Image by Davide Cantelli

Steak sauce

If there’s one condiment that strikes fear into the heart of every steak-lover, then it must be Steak Sauce. This mysterious, flavourful concoction has been tantalising our taste buds since the early 19th century, but its exact recipe remains a closely-guarded secret.

Steak sauce


So what is it about Steak Sauce that makes it so popular? Chances are that the combination of spices and herbs used to make the sauce is something that just can’t be replicated by any other condiment. Laced with garlic, Worcestershire sauce and often a handful of other ingredients specific to the brand, Steak Sauce adds an extra hint of savoury flavour to any cut of beef.

The wonderful thing about steak sauce is its versatility; whether you’re grilling, frying or roasting your steak, you can trust that a splodge of sauce will bring out the best in your beef. Steak sauce isn’t just limited to beef either; try it on chicken, pork or lamb - the possibilities are endless!

For those looking to explore further, the world of Steak Sauce is full of surprises. While traditional recipes tend to involve murky brown-coloured sauces, modern interpretations of the condiment come in all shapes, sizes and flavours. From tangy tomato and garlicky herb combinations to fruity berry sauces and even Thai-inspired varieties, there’s something for every steak aficionado.

Whether you’re a fan of the classic, the new-fangled or something in between, Steak Sauce is the perfect accompaniment for any slab of sizzling steak. Boasting subtle, nuanced flavours that will take any meat dish to the next level, it’s no surprise that this venerable condiment continues to reign supreme.

Steak sauce dishes

A selection of Steak sauce dishes.

Steak sauce



Steak sauce, the long-beloved accompaniment to a plate of succulent steak, is an undeniably essential condiment. While some may take it as a given when served alongside their favorite cut of beef, those in the know understand that the right steak sauce can elevate a dish to extraordinary heights.

As far as steak sauce pairings go, there are few dishes that can’t be improved by the addition of this aromatic topping. From classic all-American burgers to tender steak tacos, steak sauce serves as both a flavor enhancer and flavor collaborator, bringing out the best in whatever grub it’s added to. It can also serve as the perfect match for steaming vegetable sides such as grilled asparagus, imparting robustness and style to any meal.

To really get the most out of steak sauce, it’s important to understand its taste profile. Typically, steak sauce has a sweet, tangy, and peppery flavor profile that adds just the right amount of zest to your favorite entrée. Its versatility lies in its ability to layer flavor without overwhelming the dish—it pairs particularly well with robust meats like beef, lamb, or pork.

From a traditional perspective, steak sauce makes an excellent accompaniment to steak dishes such as surf and turf, ribeyes and prime rib. But don’t overlook the opportunity to add a delicious kick to more unusual dishes. Crispy shrimp, fried salmon, chicken wings, and steamed mussels all benefit from a sprinkle of steak sauce.

Whether you’re a steak aficionado or a neophyte to the nuanced world of condiments, giving steak sauce a place at the table is sure to liven up any dish you prepare. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you—you won’t regret adding a bit of flavor and flair to your culinary repertoire.

History of Steak sauce

to make it stick out

One of the most beloved and iconic condiments in the culinary world, steak sauce has a lengthy and often disputed history. The earliest origins of modern steak sauce are a matter of debate amongst food historians, with some claiming that it possibly was created in the late 1800s by French chef Auguste Escoffier or even earlier yet, by British nobility as far back as the 1700s.

Regardless of its exact origins, the steak sauce we know and love today is thought to have come into fruition around the early 1900s. Legend has it that this sauce was created by one of the grand chefs of the time, Charles Frank, who blended together several varieties of spices to create a pungent and savory flavor. Some say he used a mix of mustard, horseradish, garlic, sugar, onion, anchovy paste, spices, tamarind, vinegar and molasses.

The recipe was then commercialized in the 1930s, with companies such as Heinz and Lea & Perrins becoming well known for their own particular recipes for steak sauce. Since then, many other brands have since released their own sauces, each offering unique flavors and textures.

Today, steak sauce use is widespread and varied, with each region having its own preference for how to serve it. In the United States, steak sauce can be enjoyed with virtually any type of steak from filet mignon to t-bone steaks. It is also a popular accompaniment to other proteins such as pork and chicken, as well as a favorite dipping sauce for fried foods. Canadians often enjoy it with hot dogs, hamburgers, and barbecue ribs as well.

No matter where you are in the world, you are sure to find a steak sauce just right for your tastes. So, the next time you prepare a steak dinner, be sure to liven up the meal with some interesting steak sauce!