When it comes to preparing a delicious steak, seasoning is key. The right blend of spices can enhance the natural flavors of the meat and take your dish to the next level. But with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which method to use: rubs, sauces, or marinades? In this blog, we’ll take a look at each option and help you decide which is the best seasoning for steak.
Rubs
A rub is a blend of spices that is applied directly to the surface of the meat before cooking. Rubs can be dry or wet, and they can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin. Dry rubs are simply a mixture of dry spices, while wet rubs include oil, vinegar, or other liquids to help the spices adhere to the meat.
One of the benefits of using a rub is that it forms a crust on the outside of the steak, which helps to seal in the juices and create a flavorful, crispy exterior. Rubs also allow you to control the amount of seasoning you add to the steak, so you can customize the flavor to your liking.
Sauces
Sauces are another option for seasoning steak. Sauces can be applied before, during, or after cooking, and they can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as tomatoes, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and mustard. Some popular steak sauces include chimichurri, béarnaise, and mushroom sauce.
One of the benefits of using a sauce is that it can add moisture to the steak, which can be especially helpful if you’re cooking a lean cut of meat. Sauces also add a lot of flavor to the meat and can help to balance out the richness of the steak.
Marinades
Marinades are a mixture of liquids and seasonings that are used to flavor and tenderize meat. Marinades can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as oil, vinegar, citrus juice, soy sauce, and herbs. The steak is placed in the marinade and left to soak for several hours or overnight.
One of the benefits of using a marinade is that it can help to tenderize the steak, which can be especially helpful if you’re using a tough cut of meat. Marinades also infuse the meat with a lot of flavor, which can help to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Best Seasoning for Steak
So, which method is the best seasoning for steak? The truth is, it depends on your personal preferences and the cut of meat you’re using. For a tender cut like filet mignon, a simple dry rub of salt and pepper may be all you need. For a tougher cut like flank steak, a marinade can help to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which method you prefer is to experiment with different seasoning options and find the ones that work best for you. Whether you prefer a dry rub, a sauce, or a marinade, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of preparing a delicious steak.