A homemade steak rub can make all the difference at a barbecue. The proper blend of spices enhances the flavor of grilled meats and ensures your steak is extra delicious. Of course, it can also be used to seasoned poultry and pork, which makes a homemade steak rub all that more versatile in the kitchen.
So how does one actually make a steak rub? It's very easy! By mixing a few ground spices and herbs with salt you'll be able to whip up a steak rub in just minutes. Below are some of our favorite flavor combinations for homemade steak rubs.
Homemade Steak Rub with Peppercorns
Black pepper and steak were just meant to go together. For extra flavor, toast whole peppercorns in a dry skillet then allow them to cool before grinding. Then mix 2 tbsp ground pepper with try grinding your own peppercorns at home then blending them with 1 tbsp of ground cumin, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp onion powder.
Homemade Montreal Steak Rub
A Montreal steak rub is flavored with dill and coriander seeds, which impart a pleasant zestiness. Here is what you'll need: 2 tbsp cracked black pepper, 2 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp crushed coriander seeds, 1 tbsp dill seeds, 1 tbsp crushed mustard seeds, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp dried onion flakes, 1 tbsp granulated garlic, and 1 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Chinese Five-Spice Steak Rub
Black pepper, salt, cinnamon, cloves, star anise and fennel seeds come together in a fragrant seasoning worthy of the most expensive cut of meat. It also works well on vegetables and roasted spiced nuts. Find the full recipe here.
How To Apply A Steak Rub
image via Don Lavange/Flickr
Begin by coating the desired cut of meat in a bit of oil which will allow the rub to stick to it. Sprinkle a generous amount of the rub on one side of the meat, rubbing it in so it penetrates. Flip the meat over and repeat. For maximum flavor: the rub should be applied at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Hungry for more?
Pick up some tips on how to buy steak before you host your next barbecue. You'll be surprised to learn that a porterhouse steak isn't always better. Plus, a round up of the four main cuts of steaks you should be on the lookout for.