Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a fun twist on grilling! Juicy pieces of steak are marinated in a mixture of bourbon and Coke, giving them a sweet and smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
These kabobs are perfect for a backyard cookout or a simple dinner at home. Just grill them up on skewers with your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for skewers since it’s tender and flavorful. If you want a leaner cut, you can try tenderloin. For a budget-friendly option, flank steak works too—it has great flavor when marinated well.
Coca-Cola: The soda adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat. If you prefer a less sugary option, use diet cola or even ginger ale for a different taste. For a non-soda alternative, a mixture of apple cider vinegar and a bit of brown sugar works well.
Bourbon Whiskey: This brings a rich, deep flavor. You can substitute it with any other whiskey you have on hand or even omit it entirely. For a non-alcoholic version, try using a splash of apple juice or a bourbon-flavored extract.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves really enhance the flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but you’ll want to reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Fresh Herbs: Using fresh parsley adds a nice touch. You can also try cilantro or chives for a different twist. If fresh is not available, dried herbs work, but use less since they are more potent.
How Do I Marinate the Steak Perfectly?
Marinating is key for flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. I recommend mixing everything really well to blend the flavors.
- Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes and make sure to coat each piece in the marinade thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate. Ideally, let it marinate overnight. If short on time, aim for at least 2 hours for good flavor absorption.
This step not only infuses the steak with flavor but also helps it stay juicy and tender when grilled. Trust me, the longer the marinade, the better the kabobs will taste!
How to Make Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade and Steak:
- 2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
You Will Also Need:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (you can even let it sit overnight for better flavor). Cooking on the grill takes about 8-10 minutes. Overall, you should plan for at least 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy these tasty kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Marinade:
Start by taking a large bowl and combining the Coca-Cola, bourbon, olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything well. This blend is going to make your steak super tasty!
2. Marinating the Steak:
Next, add the cubed sirloin steak into the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated evenly—give it a good stir if necessary. Now cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you have time). This step really boosts the flavor!
3. Preparing to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand, so they don’t burn on the grill.
4. Assembling the Kabobs:
Once marinated, take the steak out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This will help them grill nicely without steaming.
5. Grilling the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them often to get a nice char all around. Keep checking until they’re cooked to your desired doneness. Don’t rush; enjoy the grilling process!
6. Finishing Touches:
After grilling, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you like, garnish the kabobs with fresh herbs like parsley for a nice touch. Serve them warm and enjoy your flavorful Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for These Kabobs?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use other cuts like ribeye, flank, or tenderloin. Just make sure to cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep the marinated steak stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat even more!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for the Bourbon?
Definitely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, consider using a combination of apple cider vinegar and a touch of vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. You can also use non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives available in stores for a closer taste!
