INGREDIENTS
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this mouth-watering marinade:
12 oz steak
⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 sprigs rosemary (minced)
⅔ cup dark brown sugar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Mince the Garlic and Rosemary Begin by mincing two cloves of garlic and two sprigs of fresh rosemary. The finer the mince, the more flavor will be infused into the marinade.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade Base In a medium-sized bowl, combine ⅓ cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, ⅔ cup of dark brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Spices To the balsamic mixture, add the minced garlic and rosemary. Then, incorporate ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ⅓ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine the Marinade with the Steak Pour the marinade into a large zip-lock bag. Add the steak to the bag, ensuring it’s fully coated with the marinade. Seal the bag, and give it a good shake to ensure the marinade is well distributed.
Step 5: Marinate the Steak Place the marinating steak in the refrigerator for at least six hours. For the best results, you can marinate it overnight. The longer the steak sits in the marinade, the more flavorful and tender it will become.
Step 6: Prepare to Cook After marinating, remove the steak from the bag and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps to achieve a nice sear when cooking. Let the steak sit at room temperature for a few minutes while you prepare the skillet.
Step 7: Cook the Steak Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the steak. Cook it until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak and your personal preference.
Step 8: Rest and Serve Once the steak is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately.
NUTRITION:
Marinating Time: For tougher cuts of meat, marinating is essential. It helps break down the muscle fibers, making the meat tender and infusing it with delicious flavors.
Versatility: This marinade isn’t just for steak. Feel free to use it on other cuts of meat, such as pork chops, chicken breasts, or lamb. Each will take on a delightful flavor twist.
Storage: Any leftover marinade can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure not to reuse the marinade that has come into contact with raw meat unless it has been cooked.
Why Marinate?
Marinating steak not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances its texture. The acidity from the balsamic vinegar and the tenderizing properties of the soy sauce break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender. The brown sugar caramelizes during cooking, creating a beautiful crust that’s full of complex flavors. Combined with the aromatic garlic and rosemary, this marinade will make your steak unforgettable.
Enjoy Your Gourmet Steak
With this Gordon Ramsay-inspired marinade, you can elevate your home-cooked steaks to a gourmet level. The process is simple, but the results are spectacular. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this steak marinade is sure to impress. Enjoy your steak with your favorite side dishes and a glass of good wine for a complete dining experience.