
I use Montreal Steak Seasoning or Paula Deen's House Seasoning
 
Crushed Peppercorn and Garlic rub is a MUST!!
 
Use our coarse sea salt. Salt the meat on both sides and let it sit on the counter until it is room temperature -- you will see moisture bubbles on the meat from the salt. The meat will be very tender.
 
I've always heard not to salt steak before cooking because it will draw all the moisture out of the meat and make for a dry end result... anyone else have success with salt before grilling?
 
I just saw that addressed on Good Eats, Joy. It's a bit of a myth that salting meat before grilling will dry it out. You do want to season it, because you'll get better flavor than seasoning it on the plate. And it will pull some moisture out, but not all, and certainly not enough to dry out the meat. It's more important to have the meat at room temp before cooking it so that the outer "layers" aren't overcooked before the middle gets hot. So take it out of the fridge at least half an hour before cooking.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best seasonings for grilling steaks?

The best seasonings for grilling steaks typically include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These enhance the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering it. For a more complex flavor, you can also consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Should I marinate my steak before grilling?

Marinating your steak can add flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, vinegar or citrus juice, and your choice of herbs and spices can work wonders. However, if you prefer a more straightforward grilled flavor, seasoning the steak just before cooking can also be effective.

How long should I let my steak sit with seasoning before grilling?

It's recommended to let your steak sit with seasoning for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. For more intense flavor, you can season it and let it rest in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Can I use a dry rub instead of liquid marinades?

Yes, a dry rub is an excellent alternative to liquid marinades. A mixture of spices and herbs can create a flavorful crust on the steak as it grills. Just be sure to apply the rub generously and let it sit for a while to absorb the flavors.

What should I avoid when seasoning steaks?

Avoid using too much salt, as it can draw moisture out of the meat and make it tough. Additionally, steer clear of overly strong spices that can overpower the natural flavor of the steak. It's best to keep it simple and let the quality of the meat shine through.

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