GIBSONS ROASTING SALT

"This blows the cover on a steakhouse secret. Coat a steak lightly with oil, and sprinkle on a bit of roasting salt just before cooking."

1/2 cup coarse (kosher) salt
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 small bay leaf, broken into pieces (optional)
2 1/4 teaspoons garlic powder
2 1/4 teaspoons onion powder
2 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Combine all ingredients in a blender or coffee grinder (one that is used for grinding spices only) and whirl for 30 seconds.

Transfer mixture to a jelly jar, label and store with other spices.

Makes about 2/3 cup
From: Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse, Chicago
Source: Steak Lover's Cookbook by William Rice