Sometimes, it can seem like quite the expedition to find the perfect steak flavor. We will go on a delicious journey to discover how to produce the Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning, which turns any ordinary steak into a flavorful masterpiece. So, gather your seasonings and get set for a unique gastronomic adventure.
The Lure of Lonestar Flavor
It’s all about robust tastes that pack a punch with every bite. Lonestar cuisine is drenched in history with spicy, savory notes that reflect the heart and soul of Texas. Our Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning draws from this rich heritage, offering a blend as spirited as a rodeo and as inviting as a warm Southern welcome.
What Makes the Outlaw Ribeye Special?
The Outlaw Ribeye is a statement rather than just another steak these days. This cut’s abundant marbling makes it the ideal backdrop for our seasoning. It is unique in that it enhances the ribeye’s inherent flavors without overpowering them. Consider it your reliable partner in crime, complementing each succulent bite with a harmonious blend of tastes that tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Ready to whip up some magic in the kitchen We will start with some essential ingredients.
Essential Ingredients
- Ground black pepper
1 TSP
- Smoked paprika
2 TBSP
- Coarse sea salt
1 TBSP
- Garlic powder
1 TBSP
- Onion powder
1 TBSP
- Ground cumin
2 TSP
- Dried oregano
1 TSP
- Cayenne pepper
½ TSP
Optional Add-ons
- Cinnamon
1 Pinch
- Dried thyme
½ TSP
- Brown sugar
1 TSP
- Ground mustard
¼ TSP
Measurements and Substitutes
- Smoked paprika can be substituted with regular paprika and a pinch of liquid smoke.
- For a sugar substitute, consider a splash of maple syrup or honey.
- If coarse sea salt isn’t available, kosher salt works just fine.
- No ground cumin? Try using a bit of curry powder.
Preparation Steps
Making your seasoning might sound like a chore, but it’s a breeze and oh-so-rewarding. We’ll mix our dry ingredients first to ensure they’re well combined, then tweak the flavors to suit your palate, and finally, talk about storing the mix so you can keep those Lonestar flavors close at hand for your next grilling adventure.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Take a medium-sized bowl, this will be your mixing arena. Add all the essential ingredients and any of the optional add-ons you’ve chosen. Using a whisk or a fork, stir vigorously to ensure everything is evenly distributed. You want each grain of salt to befriend the spices, so give it a good mix to create a harmonious blend.
Adjusting Spices to Taste
Take a small pinch of your mix and taste it.
- Too bland?
Sprinkle a bit more salt or pepper.
- Too tame?
Maybe a dash more cayenne or red pepper flakes will fire it up.
Storing the Seasoning
Once you’ve perfected your blend, it’s time to think about storage because let’s face it—you’ll want to have this magic mix on hand for impromptu barbecues and dinner parties.
- Airtight Container
A mason jar or any container with a tight seal works wonders for keeping the flavors intact.
- Cool, Dark Place
Store your seasoning in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Heat, light, and moisture are the enemies of freshness, so keeping your blend away from them will extend its shelf life and keep it tasting great for months.
Applying the Seasoning
Now that our Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning is ready, let’s talk about how to apply this wonderful concoction to get the most flavorful steak possible. It’s not just about throwing spices on meat; there is an art to seasoning that ensures every bite is as delectable as the last.
Techniques for Seasoning Ribeye
- Dry the steak
Before anything else, pat your steak dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear and can dilute the flavors.
- Generously apply the seasoning
Cover every inch of your steak with the seasoning mix. Use your hands to press the seasoning firmly into the meat to adhere better.
- Room temperature meat
Always let your steak come to room temperature before seasoning. This ensures that the spices will penetrate more deeply.
- Use oil wisely
Lightly brush your steak with olive oil before applying the dry rub. This helps the seasoning stick to the meat without causing it to clump.
Marination Time
The key to unlocking the full potential of your Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning is giving it enough time to get acquainted with the meat. For the best results, season your ribeye at least 40 minutes before cooking if leaving it at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator if you plan. This allows the salt to break down the proteins, tenderizing the meat, and letting the flavors seep in deeply.
Tips for Even Coating
- Massage the meat
Don’t just sprinkle the seasoning on. Rub it in with your hands, massaging the spices into every nook and cranny of the steak.
- Shake off the excess
After seasoning, give your steak a gentle shake. This removes loose spices that could burn during cooking.
- Let it rest
Once seasoned, let the steak sit undisturbed. This rest period helps the seasoning create a crust, adding a delightful texture to your cooked steak.
Cooking Tips
Now that your ribeye is expertly seasoned, it’s time to fire up the grill (or stove!) and cook it to perfection. Cooking steak isn’t just about heat; it’s about timing, temperature, and technique. Below, you’ll find tips on hitting the ideal cooking temperatures and testing for doneness to ensure your steak is not just good, but great—juicy on the inside with a satisfying crust on the outside.
Cooking Temperatures
- For Grilling
Preheat your grill to a high temperature, around 450-500°F (232-260°C). This high heat gives your steak a nice sear that locks in flavors.
- For Pan-searing
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want it hot enough that the steak sizzles as soon as it touches the pan.
- Oven finishing
If you prefer to start on the stove and finish in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). After searing the steak on the stove, transfer it to the oven to cook through evenly. The right temperature will depend on your cooking method and the thickness of steak.
Testing for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer
The most foolproof way to check if your steak is done is to use a meat thermometer. Here are the temperatures to look for:
120-125°F (49-52°C) for rare, 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium, and 150-155°F (65-68°C) for medium-well.
- The finger test
If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the finger test. Press the center of the steak; if it’s very soft and leaves an imprint, it’s rare. If it springs back quickly, it’s well done.
- Rest your steak
Always let your steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making every bite as flavorful as possible.
Variations of the Recipe
Here are some vegan alternatives for our plant-based friends and how to adjust the heat level to create both spicy and mild versions of this beloved seasoning.
Vegan Alternatives
- Portobello Mushrooms
Substitute steak with thick slices of Portobello mushrooms. They have a meaty texture that absorbs flavors well.
- Tofu or Tempeh
Use extra-firm tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed vegan option. Press and drain your tofu well before seasoning to enhance flavor absorption.
- Cauliflower Steaks
Slice whole cauliflower into thick steaks for a hearty, plant-friendly feast. Cauliflower’s neutral taste makes it a fantastic canvas for the Outlaw Seasoning.
- Jackfruit
Young green jackfruit has a texture similar to pulled pork when cooked and can be seasoned and barbecued for a delicious vegan treat.
Spicy and Mild Variants
Whether you like your steak to make you sweat or just to whisper of heat, adjusting the Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning to suit your spice tolerance is easy. For a fiery version, amp up the cayenne pepper, or add some crushed red pepper flakes or finely minced fresh habaneros to the mix.
If heat is not your thing, pull back on the cayenne and black pepper, and consider adding a bit of browner sugar or a pinch of smoked paprika. This way, you can customize the spice level without losing the integral flavors that make the seasoning so unique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this seasoning on other meats?
It works great on pork, chicken, and even lamb.
What’s the best way to store leftover seasoning?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Can the seasoning be used for grilling vegetables?
Yes, it’s excellent on vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus.
Is there a way to make the seasoning less spicy?
Reduce the cayenne pepper and black pepper, and add brown sugar or smoked paprika.
How long should I let the steak marinate with the seasoning?
Season for 40 minutes before cooking if at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
The journey through crafting the Lonestar Outlaw Ribeye Seasoning has been a delightful adventure into the heart of Texas flavors, catering to a wide array of tastes from the fiery explorer to the subtle savorer. This seasoning is not only versatile in its application to various meats and vegetables, ensuring that everyone at your table finds something to love, but also adaptable to different dietary needs including vegan alternatives.
Whether searing, grilling, or roasting, this blend will infuse your dishes with a bold, robust flavor that’s hard to resist. As you venture to try this seasoning, remember the key is in the preparation—allowing adequate marination time and cooking at the right temperatures.
Store any leftover seasoning properly, and you’ll have the secret weapon for delicious meals ready at your fingertips. Embrace the flexibility of this recipe by adjusting the heat level to match your preference, making every meal not just a dish, but an experience. Enjoy the flavors, explore variations, and most importantly, share the joy of a good meal with good company.
Mark Edward is a skilled chef with Five Years of experience as a Chef Master. He creates innovative dishes and shares his culinary expertise on his popular recipes website, inspiring home cooks with creative, flavorful, and easy-to-follow recipes.