Are you ready to elevate your steak game? Forget those boring bottled sauces; we're diving into the rich, savory world of homemade Montreal steak sauce! This recipe is incredibly easy, surprisingly quick, and delivers an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more. Perfect for grilling season or a cozy weeknight dinner, this homemade sauce is a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought options, making it a fantastic addition to your easy recipes collection. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup (look for a high-quality option for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne pepper for heat.
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Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Montreal Steak Sauce:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Using good-quality ketchup and Worcestershire sauce makes a significant difference in the final flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooking the sauce can make it too thick. Aim for a consistency that's slightly thicker than ketchup.
- Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. A dash of liquid smoke or a pinch of dried thyme can add extra depth of flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Montreal Steak Sauce: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory Montreal Steak Sauce: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Herb-Infused Montreal Steak Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme during the last few minutes of simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 0-1g
This homemade Montreal steak sauce is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and healthy meals. It’s perfect for steak, of course, but also works wonderfully as a marinade, a dipping sauce for chicken, or even as a glaze for roasted vegetables. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! Happy cooking!