What is Montreal Spice? Ingredients, Uses, and Authentic Recipes

Table of Contents

• What is Montreal Spice?
• Understanding the Flavor Profile
• How to Use Montreal Spice in Cooking
• The Ultimate Buying Guide for Montreal Spice
• Creative Recipes with Montreal Spice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

What is Montreal Spice?

Montreal spice, also known as Montreal steak seasoning, is a savory spice blend originating from Montreal, Canada. Traditionally used to season smoked meat sandwiches and steaks in local delis, this blend features coarse black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and sometimes cayenne pepper. Unlike generic steak rubs, Montreal spice has a distinctive coarse texture and balanced savory profile with prominent garlic and pepper notes.

This spice blend has gained global popularity for its versatility, enhancing everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. Its unique flavor comes from high-quality ingredients and careful proportioning, making it a staple in professional kitchens and home cooking alike.

Understanding the Flavor Profile

Montreal spice delivers a complex yet balanced taste through its core ingredients:

• Coarse black pepper: Provides sharp heat and texture
• Coriander: Adds citrusy, floral notes (key differentiator from other blends)
• Garlic powder: Creates savory depth
• Paprika: Contributes sweet smokiness
• Onion powder: Enhances umami and sweetness
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds adjustable heat level

This combination creates a versatile seasoning that works well with both mild and bold dishes. The coarse texture ensures even distribution and prevents clumping during cooking.

How to Use Montreal Spice in Cooking

Montreal spice’s versatility makes it suitable for numerous cooking applications:

1. Season Meats Before Grilling

Rub generously on steaks, chicken, or pork 30 minutes before cooking. The coarse texture creates a flavorful crust when seared. For best results, use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of meat.

2. Enhance Roasted Vegetables

Toss vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and Montreal spice before roasting. The spices caramelize beautifully at high heat, creating crispy edges.

3. Elevate Sauces and Dips

Add 1/2 teaspoon to mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt for instant flavor. Perfect for dipping sauces or sandwich spreads.

4. Season Eggs and Breakfast Dishes

Sprinkle lightly over scrambled eggs, omelets, or avocado toast. Use sparingly as the flavor intensifies with heat.

5. Create Dry Rubs for Smoking

Combine with brown sugar for a sweet-and-spicy rub for ribs or brisket. The coriander and garlic complement slow-cooked meats perfectly.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Montreal Spice

When selecting Montreal spice, consider these key factors:

1. Authentic Ingredients

True Montreal spice must contain coriander and coarse black pepper as primary ingredients. Avoid blends with excessive fillers like salt or MSG. Check ingredient lists for natural spices only.

2. Texture Matters

Authentic blends have coarse, visible pepper crystals. Fine powders indicate lower quality or imitation products.

3. Brand Reputation

Look for Montreal-based producers like Schwartz or McCormick’s Montreal Steak Seasoning. Specialty spice shops often carry authentic versions imported from Canada.

4. Homemade Option

Create your own blend with this authentic recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Coarse black pepper	1/2 cup	Essential for texture
Coriander seeds	1/4 cup	Grind before mixing
Garlic powder	1/4 cup	Use high-quality powder
Paprika	1/4 cup	Smoked paprika recommended
Onion powder	2 tablespoons	Optional but traditional
Cayenne pepper	1 teaspoon	Adjust to taste

5. Storage Tips

Store in airtight containers away from light and heat. Homemade blends last 6-12 months; commercial products typically have 1-2 year shelf lives.

Creative Recipes with Montreal Spice

These recipes showcase Montreal spice’s versatility:

1. Authentic Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich

Rub brisket with Montreal spice and smoke for 12 hours. Slice thinly and serve on rye bread with mustard. This traditional preparation highlights the spice’s authentic use.

2. Crispy Montreal-Spiced Roasted Potatoes

Toss baby potatoes with olive oil and 2 tablespoons Montreal spice. Roast at 425°F for 35 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Montreal-Spiced Grilled Salmon

Season salmon fillets with Montreal spice and lemon zest. Grill for 8-10 minutes. The coriander complements the fish’s natural oils perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Montreal Spice

What is Montreal spice made of?

Authentic Montreal spice contains coarse black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Unlike generic steak rubs, it never contains salt as a primary ingredient. The coarse texture and coriander are key differentiators.

Is Montreal spice the same as Montreal steak spice?

Yes, Montreal spice and Montreal steak spice refer to the same blend. The "steak" designation comes from its traditional use in Montreal’s famous smoked meat sandwiches, but it’s equally effective on chicken, fish, and vegetables.

How is Montreal spice different from other spice blends?

Montreal spice stands out due to its coarse texture and prominent coriander and black pepper. Unlike sweet American-style rubs, it has minimal sugar and focuses on savory, peppery notes. The coriander provides a citrusy complexity absent in most steak seasonings.

Can I make Montreal spice without coriander?

While possible, omitting coriander creates a different flavor profile. Coriander is essential to authentic Montreal spice. If unavailable, substitute with 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin per tablespoon of coriander, but note this will alter the traditional taste.

How long does Montreal spice last?

When stored properly in an airtight container away from heat and light, homemade Montreal spice maintains peak flavor for 6-12 months. Commercial blends typically last 1-2 years. The spices won’t spoil but will gradually lose potency—replace when aroma becomes faint.

Where can I buy authentic Montreal spice?

Authentic Montreal spice is available at Canadian grocery stores, specialty spice shops, and online retailers like Amazon. Look for brands like Schwartz Montreal Smoked Meat Seasoning or McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning. For the most authentic experience, seek products made in Montreal by Canadian producers.

Conclusion

Montreal spice is more than just a seasoning—it’s a culinary tradition that originated in Montreal’s smoked meat delis. Its distinctive blend of coarse black pepper, coriander, and garlic creates a savory, versatile flavor that elevates everything from steaks to roasted vegetables.

Whether you buy a trusted commercial brand or make your own using authentic ingredients, Montreal spice offers a taste of Canadian culinary heritage. Experiment with different applications to discover how this simple blend can transform your everyday cooking.