Copycat McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning: A Flavorful Tribute

I remember the first time I truly understood the magic of a well-seasoned steak. My grandfather, a man of few words but incredible grilling prowess, would always reach for a jar of Montreal steak seasoning. The aroma alone – a symphony of pepper, garlic, and herbs – signaled that something special was about to happen. That familiar scent instantly transports me back to summer evenings filled with laughter, juicy steaks, and the comforting presence of family. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that captures the essence of that memory, a homemade version that rivals the original.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 10 servings
• Yield: About ½ cup
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion
• ½ tablespoon dehydrated garlic
• ½ tablespoon crushed red pepper
• ½ tablespoon dried thyme
• ½ tablespoon dried rosemary
• ½ tablespoon dried coriander

Equipment Needed

• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Airtight container or spice jar

Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of salt, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of dehydrated onion.

2. Add ½ tablespoon of dehydrated garlic, ½ tablespoon of crushed red pepper, ½ tablespoon of dried thyme, ½ tablespoon of dried rosemary, and ½ tablespoon of dried coriander to the bowl.

3. Thoroughly mix all ingredients together until evenly distributed.

4. Transfer the Montreal steak seasoning to an airtight container or spice jar for storage. Store in a cool, dry place.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Salt Selection: While the recipe calls for “salt,” consider using kosher salt or sea salt for a more nuanced flavor. Kosher salt’s larger crystals distribute flavor differently than table salt.

• Dehydrated Onion and Garlic: Ensure your dehydrated onion and garlic are fresh. Stale spices lose their potency and impact the final flavor. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider replacing them.

• Crushed Red Pepper Heat Level: The ½ tablespoon of crushed red pepper provides a gentle heat. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference. For a milder seasoning, reduce the amount slightly. For a spicier blend, increase it to ¾ or even a full tablespoon.

• Herb Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality dried herbs. The fresher the herbs, the more vibrant the seasoning will be. Check the expiration dates on your thyme and rosemary.

• Customization: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Some people add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or a touch of mustard powder for a tangy kick.

• Grinding for Texture: If you prefer a finer texture, you can lightly grind the finished seasoning in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle. However, traditionally, Montreal steak seasoning has a coarser texture.

• Blooming the Spices: For an even deeper flavor, lightly toast the spices in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two before mixing them together. Be careful not to burn them! Let them cool completely before proceeding.

• Make Ahead: This seasoning can be made well in advance and stored for several months. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This copycat McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning is incredibly versatile. Of course, it shines on steak, but don’t limit yourself!

• Serving Suggestions: Generously sprinkle it on steaks before grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. It’s also fantastic on burgers, chicken, pork, and fish. Try it on roasted vegetables like potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus. You can even add a pinch to soups and stews for extra depth of flavor. Toss with French fries or potato wedges before baking for a flavor boost.

• Storage: Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly stored, it will last for up to 6 months. Check for aroma and flavor degradation after this time. If the seasoning loses its potency, it’s time to make a fresh batch. Do not refrigerate.

Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 1 tsp)	% Daily Value*
Calories	3 kcal	0%
Total Fat	0 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	682 mg	29%
Total Carbohydrate	0.2 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	0 g	0%

• Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Low-Sodium Version: Reduce the amount of salt by half or use a low-sodium salt substitute.

• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

• Smoked Paprika: Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

• Mustard Powder: Add 1/4 teaspoon of mustard powder for a tangy kick.

• Garlic Powder instead of Dehydrated Garlic: While not ideal (dehydrated garlic flakes provide a better texture), garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch. Use the same amount (½ tablespoon).

• Fresh Herbs: While this recipe calls for dried herbs for shelf stability, you could experiment with finely chopping fresh herbs and dehydrating them yourself for an even more intense flavor. Keep in mind the moisture content needs to be completely removed for proper storage.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why use dehydrated onion and garlic instead of fresh?
A: Dehydrated onion and garlic provide a concentrated flavor and a longer shelf life in this dry seasoning blend. Fresh ingredients would introduce moisture and cause the seasoning to clump and spoil.

Q: Can I use this seasoning on other meats besides steak?
A: Absolutely! This seasoning is delicious on chicken, pork, fish, and even tofu. It adds a savory and flavorful crust to anything you grill or pan-sear.

Q: How long does this seasoning last?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, this seasoning will last for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I adjust the amount of salt in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can adjust the salt to your liking. Start with a slightly smaller amount and taste, adding more until you reach your desired level of saltiness.

Q: Can I use this seasoning in a marinade?
A: Yes, you can use this seasoning in a marinade. Combine it with oil, vinegar, or soy sauce to create a flavorful marinade for meats or vegetables. Just be mindful of the salt content, as marinades can sometimes become too salty.

Final Thoughts

This copycat Montreal steak seasoning is more than just a spice blend; it’s a way to elevate your everyday cooking and create memorable meals. It’s incredibly simple to make, and the flavor is far superior to store-bought versions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and let me know what you think! Perhaps pair it with a perfectly grilled steak and a side of roasted asparagus for a truly satisfying meal. Happy cooking!