Montreal Seasoning Recipe: Montreal Seasoning, also known as Montreal Steak Spice, is a classic spice blend with bold, savory, and slightly spicy notes that originated in the heart of Canada. It’s a staple in many kitchens because it instantly elevates the flavor of grilled meats, vegetables, and even eggs. Unlike simple salt and pepper, this seasoning brings together a powerful mix of garlic, coriander, black pepper, and other aromatic spices to create a deep and irresistible flavor profile.
The story of Montreal Seasoning begins with Jewish delis in Montreal, where it was first used as a dry rub for smoked meats. Over time, the seasoning gained massive popularity among grill masters and home cooks, who started using it on steaks, burgers, and just about everything else. Its unique balance of saltiness, spice, and aromatic depth makes it one of the most versatile spice blends you can make at home.
So, if you love that punch of flavor you get from a perfectly seasoned steak or grilled chicken, you’ll want to learn how to make your own Montreal Seasoning. It’s simple, cost-effective, and tastes even better than store-bought versions. Plus, making it yourself gives you control over the salt content and freshness of the spices—something that commercial blends often lack.
What Makes Montreal Seasoning Unique?
What sets Montreal Seasoning apart from other blends is its coarse texture and bold mix of ingredients. It’s not just another “steak rub” — it’s a full-bodied seasoning that perfectly balances salty, smoky, and slightly citrusy flavors. The coarse salt and cracked peppercorns provide a crunchy crust when seared, locking in juices and flavor in meats. Garlic and onion add depth, while coriander and dill give it a fresh and slightly tangy aroma.
Another unique feature is its adaptability. While it’s famous as a steak seasoning, it’s also fantastic on roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, grilled mushrooms, and even tofu. Think of it as your “all-purpose flavor booster” that can transform any bland dish into a flavorful masterpiece.
If you’ve ever dined in a steakhouse and wondered what makes the meat so flavorful and aromatic, chances are Montreal Seasoning played a big role. Its secret lies in the balance — no single spice dominates, yet every component contributes to the rich overall taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Montreal Seasoning
To make your own homemade Montreal Seasoning, you’ll only need a handful of pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s flexible — you can tweak it to your liking, making it saltier, spicier, or milder depending on your preference.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coarse Kosher Salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Cracked Black Pepper | 2 tablespoons |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Seeds (crushed) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Dill | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika (sweet or smoked) | 1 teaspoon |
Optional Additions:
- Mustard seeds: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Brown sugar: For a hint of sweetness to balance the saltiness.
- Crushed fennel seeds: Adds a mild licorice note.
Each ingredient contributes something essential to the overall blend. The cracked pepper and salt create texture, the garlic and onion deliver savory depth, and the coriander and dill bring freshness. Feel free to experiment with the quantities — this is your seasoning, after all!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Montreal Seasoning
Making this seasoning at home is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps to craft your perfect blend.
Step 1 – Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all the spices listed above. Using freshly cracked peppercorns and coarse salt is crucial for that authentic texture and flavor. Avoid fine powders, as they can make the blend too uniform and less flavorful. If you have whole coriander seeds, crush them lightly using a mortar and pestle or the bottom of a spoon.
Step 2 – Measure and Mix the Spices
In a medium-sized bowl, measure out each spice according to the recipe. Mix them gently using a spoon or whisk until they are evenly distributed. This ensures that each sprinkle of seasoning delivers a perfect balance of all the flavors.
Step 3 – Adjust the Texture
Montreal Seasoning should have a slightly coarse texture. If your spices are too fine, try adding a little more crushed pepper or salt. You can pulse the mixture once or twice in a spice grinder, but don’t overdo it—you want that crunchy, rustic feel.
Step 4 – Store Properly for Freshness
Transfer the seasoning blend into an airtight glass jar or spice container. Label it and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When stored properly, it can stay fresh for up to 6 months. The fresher your spices, the more vibrant and flavorful your seasoning will be.
How to Use Montreal Seasoning in Your Cooking
Montreal Seasoning is one of those magical spice blends that can make almost anything taste better. Its versatility goes far beyond just steak—it’s equally delicious on vegetables, chicken, seafood, and even eggs. Once you have your homemade batch ready, there are countless ways to use it to enhance your everyday meals.
As a Meat Rub
The most classic way to use Montreal Seasoning is as a dry rub for meats, especially beef. Generously coat steaks, ribs, or burgers with the seasoning before grilling or pan-searing. The coarse salt and cracked pepper form a flavorful crust that locks in the meat’s natural juices, giving you a perfect sear every time.
- Tip: For a more intense flavor, rub the seasoning into your meat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight in the refrigerator—before cooking.
- Perfect Pairings: Ribeye, sirloin, brisket, or lamb chops.
For Vegetables and Potatoes
If you’ve never tried Montreal Seasoning on vegetables, you’re missing out. Toss potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous sprinkle of seasoning before roasting or grilling. The blend gives veggies a smoky, garlicky flavor that’s incredibly addictive.
- Try this: Sprinkle it on baked potatoes or French fries instead of plain salt for a restaurant-worthy upgrade.
In Marinades and Sauces
Montreal Seasoning can also be used to create mouthwatering marinades. Simply combine 2 tablespoons of the seasoning with olive oil, lemon juice, and a bit of soy sauce for a flavorful marinade that pairs beautifully with chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also mix it into mayonnaise or sour cream to make a quick dipping sauce for fries or grilled veggies.
In short, once you start using Montreal Seasoning, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain salt and pepper. It adds a gourmet touch to even the simplest meals.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Flavor
Creating the perfect Montreal Seasoning isn’t just about mixing spices—it’s about balance and freshness. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your seasoning tastes amazing every single time:
Balancing the Salt and Pepper
One of the most common mistakes when making spice blends is getting the salt ratio wrong. Montreal Seasoning should be salty enough to enhance the flavor of meat, but not so salty that it overpowers other ingredients. If you’re using it for general cooking rather than just steaks, consider reducing the salt slightly.
Use Fresh Spices
Always use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor. Over time, ground spices lose their potency. If your garlic powder smells faint or your pepper looks dull, it’s time to replace them. Freshly cracked peppercorns and crushed coriander seeds make a world of difference.
Customize It
One of the biggest perks of making your seasoning at home is customization. Love a bit of heat? Add extra red pepper flakes. Prefer a smoky kick? Use smoked paprika instead of sweet. If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, a pinch of brown sugar helps balance the saltiness and enhances caramelization on grilled meats.
Mix in Small Batches
While it’s tempting to make a large batch, it’s best to mix only what you’ll use within 3–6 months. This ensures your seasoning remains vibrant and aromatic. Plus, you can tweak the next batch to match your evolving tastes.
With these simple tweaks, you’ll have a Montreal Seasoning blend that’s uniquely yours—perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor.
Storing and Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to preserving the aroma and potency of your homemade Montreal Seasoning. Spices can easily lose their flavor if exposed to air, light, or moisture. Here’s how to keep your seasoning fresh and flavorful for months:
Best Containers for Storage
Use airtight glass jars or spice containers with tight-fitting lids. Mason jars or small glass spice bottles are ideal. Avoid plastic containers, as they can absorb odors and allow air to seep in over time. If you want to get fancy, use dark glass jars to protect your seasoning from light.
Ideal Storage Conditions
Store your seasoning in a cool, dry place—away from direct sunlight and humidity. A pantry or cupboard works perfectly. Never keep your spices near the stove, as the heat and steam can cause clumping and shorten their shelf life.
How Long Does It Last?
Homemade Montreal Seasoning typically lasts for up to 6 months if stored properly. Over time, you might notice a slight fading in color or aroma—that’s your cue to make a fresh batch. The good news? Making a new one takes less than 10 minutes!
Pro Tip: Label your jar with the date you made it. That way, you’ll always know when it’s time to refresh your stock.
Health Benefits of Homemade Seasonings
When you make your own Montreal Seasoning, you’re not just creating a flavorful blend—you’re making a healthier alternative to store-bought mixes. Commercial seasonings often contain preservatives, anti-caking agents, and excessive sodium. By crafting it at home, you know exactly what goes into your blend.
Control Over Ingredients
You have complete control over the salt content and spice balance. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can easily cut the salt in half without sacrificing flavor. Want it spicier or smokier? You decide. Homemade seasoning allows you to tailor every element to your dietary preferences.
No Additives or Preservatives
Unlike pre-packaged versions, your homemade Montreal Seasoning contains no artificial flavors, fillers, or MSG. You’re using pure, natural ingredients, which means your food tastes cleaner and more authentic. This is especially great for those who prefer clean eating or follow specific diets like keto or paleo.
Added Nutritional Benefits
Many spices in Montreal Seasoning offer health benefits. Garlic and onion powder can support immune health, black pepper aids digestion, and coriander has anti-inflammatory properties. While seasoning alone won’t replace a healthy diet, it’s a flavorful way to boost your meals with natural goodness.
Making your own spice blends isn’t just about taste—it’s about taking charge of what goes into your food and making smarter, healthier choices.
Montreal Seasoning vs. Other Spice Blends
Many people confuse Montreal Seasoning with other spice mixes like steak seasoning or BBQ rubs. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are key differences in ingredients, flavor profiles, and uses. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right blend for your next meal—or even combine them for a custom flavor explosion.
Montreal Seasoning vs. Steak Seasoning
Although both are used for enhancing meats, particularly beef, Montreal Seasoning tends to have a more robust and aromatic profile. It’s characterized by coarse textures—large grains of salt and cracked pepper—alongside garlic, coriander, and dill. Traditional steak seasonings, on the other hand, often have a finer grind and may include brown sugar or herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Montreal Seasoning:
- Bold, garlicky, and pepper-forward.
- Great for dry rubs and grilled meats.
- Crunchy texture for that steakhouse-style crust.
Steak Seasoning:
- Often sweeter and more herby.
- Works well with both pan-seared and oven-roasted meats.
- Finer grind, easier to blend into marinades.
In short, if you want that smoky, punchy steak flavor, go for Montreal. If you want a subtler, herb-forward finish, choose a traditional steak seasoning.
Montreal Seasoning vs. BBQ Rubs
BBQ rubs are all about sweetness and smokiness. They commonly include brown sugar, paprika, cumin, and sometimes chili powder. Montreal Seasoning, however, skips the sugar and focuses on savory, peppery notes with hints of citrus from coriander.
Montreal Seasoning: Ideal for high-heat grilling and searing, where a flavorful crust forms.
BBQ Rubs: Designed for low-and-slow cooking, creating caramelized, sticky bark.
You can even mix the two! Try combining equal parts of Montreal Seasoning and your favorite BBQ rub to create a smoky-sweet hybrid perfect for ribs or grilled chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Montreal Seasoning is easy to make, a few small missteps can throw off its balance. Here’s how to avoid the most common pitfalls so your seasoning tastes perfect every time.
Overpowering with Salt
Because coarse salt makes up a big part of this blend, it’s easy to go overboard. Remember that salt amplifies flavor but can quickly overwhelm if used excessively. If you plan to use the seasoning frequently, consider cutting the salt by one-third. You can always add more later but can’t take it out once mixed.
Not Using Fresh Spices
Old or stale spices can completely dull your blend. If your garlic powder has been sitting in the cabinet for two years, it won’t pack much punch. Always use fresh, aromatic spices—your nose can tell the difference. To test freshness, rub a pinch between your fingers; if the scent is weak, it’s time to replace it.
Grinding Too Fine
The texture of Montreal Seasoning is what makes it special. Avoid grinding it too finely—otherwise, it will lose its distinctive crunch. That coarse blend helps create the crusty sear on steaks that Montreal seasoning is famous for.
Ignoring Storage Conditions
Leaving your seasoning jar open or storing it near the stove might seem convenient, but heat and humidity will ruin the spices quickly. Always seal it tightly and store in a cool, dark pantry. A little care goes a long way in preserving freshness.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures that your homemade blend maintains its punchy, mouthwatering flavor for months.
Variations of Montreal Seasoning
One of the best things about making your own spice blends is that you can tweak them endlessly. Montreal Seasoning has several variations that cater to different tastes—whether you love extra heat, a smoky twist, or even a salt-free version.
Smoky Montreal Blend
If you enjoy the deep, charred flavor of barbecue, the Smoky Montreal Blend is for you. Replace the regular paprika with smoked paprika and add a pinch of chipotle powder. The result is a warm, smoky seasoning that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or roasted vegetables.
Tip: This variation also works wonders as a finishing sprinkle on mac and cheese or popcorn!
Spicy Montreal Version
For heat lovers, turn up the spice level by doubling the crushed red pepper flakes and adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. This Spicy Montreal Seasoning delivers a fiery kick that’s perfect for shrimp, chicken wings, or even spicy fries.
If you want to balance the heat, you can toss in a little brown sugar—it rounds out the spice and adds a subtle caramelized finish when grilled.
Low-Sodium Montreal Seasoning
If you’re watching your salt intake, simply reduce the salt by half or substitute part of it with a salt-free seasoning mix. The flavor will still be bold and delicious, especially if you keep the other spices fresh and balanced.
Bonus Variation: Add dried lemon zest for a zesty lift—great for seafood dishes or light summer salads.
Customizing your Montreal Seasoning lets you experiment and create blends that fit your unique palate and cooking style.
FAQs about Montreal Seasoning Recipe
1. Can I use Montreal Seasoning on foods other than meat?
Absolutely! It’s fantastic on roasted vegetables, scrambled eggs, tofu, baked potatoes, and even popcorn. Its versatility is what makes it such a pantry favorite.
2. Is Montreal Seasoning spicy?
By default, it’s mildly spicy due to the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper. However, you can adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the pepper content.
3. How long can I store homemade Montreal Seasoning?
When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh for up to 6 months. Always label your jar with the preparation date.
4. Can I make a salt-free version?
Yes! Simply omit or reduce the salt and increase the amount of herbs and spices. The flavor will remain rich and aromatic without being overly salty.
5. What’s the best way to use it on steak?
Rub the seasoning generously on both sides of your steak, then let it sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate and form a beautiful crust when seared.
Conclusion
Montreal Seasoning is a bold, aromatic blend that can instantly elevate your cooking. With its rich mix of garlic, coriander, black pepper, and dill, it brings a signature steakhouse flavor to your home kitchen. The best part? You can make it in minutes, tweak it to your taste, and use it in countless dishes—from juicy grilled steaks to crispy roasted veggies.
By creating your own blend, you’re not only saving money but also ensuring that your food is free from unnecessary additives and preservatives. Whether you stick to the traditional version or explore smoky or spicy variations, Montreal Seasoning is sure to become your new go-to spice mix.
So, grab your spices, mix up a batch, and get ready to transform your everyday meals into gourmet creations.
