Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak is a game-changer for your summer barbecues and weeknight dinners. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this marinade elevates skirt steak into a juicy, tender delight that everyone will love. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, it’s versatile enough to make any occasion special. The unique combination of ingredients creates a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This marinade takes just 10 minutes to whip up, letting you focus on grilling.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of soy sauce, garlic, and molasses creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Use: While it’s perfect for skirt steak, you can use it on other meats too!
• Perfectly Tender Meat: Marinating the steak ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for parties or family dinners; everyone will ask for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start, gather your tools and get ready to create deliciousness! Having the right equipment makes this process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large zip bag
• Grill
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large zip bag: Keeps the marinade contained while ensuring even coverage on the steak.
• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method for achieving that perfect charred flavor.
• Knife: Important for slicing the meat against the grain to maintain tenderness.

Ingredients

Very flavorful marinade for steak!

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 3 medium garlic cloves, (peeled & smashed with the side of a knife)
• 1/2 medium onion, (chopped)

For the Steak

• 2 pounds skirt steak

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large zip bag, mix all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
2. Smash the garlic and onion slightly to release their flavors into the marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. Add the skirt steak into the zip bag with the marinade.
2. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for 3 to 12 hours, allowing those flavors to soak in.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

1. About 15 minutes before grilling, take the steak out of the refrigerator.
2. Let it sit at room temperature while you preheat your grill to medium heat.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

1. Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the grill.
2. Grill each side for about 5 to 8 minutes depending on your preferred doneness.
3. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately! Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Serving your grilled skirt steak with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the rich flavors of the steak.
• Greek Salad – A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese provides a refreshing contrast to the savory steak.

Accompany with Grains

• Quinoa – This nutty grain adds a healthy touch and absorbs the delicious juices from the steak.
• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice with herbs and spices makes a great base for your marinated skirt steak.

Add Sauces and Salsas

• Chimichurri Sauce – This herb-based sauce brings a zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meat.
• Spicy Salsa – A fresh salsa adds brightness and spice, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

To make the most out of your marinade for grilling skirt steak, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold flavors matter – Use fresh ingredients like garlic and onions for maximum flavor impact in your marinade.
• Marinate wisely – Allowing the steak to marinate between 3 to 12 hours will help tenderize it while infusing it with flavor.
• Bring to room temperature – Let the steak sit out for 15 minutes before grilling; this ensures even cooking.
• Grill at medium heat – Cooking at medium heat prevents charring while allowing thorough cooking; aim for 5 to 8 minutes per side.
• Rest before slicing – Letting the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling helps retain its juices for a tender bite.

Best Side Dishes for Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

Choosing side dishes that complement your grilled skirt steak enhances your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring color and sweetness alongside your steak.
2. Baked Potatoes – Classic baked potatoes topped with butter or sour cream provide a hearty side.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness that balances the savory flavors of beef.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy macaroni gives a comforting feel that pairs well with grilled meat.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of skirt steak.
6. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra marinade juices left on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your steak.

• Using Too Little Marinade: A small amount of marinade won’t penetrate the meat properly. Use enough marinade to coat the steak thoroughly for optimal flavor.
• Marinating for Too Short a Time: If you marinate for less than three hours, the flavors won’t have time to develop. Aim for at least three hours, but up to twelve hours is ideal.
• Not Letting the Steak Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, leading to dryness. Let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing.
• Skipping Room Temperature Step: Cooking cold steak can lead to uneven cooking. Allowing it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling ensures even cooking.
• Ignoring the Grain of the Meat: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Always check the grain direction and slice accordingly for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or zip bag.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent contamination.

Freezing Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label with date and contents before freezing.

Reheating Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak in a baking dish covered with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and gently reheat slices until warmed through, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak?

The best marinade includes soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, molasses, garlic, and onion. This combination enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat beautifully.

How long should I marinate skirt steak?

For optimal flavor, marinate skirt steak between 3 to 12 hours. The longer it marinates, the more pronounced the flavors will be!

Can I use this marinade on other cuts of beef?

Yes! This marinade works well with various cuts of beef like flank steak or sirloin. Feel free to experiment with different types!

How do I know when my skirt steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; skirt steak is typically medium rare at 130-135°F (54-57°C). Adjust cooking time according to your preferred doneness.

Final Thoughts

The Best Marinade for Grilling Skirt Steak delivers incredible flavor and tenderness, making it a must-try recipe. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides or enjoy it as part of another dish like tacos or sandwiches. Don’t hesitate to customize this marinade by adding herbs or spices that suit your taste!