How To Make Peter Luger Steak Sauce Recipe

Peter Luger Steak Sauce is synonymous with classic American steakhouses. Founded in 1887, Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn became famous not just for its high-quality meats but also for the signature steak sauce that perfectly complements their cuts.

The sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and has a subtle kick of spice, making it an iconic addition to any meal, especially steak.

Key Points

Ingredients needed for the sauce
Step-by-step guide to making the sauce
Variations and customizations
Key techniques for a restaurant-quality sauce
Nutritional breakdown and storage tips
Popular pairings and cultural significance
Gluten-free and vegan alternatives
Tips for perfecting the sauce at home

Ingredients Needed for Peter Luger Steak Sauce

To make this flavorful sauce, you'll need:

Tomato paste or ketchup: The base of the sauce.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity and tang.
Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami flavour.
Brown sugar: Provides sweetness.
Horseradish: Adds a spicy kick.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavour.
Mustard (Dijon or yellow): Contributes depth.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

If any ingredient is unavailable, apple cider vinegar can be swapped for white vinegar, and mustard varieties can be interchanged based on personal preference. Choose a high-quality cut of steak like ribeye or porterhouse to pair with the sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peter Luger Steak Sauce

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Combine tomato paste or ketchup with apple cider vinegar in a mixing bowl.
Add Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and horseradish, ensuring the balance of sweetness and spice.
Stir in lemon juice and mustard. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce reaches a thick consistency.

Peter Luger Steak Sauce Variations

There are many ways to customise this sauce:

Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Sweeter alternatives: Increase brown sugar or use honey.
Pairing with different meats: Try it with lamb or turkey for a new twist on the classic recipe.

Key Techniques for a Restaurant-Quality Sauce

To achieve a high-quality sauce:

Ensure the sauce simmers long enough to meld flavours.
Maintain balanced acidity from vinegar to cut through the fat of the steak.
Avoid overheating, which can make the sauce too thick.

Serving Peter Luger Steak Sauce

This sauce isn’t just for steak. Consider these serving suggestions:

Drizzle over roasted vegetables.
Serve with grilled chicken.
Use as a dipping sauce for fries.
For a professional presentation, serve in a small ramekin alongside the steak.

The Nutritional Breakdown of Peter Luger Steak Sauce

A 2-tablespoon serving contains approximately:

Nutrient Amount

Calories ~35

Fat 0g

Sugar ~6g

This sauce has fewer calories compared to creamy alternatives like béarnaise or blue cheese dressings, making it a lighter option.

Storing and Preserving Peter Luger Steak Sauce

To keep your sauce fresh:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
If you make a large batch, freeze portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

How Peter Luger Steak Sauce Elevates Your Dining Experience?

Unlike commercial steak sauces that can overpower meat, Peter Luger’s recipe enhances the natural flavours of steak. It offers a harmonious blend of tanginess, sweetness, and spice while acting as a flavour enhancer rather than masking it.

Popular Pairings with Peter Luger Steak Sauce

Here are some ideal pairings:

Steaks: Ribeye, porterhouse, fillet mignon.
Sides: Roasted potatoes, asparagus, grilled mushrooms.
Alternative Proteins: Chicken, pork chops, lamb.

Peter Luger Steak Sauce in Popular Culture

Peter Luger Steak Sauce has been featured in various TV shows and cookbooks. Its reputation has made it a favourite among celebrities and foodies alike.

Peter Luger Steak Sauce as a Gift

Consider gifting this sauce to the steak lover in your life. Package it in a stylish bottle paired with a premium cut of steak for a memorable gourmet gift.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives

For dietary restrictions:

Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to make it gluten-free.
If you’re vegan, replace Worcestershire with tamari sauce and use vegan mustard.

Sauce Customizations for Different Palates

You can adjust flavours based on preferences:

For spice enthusiasts, add more horseradish or hot sauce.
If you prefer tanginess, increase vinegar and lemon juice amounts.

How Peter Luger Steak Sauce Became a Global Phenomenon?

Though its origins are in New York City, Peter Luger Steak Sauce has gained fans worldwide. Its simplicity and versatility have contributed to its enduring appeal among restaurants inspired by Peter Luger.