Marinating steak is a game-changer for flavor and tenderness. This best steak marinade recipe combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements to enhance your meat’s natural flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this marinade will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation to make your next steak dinner unforgettable!
Ingredients
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes enough marinade for 2 steaks. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and marinating time is at least 1 hour (up to overnight) before cooking.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 steak): 250 calories, 15g fat, 5g carbs, 1g fiber, 25g protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and honey.
2. Add minced garlic and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
3. Stir in black pepper and smoked paprika for seasoning.
4. Incorporate chopped fresh herbs of your choice.
5. Place your steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
6. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are well-coated.
7. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate.
8. Allow the steaks to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
9. Remove the steaks from the marinade, discarding the excess.
10. Grill or cook the steaks to your preferred doneness.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan-friendly version. Fresh citrus juice can also provide a zesty twist.
Serving and Pairings
This marinated steak pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of red wine.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. It’s not recommended to freeze the marinated steak due to texture changes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t marinate for too long; over 24 hours can make the meat mushy.
- Avoid using metal containers for marinating; they can react with acidic ingredients.
- Make sure to discard used marinade to prevent contamination.
- Always allow the steak to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps retain juices.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, try adding a splash of citrus juice to the marinade.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference.
- Let the steak rest before slicing for better juiciness.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the steak?
Marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for overnight. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Can I use this marinade for chicken or pork?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with chicken and pork, just adjust the marinating time as needed for different meats.
Is it necessary to discard the marinade?
Yes, it’s important to discard the marinade after use to avoid contamination and ensure food safety.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a few days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it before using.
What’s the best way to cook marinated steak?
Grilling is ideal for marinated steak, but you can also pan-sear or broil it. The key is to achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy.
Conclusion
This best steak marinade recipe is your ticket to a flavorful and tender steak. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can impress your family and friends with a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Best Steak Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and honey.
- Add minced garlic and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
- Stir in black pepper and smoked paprika for seasoning.
- Place your steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate.
- Allow the steaks to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Remove the steaks from the marinade, discarding the excess.
- Grill or cook the steaks to your preferred doneness.
- Let the steaks rest before slicing for better juiciness.
