Grilled Coffee Steak – All Cooks Corner

Quick Benefits

Grilled Coffee and Cola Skirt Steak is a bold and flavorful dish that brings together the deep richness of coffee, the subtle sweetness of cola, and the smoky goodness of grilled beef. This marinade tenderizes the skirt steak while infusing it with complex layers of flavor. The result is a juicy, well-balanced steak with caramelized grill marks and a slightly spicy kick. Perfect for cookouts or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress.

Essential Ingredients

To make this flavorful steak, you will need the following ingredients:

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with a savory depth.
Cola-Flavored Carbonated Beverage: Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the steak.
Freshly Brewed Strong Coffee: Infuses a deep, roasted flavor.
Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
Ketchup: Provides a mild tanginess and helps in caramelization.
Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the taste of the beef.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
Dried Rosemary: Contributes an earthy, aromatic touch.
Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce: Brings a mild spiciness to the marinade.
Beef Skirt Steak: A flavorful and juicy cut perfect for grilling.
Cayenne Pepper: Adds an extra layer of heat to the steak.

Preparation Steps

Make the Marinade: Whisk together garlic, cola, coffee, rice vinegar, ketchup, black pepper, salt, rosemary, and hot sauce in a nonreactive bowl until fully combined.
Prepare the Steak: Trim the skirt steak and cut it into 6-inch lengths.
Marinate: Submerge the steak in the marinade, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.
Preheat the Grill: Heat the outdoor grill to medium-high.
Prepare the Steak for Grilling: Remove the steak from the marinade, pat it dry, and season with salt and cayenne pepper.
Reduce the Marinade: Simmer the marinade in a saucepan for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Strain and set aside.
Grill the Steak: Cook the steak for about 4 minutes per side until grill marks form and the steak reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness.
Rest and Serve: Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain. Drizzle with the reduced coffee-cola marinade.

Health Benefits

Rich in Protein: Provides 17g of high-quality protein per serving.
Lower in Calories: At only 213 calories per serving, this dish is a lighter steak option.
Packed with Iron: Contains 3mg of iron, essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
Antioxidants from Coffee: Coffee contains polyphenols that may have health benefits.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
Pair with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Complement with a glass of red wine or a classic cola beverage.
Serve on warm tortillas for a delicious steak taco variation.

Creative Variations

Smoky Bourbon Version: Add a splash of bourbon to the marinade for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Spicy Chipotle Style: Incorporate chipotle peppers for a smoky heat.
Honey-Glazed Twist: Add a tablespoon of honey for a subtle sweetness.
Asian-Inspired Version: Use soy sauce instead of salt and add a dash of sesame oil.

Storage Tips

Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
Freeze marinated uncooked steak for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Pro Tips

Pat the Steak Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures a perfect sear and beautiful grill marks.
Let the Steak Rest: This prevents juices from running out, keeping the meat tender.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures accurate doneness without overcooking.
Don’t Over-Marinate: 8-12 hours is ideal—marinating for too long can break down the meat too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Flank steak or hanger steak can be used as alternatives to skirt steak.

Can I cook this steak on a stovetop?

Yes, use a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for a similar result.

What if I don’t have cola?

You can substitute with root beer or Dr Pepper for a similar sweetness.

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee in ½ cup of water as a substitute.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, but you can reduce or omit the hot sauce and cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Enjoy your Grilled Coffee and Cola Skirt Steak, a perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and bold flavors!