How do you rub a steak?

Rubbing a steak is a great way to add flavor and moisture. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Choose your rub:

* Dry Rub: This is the most common type of rub. It consists of herbs, spices, and sometimes salt and pepper. A good dry rub can enhance the flavor of the steak and create a beautiful crust. Some popular dry rub combinations include:

* Garlic & Herb: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

* Cajun: Paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt.

* Coffee: Coffee grounds, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin.

* Wet Rub: This is similar to a marinade but doesn't fully submerge the steak. Wet rubs often include ingredients like mustard, yogurt, or oil to help the flavors adhere to the meat.

* Mustard & Herb: Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and salt.

* Yogurt & Garlic: Plain yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.

2. Prepare the steak:

* Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

* If desired, you can score the steak by making shallow cuts across the surface. This helps the rub penetrate deeper and prevents curling during cooking.

3. Apply the rub:

* Dry Rub: Generously rub the chosen dry rub all over the steak, making sure to cover all sides.

* Wet Rub: Spread the wet rub evenly over the steak, gently massaging it into the surface.

* Tip: You can use your hands, a brush, or a spoon to apply the rub.

4. Let the steak rest:

* Allow the steak to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and up to 24 hours. This allows the rub to penetrate the meat and develop flavors.

5. Cook the steak:

* Cook the steak according to your preferred method (grilling, pan-searing, etc.)

* Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan or grill, as this can prevent the steak from getting a nice sear.

6. Rest the steak after cooking:

* Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Enjoy your perfectly rubbed steak!