These Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy juicy steak with a sweet twist! They’re marinated in bourbon and coke, making each bite flavorful and exciting!
Honestly, who doesn’t love food on a stick? It’s like a party for your mouth! I like to grill these up with some colorful veggies, and it’s always a hit at cookouts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is tasty and tender for kabobs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using flank steak or chicken breast instead. Both options will still pick up the marinade well.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a rich flavor. If you’re avoiding alcohol, try apple juice or a non-alcoholic whiskey for a similar taste without the spirits.
Coca-Cola: Classic Coke adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor. For a caffeine-free version, use caffeine-free Coca-Cola or any cola that you prefer. Dr. Pepper can also work well!
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings depth and saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, choose tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Coconut aminos can also be a great alternative.
Smoked Paprika: I love this spice for its smoky flavor! If you can’t find it, regular paprika or even chili powder could serve as substitutes, but you’ll miss that specific smokiness.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Kabobs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the steak cooked just right requires a bit of attention. Remember, the type of steak, marinade, and grilling time all play a role in tenderness. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to preheat your grill well. This helps achieve a good sear on the steak.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare. It’ll ensure it stays juicy!
- Resist the urge to press down on the steak while grilling; this releases juices and can lead to dryness.
- Let kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.
How to Make Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kabobs:
- 2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
For The Marinade:
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and marinate, plus at least 2 hours (or overnight) for the steak to soak up all the flavors. You’ll also need about 10 minutes for grilling. So, plan for a total of about 2 hours and 20 minutes, but the wait will be worth it for tasty kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the bourbon, Coca-Cola, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir well until everything is mixed together nicely. This marinade is what gives the steak its fantastic flavor!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place your cubed sirloin steak into a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring all the pieces are well-coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly and squish it around a bit to mix it up. If you’re using a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap. Now, pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours or, for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the marinated steak from the fridge and take the steak out of the marinade. Discard the leftover marinade (that’s an important step!). Now, thread the steak cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the kabobs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them to achieve your preferred doneness—medium-rare is especially tender and delicious!
5. Let Them Rest and Serve:
Once you’ve grilled the kabobs to your liking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your steak extra juicy. Pair your kabobs with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Feel free to customize your kabobs by adding colorful veggies like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra flavor and a pop of color! Enjoy your delicious Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is a great choice for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribeye, flank, or even tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut, so adjust accordingly to ensure perfect doneness!
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
No worries! If you don’t have bourbon, you can substitute it with any other whiskey, or for a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider vinegar or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract. Just remember to keep the total liquid volume balanced!
Can I Marinate the Steak Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the steak for up to 24 hours, which will enhance the flavor even further. However, be cautious with very long marination times as the meat could begin to break down and become mushy due to the acid in the marinade. A sweet spot is around 6-12 hours for optimal flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or grill them lightly until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook them during reheating!
