One of the things I love about grilling is the amazing flavors you can infuse into your food. There are so many different seasonings and marinades that can take your grilling experience to the next level. One particularly delicious and unique way to elevate the flavor of your steak is by using a coffee rub. Yes, you read that right – coffee! In this article, I will share with you a simple and delectable recipe for making a coffee rub for steak.
Why Use a Coffee Rub?
Enhanced Flavor
Now, you might be wondering why anyone would want to put coffee on their steak. Well, the truth is that coffee has a deep and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory taste of steak. The combination of these two flavors creates a unique and delicious taste that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Tenderizing Properties
In addition to its flavor-enhancing abilities, coffee also has tenderizing properties. The enzymes present in coffee help to break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. So not only will your steak taste amazing, but it will also be incredibly tender.
Contrasting Notes
Another reason to use a coffee rub is that it provides a wonderful contrast of flavors. The bitterness of the coffee complements the richness of the steak, creating a well-balanced and complex taste. If you are a fan of sweet and savory combinations, you are in for a treat with a coffee rub.
Ingredients for Coffee Rub
Now that we understand why using a coffee rub is a fantastic idea, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need to make your own delicious coffee rub for steak.
– 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon of black pepper
– 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
Instructions
Mixing the Rub
To begin, gather all your ingredients and a mixing bowl. Add the finely ground coffee, paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to the bowl. Make sure to mix everything together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Preparing the Steak
Before applying the coffee rub, make sure your steak is clean and dry. Pat it down with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the rub adhere to the meat better.
Applying the Rub
Next, generously coat both sides of the steak with the coffee rub. Massage it into the meat, ensuring that every inch is covered. The rub will create a beautiful crust on the steak while it grills, adding even more flavor and texture.
Letting it Rest
Once you have applied the rub, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and also ensure more even cooking.
Grilling the Steak
Preheating the Grill
While the steak is resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to give the grill enough time to reach the desired temperature before placing the steak on it.
Cooking Time
Once the grill is hot, place the steak directly on the grates. Depending on the thickness of the steak, cook it for about 4-6 minutes per side for a medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness. Remember, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
Resting the Steak
After removing the steak from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Enjoying Your Coffee Rubbed Steak
Once the steak has rested, it’s time to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness and savor the amazing flavors created by the coffee rub. The combination of the smoky grill marks, the rich coffee flavors, and the savory steak will undoubtedly take your grilling experience to new heights.
In conclusion, making a coffee rub for steak is a fantastic way to elevate your grilling experience. The unique flavor profile, tenderizing properties, and contrasting notes of the coffee rub create an unforgettable taste sensation. So don’t be afraid to get creative with your grilling seasonings and give the coffee rub a try. Your taste buds will thank you!