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- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
- Brown sugar
Once these ingredients are mixed together, add the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well combined. Finish with the lemon zest for a touch of freshness.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place your steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it marinate for 2-4 hours. If you have the time, marinating overnight will allow the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
Pro Tip: If you’re marinating more than one steak, be sure that each steak gets enough marinade. You can also flip the steak halfway through marinating to ensure an even coating of flavor.
Step 3: Cook Your Steak
Once your steak has marinated to perfection, remove it from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill your steak to your desired doneness, about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of the steak.
- Pan-Sear: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, and sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Broil: Set your oven’s broiler to high and cook the steak on a broiler pan, about 4 inches from the heat, for 4-6 minutes per side.
Tip: Remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your steak is cooked to your liking, serve it hot and enjoy the tender, juicy, and flavor-packed steak that has been perfectly marinated. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal your guests will be talking about for days.
Why This Marinade Works
- Soy Sauce: The saltiness of soy sauce helps to enhance the steak’s natural umami flavor while tenderizing the meat with its protein-breaking enzymes.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to keep the steak moist and juicy while adding richness.
- Balsamic Vinegar and Worcestershire Sauce: These ingredients balance the acidity of the marinade while providing a complex, savory flavor profile.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a slight tanginess and depth of flavor that complements the richness of the steak.
- Brown Sugar: Sweetness from brown sugar caramelizes during cooking, giving the steak a beautiful crust and balancing the savory notes.
- Herbs and Garlic: Fresh rosemary and thyme infuse the steak with herbal aromatics, while garlic brings a robust, aromatic flavor.
Tips for Perfecting Your Steak with This Marinade
- Choose the Right Cut of Steak: While this marinade works with all cuts of steak, it shines particularly with flank steak, sirloin, and ribeye. If you’re using a tougher cut like skirt steak or round steak, marinate for a bit longer to allow the tenderizing process to work its magic.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic make a significant difference in flavor. Try to avoid using dried herbs for this marinade if you can.
- Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating is key to enhancing flavor, leaving your steak in the marinade for too long can cause it to become mushy. Stick to the recommended marinating time for the best results.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients. Add a splash of bourbon for a smoky flavor, or use chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.
Variations of the Best Steak Marinade
While this marinade is already pretty perfect, you can always tweak it to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy Steak Marinade: Add more red pepper flakes, sriracha, or jalapeño slices to give your steak a spicy kick.
- Citrus-Infused: Add orange zest or lime juice for a bright, citrusy twist that complements the steak’s richness.
- Smoky Steak Marinade: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor that’s perfect for grilling.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a steak marinade that will truly elevate your meal, this Best Steak Marinade in Existence is the answer. It combines simple ingredients that work together to tenderize, flavor, and enhance your steak, creating a dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or cooking for a special occasion, this marinade will give you steak that tastes like it came from a top-tier steakhouse. So, fire up your grill, get your steak marinating, and get ready for a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for your secret!
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