Simple Tips for Perfectly Seasoned Steak Every Time

Steaks have been an essential staple or element in most people's daily routines. A wide range of variety and dangerous cooking methods enhance their tastes. The first step in cooking aak is choosing the perfect cut for further preparation. After selecting the ideal Steak, one of the most critical elements is preparing and seasoning it to cook the perfect and flavorful Steak. 

Choosing the ideal type of seasoning for the Steak is very important. The flavors added while seasoning bring more taste to the Steak. The essential elements that people mainly use for seasonings are simple salt and pepper, but there is more to add. So here, in this detailed article, we will delve into knowing about the perfect seasonings for the steaks, simple tips for perfectly seasoned Steak every time, and many more. 

Different kinds of seasonings while preparing the Steak 

Here, we have mentioned the different kinds of seasonings that can help enhance the preparation and flavors of the Steak-

• Salt- Salt is one of the Steak's most common yet critical seasoning elements. It enhances the meat's natural flavors and helps create a delicious crust at the outer layer of the Steak at the time of searing. Kosher salt is usually preferred for seasoning as it has a coarse texture, which makes it easier to control the seasoning and allows it to adhere to the surface of the Steak evenly. Most people use sea salt or flaky salts for a minimal different texture and taste, but Kosher Salt remains the first preference for steak seasoning.

• Black Pepper- Black pepper is the second most common seasoning for Steak, but it is also an important element as it adds a sharp and spicy kick that complements the richness of the Steak. The freshly cracked black pepper provides the Steak a more aromatic and intense flavor than the pre-ground pepper. Some people prefer a coarse grind for a better texture, while others may opt for a finer grind. The black pepper is usually combined with salt to create a balanced and simple seasoning. 

• Garlic Powder- Garlic Powder offers a subtle and savory note that complements the Steak without overpowering it. It can be used in a complement with salt and pepper to add depth of flavor. Some people prefer garlic granules or freshly minced garlic, but garlic powder is a more convenient and effective way to infuse the garlic flavor evenly across the surface of the Steak. 

• Onion Powder- Like garlic powder, onion powder also provides a savory depth and mild sweetness. It works well in steak seasoning blends, which aim to create a savory and well-rounded flavor profile. Onion powder adds a delicate aromatic sweetness to the Steak without the sharpness of fresh onions, making it perfect for creating a seasoning balance. 

• Herbs- Herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano are mostly used to season the Steak. Fresh herbs, specifically rosemary and thyme, are often used to infuse the Steak with their fragrant oils. These herbs pair well with beef as they contribute to a woody and earthy aroma that complements its richness. 

• Paprika- Paprika is prepared from ground dried peppers and comes in various types, such as sweet, smoked, hot, and more. The sweet paprika adds a mild sweetness, while the smoked paprika brings a deep and smoky flavor that can enhance the Steak if it is cooked over high heat. Meanwhile, the hot paprika brings a touch of heat, which can be a great addition to spice up the seasoning. 

• Chili Flakes or Cayenne Pepper- Chili flakes or Cayenne Pepper are ideal seasoning options for those who prefer spice and heat. Cayenne pepper contains high heat and spice, and a pinch can give a fiery flavor to the Steak. whereas chili flakes provide a more nuanced and slow-building heat. Both elements can be mixed with other seasonings to create a balanced and natural flavor of the Steak. 

• Steak Seasoning Blends- A variety of commercial steak seasoning blends combine numerous of these flavors into a convenient mix, which mainly includes salt, pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, and other additional flavors. The blend is designed to provide a balanced seasoning profile that works well with a variety of steak cuts. 

• Other Flavor Enhancers- Sometimes, other seasonings and ingredients are used to flavor the Steak, including brown sugar, Worcestershire Sauce, and even a little bit of vinegar or balsamic for acidity. Some cooks or chefs also like to add a splash of olive oil to help the seasoning stick to the Steak, which can also contribute to creating a crispy and golden crust at the time of searing. 

Tips and Tricks for the Perfectly Seasoned Steak

Apart from using the different types of seasonings, some factors can help boost the flavors of Steak, and here are some of the tips and tricks that can help in preparing the perfect seasoned Steak- 

• Use of Salt and Pepper- The very basic step of seasoning the Steak is using a decent amount of salt and pepper. The basic seasoning combination of salt and pepper elevates the natural flavors of steaks and brings out their full potential. One important fact is that not all kinds of salt and pepper are created equally, and using the right amount can make a big difference in the final results of the dish. 

It is also advised not to use table salt for seasoning the Steak, as coarse salt is a better option as it enhances the Steak's natural flavors and brings out its richness. Meanwhile, pepper adds a subtle heat and crutch to the Steak, which locks in juices and flavors. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper will not give the Steak the taste and texture it requires to be delicious. Always use a clean paper towel to dry the Steak completely before seasoning, and once the Steak is dry, season both sides with plenty of coarse salt and pepper. Lastly, press the seasoning onto the Steak to help them stick together. 

• Drying the Surface- Once the Steak is seasoned, it should be placed on a wire rack within a sheet pan so that air can circulate the meat and dry out the surface. Moisture is said to be the enemy of a perfect crusty sear, so if the Steak is seasoned for more than two hours before cooking, then store it in the refrigerator without being covered. This practice will ensure that the Steak is seared quickly and is cooked more evenly. Also, it determines that the Steak has a denser and meatier texture. Remember to take the Steak out of the refrigerator for around 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. 

• Use the proper cut of Steak- Before cooking the Steak, the initial step is to choose the proper cut of Steak. Choosing the perfect cut of Steak is as crucial as choosing the type of seasoning. Every steak cut has unique qualities that make it perfect for different occasions and cooking methods.

Also, before choosing the Steak cut, it is important for a buyer to have knowledge about the cut they will be choosing, the cooking method they will be using, the outcome they want, the occasion they are cooking for, and many other factors, as every factor is interlinked with each other. So, using the proper cut of Steak for seasoning and cooking is important for the perfect results. 

• Marinate the Steak in a liquid- Marinating is the process of soaking the Steak or any main cooking ingredient in a liquid mixture before cooking it to instill the Steak with flavor and to make it more tender. The ideal marinade ratio involves an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, vinegar, herbs, spices, or oils. A high-quality steak is crucial to select for marinating as the premium cut of Steak is marbled with fat, which enhances the flavor and keeps the Steak moist when cooking. 

Various marinade options are available in the market, but if you want to opt for an authentic one, create one. An ideal marinade includes olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and many other preferred ingredients. Also, do not marinate the Steak for more than a day, as it slowly starts to rot due to the high acids in the marinade. For a perfect sear and crust, wipe off the excess marinade before cooking with a paper towel. 

• Use different dry-rub blends- The basic rubs are salt and pepper, which helps season the Steak, but trying different steak rub blends can enhance the flavor of Steak. Various spices and herbs can boost the natural flavors of the Steak and can add complexity to the overall taste. Also, adding specific general spices and rubs to the Steak seasoning is optional, but the cook can create a fusion of seasonings of their own choice by combining their preferred spices and herbs. 

For example, various spices and herbs like cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili, coffee, and more can be added to prepare a unique seasoning. Using different seasonings can change the taste of the Steak without opting for another steak cut. 

Conclusion

To conclude, achieving a perfect seasoned steak every time comes with several factors, and one of the essential aspects is choosing the correct seasoning and formulating it accurately. In the article, we have mentioned the simple yet effective options of seasonings like salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and more, which can work as a strong base. We have advised going for herbs like paprika, thyme, rosemary, and more for a deeper flavor. Several tips and techniques for seasoning the Steak can help enhance its flavor and outcome. The Steak will always be flavorful and satisfying with the right combinations and methods.