Name: Best Steak Marinade
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1-2 pounds steak

Marinating steak is the secret to achieving maximum flavor and tenderness. This best steak marinade recipe combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements to create an irresistible blend that penetrates the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this marinade will impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills.

Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1-2 pounds steak (your choice)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and marinating time should be at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours for best results). Cooking time varies based on steak thickness and desired doneness.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 6 ounces of steak) contains about 350 calories, 20g protein, 28g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This estimate may vary based on the cut of steak and specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until well combined.
Add minced garlic, chopped rosemary, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes into the mixture.
Place your steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
Let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
Cook the steak to your desired doneness, about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as substitutes. For a gluten-free option, replace soy sauce with tamari. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for varied flavors.

Serving and Pairings

This steak pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a glass of red wine to complement the rich flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to consume it fresh for optimal flavor.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t skip the marination time; longer marination enhances flavor.
Avoid overcooking the steak; use a meat thermometer for precision.
Don’t use too much salt in the marinade; soy sauce adds saltiness.
Let the steak rest before slicing to retain juices.
Ensure your grill or pan is hot enough before cooking.

Helpful Tips

Use a sturdy resealable bag for marinating to save on cleanup.
Try using different cuts of steak for varied textures and flavors.
Consider adding citrus juice for a fresh twist.
Experiment with spices to create your signature marinade.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the steak?

Marinating steak for at least 1 hour is recommended, but for best results, aim for 12-24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing taste and tenderness.

Can I use this marinade for chicken or pork?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with chicken and pork, offering a delicious flavor profile. Just adjust marinating times according to the type of meat.

What type of steak is best for marinating?

Cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin are excellent for marinating. These cuts benefit from the marinade’s flavor and tenderness, making them ideal for grilling.

Can I reuse the marinade?

It’s not recommended to reuse the marinade after it has come into contact with raw meat. However, you can reserve some before adding the steak for later use as a sauce.

Is it possible to grill frozen steak?

While it’s best to thaw steak before grilling, you can grill it from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Conclusion

This best steak marinade recipe is a game-changer for any steak lover. Its balance of flavors will leave your taste buds dancing and make your grilling gatherings unforgettable. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.