Are you tired of bland, boring steaks that leave you disappointed? Get ready to transform your grilling game with this ultimate Classic Marinade that will elevate your steak from ordinary to extraordinary! This isn't just another marinade – it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen, combining rich umami, tangy notes, and aromatic herbs that will have your dinner guests begging for your culinary secrets.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the marinade: soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of soy sauce. This will serve as the base for your marinade, providing a rich umami flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of olive oil to the bowl. The oil will help to tenderize the meat and add a smooth texture to the marinade.
- Next, pour in 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar. This will add acidity, which helps to break down the proteins in the steak, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard into the mixture. This will add a tangy kick and help emulsify the marinade.
- Minced garlic is next; add 2 cloves to the bowl. Garlic will infuse the marinade with a robust flavor.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of black pepper for a bit of heat and depth.
- Finally, add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for a herby aroma and additional flavor complexity.
- Using a whisk or a fork, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the mustard is fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
- Once the marinade is ready, transfer it to a sealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and add your steaks. Make sure the steaks are well-coated with the marinade.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours for optimal flavor infusion. For best results, marinate overnight.
- When ready to cook, remove the steaks from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to promote a good sear when cooking.
- Your classic marinade is now ready to use, ensuring a deliciously seasoned steak!
Tips
- Marinating Time Matters: While 30 minutes will add flavor, letting your steaks marinate overnight (up to 8 hours) will result in maximum taste penetration and tenderness.
- Pat Dry for the Perfect Sear: Always remove excess marinade and pat the steaks completely dry before cooking. This ensures a beautiful, crispy exterior when you grill or pan-sear.
- Temperature is Key: Let your steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents tough meat.
- Don't Reuse Marinade: Always discard the marinade used with raw meat to prevent bacterial contamination. If you want a sauce, make a fresh batch.
- Experiment with Cuts: This versatile marinade works beautifully with various steak cuts – from budget-friendly flank steak to premium ribeye.
- Storage Hack: You can prepare this marinade in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making meal prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
