Traditional Steak Marinade

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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This traditional steak marinade is a game-changer for any beef lover looking to elevate their grilling experience. Packed with layers of flavors, it's perfect for creating juicy, tender steak every time. Whether you're planning a weekend BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, this marinade will make it unforgettable.

Ingredients for Traditional Steak Marinade

Olive oil brings richness and helps carry the flavors into the meat. Soy sauce adds a depth of umami and saltiness. Worcestershire sauce provides a unique savory tang. Red wine vinegar gives the marinade a nice acidity that tenderizes the steak. Lemon juice brightens everything with its citrus notes. Dijon mustard adds a bit of heat and complexity to the flavor profile. Brown sugar balances the acidity and adds a hint of sweetness. Garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuse the steak with aromatic flavors. Black pepper and salt complete the seasoning, enhancing all the other ingredients. Choose your favorite steak cut, about 2 pounds, to marinate.

Tips & Tricks

  • Marinate in a shallow dish if you prefer not to use plastic bags — just cover it tightly.
  • If short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade can still impart plenty of flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Serving Suggestions

This steak pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade makes an excellent beverage choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this marinade for chicken or pork?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with chicken and pork as well.
How long can I store the marinade in the fridge?
You can store the marinade for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
What cuts of steak work best with this marinade?
Ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak are excellent choices, but this marinade can enhance any cut.

Traditional Steak Marinade Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar until smooth. This is your flavor base, so make sure everything is well combined.

Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and salt. These aromatics will give your steak that irresistible aroma and flavor.

Place your steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it's fully submerged and coated. This is crucial for even flavor distribution.

Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least four hours, but if you can, leave it overnight. The longer, the better for that deep, rich taste.

When you’re ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is key to achieving a nice sear. Discard the used marinade and cook your steak to your preferred doneness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Transforms any cut of steak into a tender, flavorful masterpiece.
  • A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
  • Versatile enough to use with different types of meats.

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 pounds steak of choice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
3. Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully submerged and coated.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
6. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels before cooking to your preferred doneness.
7. Discard the used marinade.

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