Chili-Rubbed Steak Recipe

Craving a steak dinner that packs a punch? Look no further! Today, I’m sharing my recipe for a chili-rubbed steak guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. I’ve been experimenting with different steak rubs lately, and this one has quickly become a family favorite. The perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience.

What Is Chili-Rubbed Steak?

Chili-rubbed steak is a dish seasoned with chili powder and other spices before cooking.

Ingredients:

Steak:

  • 2 ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • Olive oil (optional, for brushing)

Chili Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat level)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chili Rub: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well to create a uniform spice blend.

Prepare The Steak:

  • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes a good sear.
  • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over both sides of the steaks and rub it in (optional). This helps the spices adhere and can also aid in creating a nice crust during cooking.

Apply the Chili Rub: Generously sprinkle the chili rub mixture over both sides of each steak. Use your hands to press the rub into the meat, ensuring an even coating. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Cooking The Steak:

Grilling:
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your preferred doneness level.
Pan-Searing:
  • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a bit of oil to the pan.
  • Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Reduce the heat if the crust darkens too quickly.
Broiling:
  • Preheat the broiler and place the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
  • Place the steaks on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Resting: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Serving: Slice the steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

  • Choosing the Steak: Ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip are excellent choices for this recipe due to their rich flavor and good fat content, which complements the spicy rub.
  • Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder rub, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For a smokier flavor, add more smoked paprika.
  • Resting the Steak: Resting is crucial to retain the juices. Cut the steak too soon, and the juices will run out, leaving the meat dry.

Cooking Temperature:

Use A Meat Thermometer To Check The Internal Temperature For Accurate Doneness:
  • Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
  • Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
  • Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
  • Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
  • Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above

Serving Suggestions: Complement the chili-rubbed steak with a cool and creamy sauce, such as a cilantro-lime crema or avocado salsa, to balance the spice.

What To Serve With

Classic Pairings:

  • Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: The smoky char of grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers complements the spicy steak perfectly.
  • Baked Potato: A classic side that can handle the bold flavors of the steak. Top it with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits for extra indulgence.
  • Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting choice. Add cheese, chives, or bacon for extra flavour.

Elevated Options:

  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: Drizzled with lime juice and dusted with chilli powder, this is a fresh and flavorful side.
  • Creamy Spinach: A rich and creamy spinach side dish balances the heat of the steak.
  • Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips roasted with herbs and olive oil offer a hearty and satisfying accompaniment.

Bold Flavors:

  • Black Bean and Corn Salsa: A zesty and refreshing salsa adds a burst of flavor to the meal.
  • Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, and red onion create a light and healthy side dish.
  • Grilled Chimichurri: This vibrant sauce, made with fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar, is a perfect match for the chili-rubbed steak.

Health Benefits

Rich In Protein

Steak is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system. A typical serving of steak provides a significant amount of protein, which helps in satiety and maintaining a balanced diet.

Nutrient-Dense

  • Iron: Important for the formation of red blood cells and transporting oxygen throughout the body. The iron found in red meat is heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron found in plant-based foods.
  • Zinc: Supports immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
  • Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function, DNA production, and the formation of red blood cells.
  • Other B Vitamins: Including B6, niacin, and riboflavin, which are important for energy metabolism and overall health.

Chili Powder And Spices

Capsaicin

  • Metabolism Boost: Capsaicin can increase metabolism and help burn calories, which may aid in weight management.
  • Anti-inflammatory Properties: Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation.
  • Pain Relief: Topical applications of capsaicin are often used for pain relief, particularly in conditions like arthritis.

Antioxidants

  • Spices like paprika and cumin: These spices are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect the body’s cells from damage. Antioxidants are linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Healthy Fats

Depending on the cut of steak, it can provide a source of healthy fats, particularly if opting for grass-fed beef. Grass-fed beef tends to have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to grain-fed beef. Omega-3 fatty acids benefit heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.

Satiety And Weight Management

High-protein meals, like chili-rubbed steak, can help increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. This can be beneficial for weight management and preventing overeating.

Mood And Cognitive Benefits

The B vitamins and iron in steak are essential for cognitive function and mental health. Adequate levels of these nutrients are important for maintaining energy levels, concentration, and mood stability.

Potential Benefits From Spices

  • Garlic Powder: Contains compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, along with cardiovascular benefits.
  • Cumin: Known for aiding digestion and possessing antimicrobial properties.

Final Thoughts

Your guide to creating an unforgettable chili-rubbed steak dinner. With its perfect blend of heat, smokiness, and savory goodness, this dish will impress your guests or elevate your weeknight meal. Remember, quality meat and proper cooking are critical to a great steak. Experiment with different cuts of beef, and be bold and adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

More Meat Recipes:

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