What’s in Montreal Seasoning? A Spicy Deep Dive (with Tasty Tips!) 🌶️🧂

What’s in Montreal Seasoning? Unraveling the Flavor Bomb of the Spice World

If you’ve ever grilled meat and suddenly smelled a mysterious, mouthwatering aroma wafting from your neighbor’s backyard, there’s a solid chance they were using Montreal seasoning. But what exactly is this magical mix that makes even the most basic steak taste like it came from a Michelin-starred restaurant?

Table of Contents

• What Exactly Is Montreal Seasoning?
• The Core Ingredients Behind the Magic
• How to Make Your Own Montreal Seasoning at Home
• Top 5 Ways to Use Montreal Seasoning Like a Pro
• Montreal vs. Other Rubs: What Sets It Apart?
• Pro Tips & Life Hacks for Using This Spice Mix
• Conclusion

What Exactly Is Montreal Seasoning?

Much like its name suggests, Montreal seasoning has roots in—surprise!—Metro polis MTL, otherwise known as Montreal, Canada. Originally created by a Jewish deli owner named Myron Sharabi back in the 1940s, it was crafted to season smoked meats, particularly brisket.

Over time, this blend gained cult-like status, especially among grillers and BBQ enthusiasts who couldn’t get enough of its bold, aromatic flavor. Think of it as Canada’s spicy gift to carnivores around the world.

The Core Ingredients Behind the Magic

The beauty of Montreal seasoning lies in its simplicity—and the balance of flavors. While recipes can vary slightly, here’s a typical breakdown:

Ingredient	Description	Flavor Contribution
Coarse Salt	Salt crystals that enhance overall flavor	Balances spices, enhances savoriness
Black Pepper	Freshly ground pepper adds bite	Provides heat and earthiness
Garlic Powder	Dehydrated garlic granules	Adds depth and savory umami
Mustard Seeds	Whole or crushed mustard seeds	Offers tangy sharpness and texture
Dill	Dried dill weed	Herbaceous brightness
Paprika	Mild red pepper powder	Colorful base note with subtle sweetness
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes	Optional for heat lovers	Kicks things up a notch

How to Make Your Own Montreal Seasoning at Home

Want to whip up a batch yourself? Here’s an easy recipe to start with:

DIY Montreal Seasoning Recipe

• 2 tbsp coarse salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp dried mustard
• 1 tbsp dill weed
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix everything together in a bowl until well combined. Store in an airtight container and use within 6 months for best flavor.

Top 5 Ways to Use Montreal Seasoning Like a Pro

1. On Grilled Meats: Steaks, ribs, chicken breasts—just rub generously before grilling.
2. In Smoked Brisket: The original use case still works perfectly today.
3. With Fries or Roasted Veggies: Sprinkle over baked potatoes or roasted cauliflower for a savory twist.
4. As a Popcorn Upgrade: Yes, really. For a savory snack fix, toss air-popped popcorn with melted butter and a dash of this mix.
5. In Marinades: Blend with olive oil, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce for a powerful marinade base.

Montreal vs. Other Rubs: What Sets It Apart?

To better understand how special Montreal seasoning is, let’s compare it with other popular spice blends:

Rub Type	Main Flavor Notes	Best Used On	Heat Level
Montreal Seasoning	Garlicky, peppery, herby, slightly tangy	Beef, pork, fries, popcorn	Moderate
Texas Style BBQ Rub	Peppery, smoky, sweet paprika	Brisket, ribs	Mild to moderate
Cajun Seasoning	Spicy, zesty, tomatoey	Seafood, chicken, gumbo	High
Jerk Seasoning	Fiery, allspice-forward, citrusy	Chicken, goat, seafood	Very high
Italian Herb Mix	Earthy, floral, sweet	Pasta, bread, tomato dishes	Mild

Pro Tips & Life Hacks for Using This Spice Mix

• Don’t Overdo It: A little goes a long way, especially with the salt content. Start with a light hand and adjust to taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Buy whole spices like mustard seeds and grind them fresh for maximum potency.
• Store Smart: Keep your homemade mix in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Glass jars work best.
• Pair with Vinegar-Based Sauces: The tanginess balances out the richness of meats beautifully.
• Try It Cold: Add a pinch to tuna salad or deviled eggs for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

Montreal seasoning isn’t just another spice mix—it’s a culinary icon that brings bold, balanced, and addictive flavor to any dish you throw it on. Whether you're grilling a juicy ribeye or upgrading your popcorn game, this versatile blend deserves a permanent spot on your spice rack.

So go ahead, mix up a batch, and give your meals the “je ne sais quoi” they’ve been missing. And remember: when in doubt, add more dill.