Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game, let me introduce you to a dish that’s as bold as it is delicious: Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak. This recipe is a symphony of flavors that melds the deep, rich taste of coffee with the savory notes of soy sauce, creating a marinade that transforms a simple cut of beef into a tender, mouthwatering centerpiece for any meal. You can serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even on a bed of rice for a complete feast that will leave your friends and family raving.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak is not just another meat dish; it’s a culinary journey that combines the earthy essence of coffee with the umami richness of soy. The marinade is incredibly easy to whip up and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, flank steak is a budget-friendly cut that becomes tender and flavorful when marinated properly. With this recipe, you’ll impress your guests and enjoy a delightful meal without breaking the bank.
Ingredient List
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup strong coffee, at room temperature
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (2-pound) flank steak
Recommended Tools
- Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Whisk – To ensure all the marinade ingredients are well blended.
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish – For marinating the flank steak.
- Grill or grill pan – For cooking the steak to perfection.
- Meat thermometer – To check the doneness of the steak.
Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by gathering all the marinade ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, strong coffee, soy sauce, pepper, brown sugar, olive oil, rice vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the brown sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will give your steak a nice sear and help lock in those delicious juices.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
International Equivalents
- Garlic – Ajo (Spanish), Ail (French)
- Onion – Cebolla (Spanish), Oignon (French)
- Brown sugar – Azúcar moreno (Spanish), Sucre brun (French)
- Worcestershire sauce – Sauce Worcestershire (French), Salsa Worcestershire (Spanish)
Chef’s Rationale
The combination of coffee and soy sauce is not just for flavor; it also serves to tenderize the meat. Coffee contains natural acids and enzymes that break down tough muscle fibers, while soy sauce adds moisture and depth. The garlic and onion provide aromatic qualities that enhance the overall taste profile. This marination process transforms flank steak into a gourmet experience, making it suitable for any dining occasion.
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftover Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or slice it and use it cold in salads and sandwiches for a refreshing meal.
Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak Q&A
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, you can substitute it with skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of the cut.
Is this marinade suitable for other proteins?
Yes, this marinade works wonderfully with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time to suit the protein you choose.
How do I know when my flank steak is cooked to the right doneness?
The best way to check the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F; for medium, it should be around 140°F. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the grill.
What side dishes pair well with flank steak?
Flank steak pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even grilled corn on the cob for a summer barbecue feel.
That’s a Wrap
In conclusion, the Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak is a recipe that combines simplicity and sophistication. It’s perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a cozy meal at home. The harmonious balance of coffee and soy brings a unique flavor that will surely become a favorite in your household. With the easy steps outlined in this guide, you’ll find that mastering this dish is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and indulge in a steak that’s bursting with flavor!
Coffee and Soy Marinated Flank Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all the marinade ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, strong coffee, soy sauce, pepper, brown sugar, olive oil, rice vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the brown sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade.
- This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Leftover steak can be sliced and used in sandwiches or salads.
