Smoked Paprika-Rubbed Steaks with Valdeon Butter Recipe

Smoked Paprika-Rubbed Steaks with Valdeon Butter Recipe

  • 4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon Pimenton de la Vera (smoked Spanish paprika)
  • Pinch of cayenne
  • Pinch of dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 (10 ounce) rib-eye steaks, about 1 inch thick
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
  • 1 scallion, dark-green part only, finely chopped
  • 2 ounces Valdeon or other intense and creamy blue cheese, crumbled, at room temperature
  1. On a work surface, using the flat side of a chef's knife, mash the garlic to a paste with the salt. Scrape the garlic into a small bowl. Stir in the paprika, cayenne and oregano. Gradually stir in the olive oil. Spread the mixture on a large platter, add the steaks and turn to coat, rubbing in the marinade. Let stand at room temperature for 1 to 4 hours or refrigerate overnight.
  2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mash the butter with the shallot and scallion. Stir in the Valdeon. Scrape the blue cheese butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap and pat it into a 4-inch log. Wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 30 minutes.
  3. Light a grill or preheat a grill pan. Scrape some of the marinade off the steaks and grill over a medium-hot fire, turning once, about 8 minutes for medium-rare meat. Slice the butter 1 inch thick, set a pat on each steak and serve.