Steak is one of the most popular and delicious dishes enjoyed by meat lovers all around the world. Whether you prefer it rare, medium, or well-done, a perfectly cooked steak is a culinary masterpiece that deserves to be treated with care. While the seasoning and marinade used during the cooking process play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the steak, there are also several toppings and sauces to consider after cooking that can take your steak to the next level.

One classic choice for topping a steak is compound butter. Combining softened butter with various herbs, spices, and flavorings, compound butter adds richness, depth, and a burst of flavor to your perfectly cooked steak. Whether you opt for a garlic and herb compound butter, a blue cheese and thyme butter, or a spicy chili and lime butter, spreading a slice or two on top of your hot steak will elevate the taste and leave you wanting more.

Another fantastic option to consider is sauteed mushrooms and onions. Sliced mushrooms and onions sauteed in butter or olive oil provide a savory and caramelized topping that pairs beautifully with steak. The earthiness of the mushrooms, combined with the sweetness of the onions, adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures to every bite. Whether you prefer button mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, or a mix of various wild mushrooms, sauteed mushrooms and onions are a classic and timeless choice.

If you’re looking for a burst of freshness and acidity, chimichurri sauce is the way to go. This vibrant and zesty green sauce hails from Argentina and is typically made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and other seasonings. The tangy and herbaceous notes of chimichurri complement the richness of steak perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Drizzle this sauce generously over your cooked steak or serve it on the side, allowing each bite to be coated with an explosion of flavor.

Best seasonings for steak

Choosing the right seasonings for your steak can take it from good to great, enhancing its flavor and elevating the overall dining experience. Whether you prefer a simple seasoning or a more complex blend of flavors, there are several options to consider when deciding what to put on your steak after cooking.

1. Salt and Pepper

The classic combination of salt and pepper is a tried and true choice for seasoning steak. The salt helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat, while the pepper adds a subtle kick. To season your steak with salt and pepper, simply sprinkle both sides of the cooked steak with a generous amount of salt and a pinch of pepper. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

2. Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is an indulgent and flavorful seasoning that adds richness to your steak. To make garlic butter, soften a stick of butter and mix in minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Once your steak is cooked, generously top it with the garlic butter and allow it to melt over the steak. The garlic butter will add a deliciously creamy and garlicky flavor to your steak.

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These are just two examples of the best seasonings for steak, but the options are endless. Consider experimenting with different herbs and spices to create your own signature seasoning blend. Remember, the key is to enhance the natural flavors of the steak without overpowering them.

Garlic and herb butter

One delicious option for topping your steak after cooking is garlic and herb butter. This rich and flavorful butter adds a luxurious touch to any cut of steak.

To make garlic and herb butter, start by softening a stick of unsalted butter at room temperature. Once the butter is soft, finely chop a few cloves of garlic and mix them into the butter. Next, add in your choice of herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, finely chopped. You can also sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste.

Once the garlic and herbs are mixed into the butter, shape it into a log using plastic wrap or roll it into a ball. Place the butter in the fridge to firm up for at least an hour.

When your steak is cooked to perfection, remove the garlic and herb butter from the fridge and slice off a pat or two to place on top of the steak. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a deliciously rich and flavorful sauce.

You can also use garlic and herb butter as a marinade for your steak. Simply melt the butter and mix in the garlic and herbs. Coat your steak in the mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Ingredients Instructions
– 1 stick of unsalted butter 1. Soften butter at room temperature.
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 2. Mix garlic into butter
– Herbs (e.g. parsley, thyme, rosemary), finely chopped 3. Add herbs to butter
– Salt and pepper to taste 4. Sprinkle in salt and pepper

Béarnaise sauce

Béarnaise sauce is a classic French sauce that is often served with steak. It is a rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy flavors of a perfectly cooked steak. Made from a combination of egg yolks, butter, white wine vinegar, shallots, and herbs, Béarnaise sauce adds a delicious and tangy flavor to any steak.

To make Béarnaise sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over low heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and white wine vinegar until well combined. Slowly pour the melted butter into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Stir in finely chopped shallots and a mixture of fresh tarragon, parsley, and chervil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The key to a successful Béarnaise sauce is to whisk constantly and ensure that the heat is low to prevent the eggs from scrambling. It is important to be patient and take your time when making this sauce to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

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Béarnaise sauce can be served warm or at room temperature. It can be drizzled over a cooked steak, used as a dipping sauce, or even spread on a slice of crusty bread to complement the flavors of the steak.

Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, Béarnaise sauce is a versatile and delicious addition that elevates the overall taste and dining experience.

So, the next time you cook a steak, consider topping it with a luxurious Béarnaise sauce to impress your family and friends with the flavors of French cuisine.

Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a delicious and versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with steak. This vibrant green sauce originates from Argentina and is made with a combination of fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped – ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced – ¼ cup red wine vinegar
– ½ cup extra virgin olive oil – 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

2. Allow the chimichurri sauce to sit for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

3. Once your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.

Blue Cheese Compound Butter

If you want to take your steak to the next level, a delicious blue cheese compound butter is the way to go. This rich and creamy butter with chunks of tangy blue cheese adds a luxurious touch to any grilled steak.

To make the blue cheese compound butter, start by softening a stick of unsalted butter at room temperature. Once softened, crumble in a generous amount of blue cheese, approximately 1/4 cup. You can adjust the amount of blue cheese based on your preference.

Next, add some minced garlic and finely chopped fresh parsley to the butter. These ingredients will enhance the flavors and add a touch of freshness. A sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of salt will also help to balance the flavors.

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, using a spoon or a fork. Take care not to overmix, as the texture of the butter should still have some visible chunks of blue cheese throughout.

Once the blue cheese compound butter is ready, transfer it onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Roll the butter into a log shape and twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal it tightly. Refrigerate the butter for at least an hour, allowing it to firm up and develop its flavors.

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Serving Suggestions:

After cooking your steak to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before topping it with a slice of the blue cheese compound butter. As the butter melts onto the steak, it will create a mouthwatering sauce that complements the meat beautifully.

This blue cheese compound butter is also versatile and can be used in other dishes. Spread it on warm crusty bread or melt it over roasted vegetables for a delicious twist. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of flavor to your favorite recipes.

Storage:

Any leftover blue cheese compound butter can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage. Simply slice it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Thaw the butter in the fridge before using.

Ingredients: Instructions:
– 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 1. Soften the butter at room temperature.
– 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled 2. Crumble the blue cheese into the softened butter.
– 1 clove garlic, minced 3. Add minced garlic and finely chopped parsley.
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped 4. Sprinkle black pepper and a pinch of salt.
– Salt and black pepper, to taste 5. Mix well, making sure to keep some chunks of blue cheese.
6. Transfer onto plastic wrap and roll into a log shape.
7. Refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.

Q&A

What are some good condiments to put on steak after cooking?

Some good condiments to put on steak after cooking include chimichurri sauce, garlic butter sauce, mushroom sauce, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Should I put salt on my steak after cooking?

Yes, you can put salt on your steak after cooking to enhance the flavors. Sprinkle some salt on top and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Is it okay to put barbecue sauce on steak after cooking?

Yes, it is okay to put barbecue sauce on steak after cooking if you like the flavor. Brush some barbecue sauce on top of the steak and put it back under the broiler for a few minutes to let the sauce caramelize.

What vegetables can I put on top of my steak after cooking?

You can put sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, or roasted tomatoes on top of your steak after cooking. These vegetables will add extra flavor and texture to your dish.

Can I put blue cheese on my steak after cooking?

Yes, you can put blue cheese on your steak after cooking if you enjoy the combination of flavors. Crumble some blue cheese on top of the hot steak and let it melt slightly before serving.

What are some common toppings for steak after cooking?

Some common toppings for steak after cooking include melted butter, garlic butter, blue cheese crumbles, chimichurri sauce, or a simple pan sauce.