These Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a fun twist on grilling! Juicy chunks of steak get marinated in a mixture of bourbon and coke, making them super tasty and a little sweet.
The best part? They’re perfect for summer BBQs or a cozy dinner with friends. I like to add colorful veggies to the skewers, making them look as good as they taste! 🍢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for grilling and absorbs flavors well. If flank steak is hard to find, you can substitute it with sirloin or ribeye; both will still give you a delicious result.
Coca-Cola: The Coca-Cola adds a sweet and tangy flavor while helping to tenderize the meat. You can swap it for Dr. Pepper or any similar soda, but avoid diet versions as they don’t work the same.
Bourbon: I love using bourbon for its rich taste, but if you’re not a fan of alcohol, you can use apple juice or a mixture of water and a bit of vanilla extract to mimic the flavor.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings that umami boost. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You can also substitute with liquid aminos for a milder flavor.
Olive Oil: I prefer light olive oil for marinating. If you’re looking for a change, avocado oil or even sesame oil can provide a unique twist to the flavors.
How Can I Ensure My Steak Kabobs Stay Tender and Flavorful?
To keep your flank steak tender and full of flavor, marinating is key. Aim for at least 2 hours, but longer is better—overnight is ideal. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to break down the meat fibers.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well before adding the steak.
- Cover the steak in the marinade, making sure it’s fully submerged for even flavoring.
- Remove excess marinade before grilling to avoid flare-ups and to get that nice grill marks without excess liquid.
Finally, letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute. This little step makes a big difference in tenderness and taste! Enjoy your flavorful kabobs!
How to Make Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Kabobs:
- 2 lbs flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 2 hours of marinating time. After marination, grilling will take about 10 minutes. So, you’ll need a total of around 2 hours and 25 minutes for preparation and cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the Coca-Cola, bourbon, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together well to create a tasty marinade that will really infuse the steak with flavor.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Next, take your cubed flank steak and add it to the marinade. Make sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or if you have the time, overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
3. Grill the Kabobs:
Now, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, remove the steak from the marinade and thread the cubes onto the skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Cooking to Perfection:
Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. The steak should be cooked to your desired doneness, so feel free to check it to ensure it’s just how you like it!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in the meat. Then, serve the kabobs on a platter. If you like, you can use the leftover marinade (just make sure to cook it well) or serve with your favorite barbecue sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! If flank steak isn’t available, you can use cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness and fat content of the meat. Aim for uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too tender and start to break down.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
To store leftovers, place the kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, as microwaving can make them tough.
