Both putting black pepper on a steak before or after cooking can yield delicious results, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are some considerations for each method:
Before Cooking: This is a common approach, and it allows the flavors of the black pepper to meld with the meat as it cooks. The high heat of cooking can help release the aromatic oils in the pepper, enhancing the overall taste of the steak.
After Cooking: Applying black pepper after cooking can provide a more potent and distinct pepper flavor, as the heat won't mellow out the spice. Some people prefer this method as it gives a more pronounced pepper kick to the dish.
If you want to experiment and find what suits your taste buds best, you could try both methods separately and see which one you prefer. Some people even combine both techniques by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper before cooking and then adding an extra sprinkle of freshly ground pepper after it's done.
Remember, when it comes to seasoning steaks, there's no absolute right or wrong way—it's about finding the method that enhances your enjoyment of the meal.