Save This bold seasoning blend captures the essence of classic Montreal deli-style preparation. The combination coarsely ground black pepper, kosher salt, and aromatic spices like coriander and dill seeds creates an authentic flavor profile that transforms ordinary cuts into restaurant-quality steaks. Simply mix all ingredients, store in an airtight container, and sprinkle generously before grilling or cooking.
The first time I visited Montreal, I ordered steak at this tiny deli where the waiter just shrugged when I asked what made it special. One bite in, I understood completely. That crusty, peppery, impossibly aromatic coating haunts you in the best way possible. It took me years of experiments in my own kitchen to crack the code. Now my spice cabinet is never without a jar of this magic blend.
Last summer, my neighbor smelled this seasoning on my grill and wandered over with a confused look. I gave him a small jar of my stash. Now he texts me every time he runs low, which honestly happens more often than I expected. There is something incredibly satisfying about sharing a recipe that makes people feel like they have discovered a secret weapon.
Ingredients
- Kosher salt: The coarse texture creates that perfect crusty exterior that makes restaurant steaks so distinctive
- Coarsely ground black pepper: Freshly cracked gives you those little spicy bursts in every bite
- Paprika: Sweet adds subtle depth while smoked brings a campfire quality that works beautifully with beef
- Garlic powder: Distributes evenly throughout the blend better than fresh garlic would
- Onion powder: Provides a savory backbone that makes everything taste more complete
- Coriander seeds, crushed: The citrusy floral notes are what make Montreal seasoning uniquely complex
- Dill seeds, crushed: This is the secret ingredient most people do not expect but definitely notice
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adjust based on your heat tolerance because this blend has some kick
- Dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal quality that rounds out all the bold spices
- Dried rosemary, crushed: Piney and aromatic, it complements the coriander beautifully
Instructions
- Mix your blend:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed
- Store properly:
- Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container or spice jar and keep it somewhere cool and dry
- Apply generously:
- Press the seasoning firmly onto both sides of your meat, letting it adhere well before cooking
- Let it rest:
- Allow seasoned proteins to sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature for the best flavor penetration
Save I started keeping a small shaker of this by my grill permanently. Friends have stopped asking what I put on my steaks and started asking for jars of it as gifts. That is how you know a recipe has become part of your life instead of just something you make.
Making It Your Own
Once you have made this a few times, you will start noticing how each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor. Sometimes I add extra coriander when I want more citrus notes. Other times I dial back the red pepper for my kids. The beauty is having a template that adapts to whatever mood you are in.
Beyond The Steak
This seasoning has completely changed how I approach roasted vegetables. Potatoes, cauliflower, even carrots get transformed into something crave-worthy. My husband actually asks for roasted Brussels sprouts now, which still feels like a minor miracle. I have started keeping a separate jar just for vegetables.
The Storage Secret
Proper storage keeps this blend vibrant for months, but I have noticed the flavor starts fading after about three months. That is actually fine because it is so easy to make fresh.
- Write the date on your jar so you know when to make a fresh batch
- Keep it away from direct sunlight and your stove where heat can damage the spices
- Make a double batch if you are giving it as gifts because it will disappear faster than you expect
Save Every time I open my spice cabinet and catch that coriander-dill aroma, I am back in that Montreal deli wondering how something so simple could taste so extraordinary. Some recipes are just worth keeping close.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes Montreal seasoning different?
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The signature combination of coarsely ground black pepper, coriander seeds, and dill seeds creates the distinctive Montreal deli flavor profile that sets it apart from other steak seasonings.
- → How long does this seasoning blend last?
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Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, this seasoning blend maintains optimal flavor for up to 6 months.
- → Can I adjust the heat level?
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Absolutely. Simply increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to customize the spice level to your preference.
- → What else can I use this seasoning on?
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Beyond steaks, this versatile blend works beautifully on burgers, chicken, pork, tofu, and roasted potatoes for added depth and flavor.
- → Do I need to crush the seeds?
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Lightly crushing coriander and dill seeds releases their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor. A mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon works well.
