Coffee crusted steak is a delightful twist on a classic dish that adds a burst of flavor to your taste buds. The combination of rich, smoky coffee and savory steak creates a mouthwatering experience like no other. In this article, I will guide you through the process of making coffee crusted steak, step by step. So put on your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s get started!
The Perfect Cut of Steak
The first step in creating a delicious coffee crusted steak is choosing the perfect cut of meat. While any cut of steak will work, some are better suited for this particular recipe. Ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon tend to be the best options due to their tenderness and rich flavor. Take your time when selecting your steak to ensure the best quality and taste.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make the coffee crust, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
Preparing the Coffee Crust
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to prepare the coffee crust. In a small bowl, combine the ground coffee beans, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Coating the Steak
Once your coffee crust is ready, it’s time to coat the steak. Rub the coffee crust mixture evenly over both sides of the steak, pressing it firmly onto the meat. Make sure the entire steak is covered in the flavorful crust for maximum taste.
Preparation and Cooking
Resting Period
Before we jump into cooking the steak, it’s essential to let it rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Allowing the steak to rest ensures that it will cook more evenly and retain its juices, resulting in a tender and succulent final dish.
Preheating the Grill or Pan
While the steak is resting, preheat your grill or a cast-iron pan on medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Steak
Once the grill or pan is adequately heated, it’s time to cook the coffee crusted steak. Place the steak on the grill or in the pan, and let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness.
Resting Period – Part 2
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Serving and Enjoying the Coffee Crusted Steak
After the final resting period, your coffee crusted steak is ready to be served and enjoyed. Slice the steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and plate it with your favorite accompaniments. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes to complement the flavors of the coffee crusted steak.
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your coffee crusted steak experience, consider pairing it with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The wine’s bold flavors will complement the rich intensity of the coffee crust, creating a harmonious combination for your palate.
Experimenting with Variations
While the classic coffee crusted steak recipe is already a flavor explosion, don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. You can add a touch of cayenne pepper for some heat or incorporate different herbs and spices into the coffee crust. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make the dish your own.
In conclusion, making coffee crusted steak is a fantastic way to elevate a classic dish to new heights. With its unique combination of coffee’s smoky richness and the succulence of a perfectly cooked steak, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you’ll soon be savoring a mouthwatering coffee crusted steak that will leave you craving for more.