Introduction
Marinating steak is a simple yet effective way to infuse flavor into the meat. Whether you’re looking to enhance the natural flavors of a cut or experiment with new taste combinations, a well-made marinade can take your steak to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore six simple steak marinade recipes, tips and tricks for achieving great results, recommendations for different cuts of steak, quick and easy weeknight marinades, grilling tips, and adventurous marinades.
6 Simple Steak Marinades for Maximum Flavor
Marinades typically consist of an acidic liquid (like vinegar or citrus juice), oil, and a blend of herbs and spices. The acid helps to tenderize the meat while the oil and seasonings enhance the flavor. Here are six simple recipes to get you started:
Classic Garlic and Herb
This marinade is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. Combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, two cloves minced garlic, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl. Add the steaks to a resealable plastic bag and add the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Asian Soy Ginger
This marinade is packed with flavor and works well with thinly sliced cuts like flank steak or sirloin. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Creamy Worcestershire
This rich and tangy marinade is perfect for grilled steak. In a blender or food processor, combine 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 cloves garlic (minced), and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth, then marinade the steaks for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Citrus Cilantro
This marinade is bright, fresh, and delicious. Combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl. Add the steaks to a resealable plastic bag, pour in the marinade, and seal. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Balsamic Rosemary
This marinade is perfect for a hearty, thick cut of steak like a ribeye or striploin. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, two cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon freshly chopped rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Marinate the steaks for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Mustard and Brown Sugar
This savory-sweet marinade is perfect for sirloin or flank steak. In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Add the steaks to a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.
The Best Way to Marinate Steak: Tips and Tricks
Marinating steak is an art, and there are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results:
Give It Time
Marinating steak requires time for the flavors to infuse into the meat. While 30 minutes is the minimum recommended time, marinating for 24 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeper and yield a more intense taste.
Be Picky With Your Cuts
Not all cuts of meat are created equal when it comes to marinating. Lean cuts like filet mignon or tenderloin may not benefit as much as fattier cuts like striploin or ribeye. Choose cuts with more marbling, which will absorb the flavor better.
Avoid Over-Marinating
While marinating adds flavor and tenderness to steak, over-marinating can have the opposite effect. The acid in the marinade can break down the proteins in the meat, causing it to become mushy. Follow the recommended marinating times for each recipe to avoid this.
Marinating for Different Cuts of Steak: A Comprehensive Guide
Not all cuts of steak are created equal, and different marinades work best with different cuts. Here’s a guide to which marinades complement each cut best:
- Ribeye: Balsamic Rosemary
- Sirloin: Mustard and Brown Sugar
- New York Strip: Classic Garlic and Herb
- Filet Mignon: Citrus Cilantro
- Top Round: Asian Soy Ginger
- Flank Steak: Creamy Worcestershire
Quick and Easy Steak Marinades for Weekday Dinners
Weekday dinners can be hectic, with limited time for marinating steak. These marinades come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights:
Honey Soy
Whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Spicy Mustard
Combine 1/2 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Marinate for at least 1 hour.
Marinating Steak for the Grill: The Ultimate Guide
Grilling steak is an art, and marinating can take it to the next level. Here are some tips and tricks to make the most of your grill:
Get Your Grill Hot
Before you put the steak on the grill, make sure it is hot. Preheat the grill to a high temperature (at least 450°F) to get those coveted grill marks and a perfect sear.
Take Your Steak Out of the Fridge
Allow the steak to come to room temperature before grilling. Taking it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking ensures it cooks evenly.
Use the Right Marinade
Not all marinades are created equal when it comes to grilling. Avoid marinades with high sugar content, as the sugar can burn on the grill and create a bitter flavor. Choose oil-based marinades with lower acidity, which work well for grilling.
Monitor Temperature
A meat thermometer is a grillmaster’s best friend. Place the thermometer in the thickest part of the steak to monitor for doneness. Remember that the steak will continue to cook after removing it from the grill, so factor in a few extra minutes before cutting into it.
Steak Marinades That Go Beyond the Basics
Looking to get creative with your steak marinade? Try these adventurous recipes:
Coffee Rub
Combine 1/4 cup finely ground coffee, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Rub onto your steak and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
Cola Marinade
Mix together 1/2 cup cola, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Marinate for at least 1 hour.
Conclusion
Marinating steak is a simple but effective way to add flavor and tenderness to your meat. From classic garlic and herb to adventurous coffee rubs, there’s a marinade out there for every taste preference. Remember to choose the right cuts of meat, marinate for the recommended time, and avoid common mistakes like over-marinating. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be a steak marinating pro in no time.