Balsamic Brown Sugar Steak Marinade
This marinade offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, perfect for enhancing the natural flavors of steak on busy weeknights or spontaneous barbecues.
Ingredients
For the Marinade Base
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar Can substitute with red wine vinegar.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener.
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce For gluten-free, choose tamari or coconut aminos.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary Use three times as much fresh.
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and thyme or rosemary until the sugar is dissolved.
Marinate the Steak
- Place the steak in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated.
- For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best.
Refrigerate
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Prepare for Cooking
- When you're ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
Grill or Cook the Steak
- Grill or cook the steak over medium-high heat to your desired doneness. Aim for about 7-10 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Rest the Steak
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For added flavor, consider topping with a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving, or experiment with different herbs.