Imagine it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and you’re gathering friends and family for a barbecue. As the grill heats up and laughter fills the air, you realize that grilled steak isn’t the only star of the show. To complement your perfectly marinated steak, picture fresh, crusty bread, vibrant salads, or perhaps tangy grilled vegetables.
You can also serve creamy mashed potatoes or savory roasted potatoes with herbs. Finally, add a bottle of your favorite red wine, and you’ve got a spread that’s hard to resist.
Now, let’s chat about how to achieve the perfect steak marinade that will elevate your barbecue game to new heights.
I first stumbled upon this marinade recipe during a vacation in Tuscany, where dinners were all about simple ingredients that packed flavor. From the first bite, I was hooked.
The tender, juicy steak melted in my mouth, thanks to a marinade that brought out the best in the meat. Fast forward a few years, and this recipe has become the cornerstone of my grilling adventures.
The beauty of this marinade lies in its simplicity and versatility. Each ingredient plays its part harmoniously, making bland cuts of beef sing. Whether you’re preparing for a backyard barbeque with friends or a cozy dinner date, this marinade promises to impress.
Plus, the prep time is minimal—perfect for busy schedules. Let me guide you through the ingredients I’ve come to love, and how to use them for maximum flavor in your steak.
What’s in This Marinade?
I’ve come to appreciate that the ingredients make this marinade truly exceptional. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 pounds of premium-cut steak
- 1/3 cup tamari sauce
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon roasted garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 Tablespoons Mediterranean herb blend (a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked sea salt
- Pinch of crushed chili flakes
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- Freshly chopped chives or parsley
How to Make the World’s Best Steak Marinade
Let’s dive into the steps to create this magic potion for your steak.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients. This makes the whole process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything. Cleaning up as you go can also help keep your cooking space organized.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the tamari sauce, lime juice, olive oil, balsamic Worcestershire sauce, garlic paste, Dijon mustard, honey, Mediterranean herb blend, black pepper, smoked sea salt, and crushed chili flakes. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Prepare the Steak
While your marinade is coming together, grab your steak. If it’s not already trimmed, remove any excess fat. Then, make a few shallow cuts across the surface of the meat. This helps the marinade penetrate and flavor the steak more effectively.
Step 4: Marinate the Steak
Place your steak in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag tightly, removing any excess air, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. This step allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.
Step 5: Time to Marinate
Refrigerate the steak for at least two hours or up to overnight for a more intense flavor. The lime juice works its magic during this time, tenderizing the meat.
Step 6: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
Step 7: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. I like to allow the steak to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. Grill your steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
Step 8: Baste with Butter
During the last few minutes on the grill, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of the steak. This melts into the meat, adding a luscious finish.
Step 9: Let It Rest
Once off the grill, allow the steak to rest for about five to ten minutes. This step is crucial. It lets the juices redistribute so they won’t run out when you slice the steak.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve!
Slice against the grain, garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley, and serve it with your favorite sides.
Recipe Notes
Each ingredient plays a role in enhancing flavor.
- Tamari Sauce: This enhances the umami notes in the meat, offering a savory backbone.
- Lime Juice: The acidity helps break down proteins, resulting in a more tender steak.
- Olive Oil: Provides moisture, preventing the steak from drying out as it cooks.
- Balsamic Worcestershire Sauce: Infuses itself deeply, introducing a unique tang.
- Garlic Paste: This adds depth and a warm flavor without being overpowering.
- Dijon Mustard: It acts as an emulsifier and hey, who doesn’t love a hint of spice?
- Honey: It caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Mediterranean Herb Blend: It’s like a trip to the Mediterranean with every bite!
- Black Pepper and Chili Flakes: These add dimension and a zing to your steak.
- Smoked Sea Salt: It brings the essence of barbecue right into your dish.
- Butter: Besides adding richness, it creates a delightful glaze.
- Chives or Parsley: These fresh herbs complete the dish, bringing color and freshness.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few twists on this marinade:
- Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add a tablespoon of harissa or Sriracha to the marinade for a fiery twist.
- Herbaceous Delight: Swap the Mediterranean herbs for your favorites such as cilantro or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Burst: Use orange juice instead of lime for a sweeter, citrusy flavor.
- Add Wine: Including a splash of red wine in the marinade can enhance complexity.
- Sweet and Smoky: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweet note.
World’s Best Steak Marinade Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds of premium-cut steak
- 1/3 cup tamari sauce
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon roasted garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 Tablespoons Mediterranean herb blend a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked sea salt
- Pinch of crushed chili flakes
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- Freshly chopped chives or parsley
Instructions
- Start by assembling all your ingredients. This makes the whole process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything. Cleaning up as you go can also help keep your cooking space organized.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the tamari sauce, lime juice, olive oil, balsamic Worcestershire sauce, garlic paste, Dijon mustard, honey, Mediterranean herb blend, black pepper, smoked sea salt, and crushed chili flakes. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
- While your marinade is coming together, grab your steak. If it’s not already trimmed, remove any excess fat. Then, make a few shallow cuts across the surface of the meat. This helps the marinade penetrate and flavor the steak more effectively.
- Place your steak in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag tightly, removing any excess air, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. This step allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.
- Refrigerate the steak for at least two hours or up to overnight for a more intense flavor. The lime juice works its magic during this time, tenderizing the meat.
- When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. I like to allow the steak to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. Grill your steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- During the last few minutes on the grill, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of the steak. This melts into the meat, adding a luscious finish.
- Once off the grill, allow the steak to rest for about five to ten minutes. This step is crucial. It lets the juices redistribute so they won’t run out when you slice the steak.
- Slice against the grain, garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley, and serve it with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Tamari Sauce: This enhances the umami notes in the meat, offering a savory backbone.
- Lime Juice: The acidity helps break down proteins, resulting in a more tender steak.
- Olive Oil: Provides moisture, preventing the steak from drying out as it cooks.
- Balsamic Worcestershire Sauce: Infuses itself deeply, introducing a unique tang.
- Garlic Paste: This adds depth and a warm flavor without being overpowering.
- Dijon Mustard: It acts as an emulsifier and hey, who doesn’t love a hint of spice?
- Honey: It caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Mediterranean Herb Blend: It’s like a trip to the Mediterranean with every bite!
- Black Pepper and Chili Flakes: These add dimension and a zing to your steak.
- Smoked Sea Salt: It brings the essence of barbecue right into your dish.
- Butter: Besides adding richness, it creates a delightful glaze.
- Chives or Parsley: These fresh herbs complete the dish, bringing color and freshness.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In the world of grilling, a great marinade can elevate your steak to legendary status. With this recipe, you’ll be equipped to add flavor and tenderness to any cut of meat. Trust me; your friends and family will rave about the meal.
Grab those ingredients, fire up the grill and create something extraordinary. Whether for a casual cookout or special occasion, this marinade will never disappoint.
So, let’s get grilling and enjoy the fruits of our labor!
