Ever feel a need to kick the flavor up a little? Well let’s just say this was a zesty first but I loved it. Flank steak marinated in coffee! This was a very flavorful piece of meat. Not only is it unique that I have never tried a sip of coffee in my life I actually loved this flank steak a lot. There definitely was a flavor of coffee but it was not overpowering. By marinating this cut of meat – it was almost like velvet in your mouth. Now don’t get me wrong – I honestly never tried velvet but I can imagine that it would be smooth and tender.

Marinating is a great way to flavor meats and break down the “tough” fibers and ensure tenderness. This process has been around for many years and it is proven. For some, it is a great way to buy less inexpensive meats and still have a great meal. On the meat side, a cut of meat like flank is all the rage because of it’s low fat content. However usually with a low fat content comes low flavor – that is where the marinating comes in to play.

Next time you are craving some beef – give this recipe a try.

Ingredients

• 1 Flank steak – 1 ½ pounds
• 1 Cup strong black coffee or espressos
• 1 ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 Cloves garlic finely chopped
• 1 Shallot finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp canola oil
• 2 Tbsp of brown sugar
• ½ Tsp coarse salt
• 1 Tsp ground black pepper

Method

1. Mix all ingredients but the steak, remove about ¼ cup of the  sauce to use later then add flank steak to the remaining marinade and marinate for at least 2 hours (can be up to next day).



2. Pat steak dry. Rub with small amount oil and grill until done basting frequently with the marinade, 3-6 min per side depending on thickness.



3. Rest at least 5 min before slice across grain. Rest is very important for this type of steak.





4. ENJOY!

Zesty Tip: If not a grill is not available then  broil for the same amount of time.  You do not want to cook this passed medium for optimal flavor and texture.

Around the Blogsphere

Now I know some of you may be looking for a different type of steak so of course I am always on the look out for you.  I happen to have come across a few pretty fun looking pieces of steak.  Check this out when you have some free time.

• Choosing Raw – A very interesting play on a raw steak.  I know I would love this combo.
• Aggie’s Kitchen – A pretty special looking Steak sandwich that i would pretty much love to sink my teeth.
• Sippity Sup – Greg shares a very interesting post on steak and really can enlighten the crowd around cuts of beef.
• Steamy Kitchen – Jaden kicks it up a notch and shares how to turn choice steak into “prime” steak.

So there you have it a fun post on steak with a great way to flavor it with coffee and some other great blogs that talk about steak.  I really hope you have a great weekend and let me know your thoughts on steak.

Take care

zesty

Today is the day!!  Our first family excursion by vehicle.  I am so excited although somewhat nervous , well not really but you know what I mean.  One of my favorite meals was on tap last night.  Nothing special, nothing fancy just some grilled beef , grilled sweet potatoes and some sugar snap peas sauteed with Balsamic Vinegar.  YUM!

Here are some shots

For the sweet potatoes, I microwave two on HIGH for 9 minutes, then slice them about an inch thick – toss in olive oil, salt and pepper and toss on the grill.

For the peas – I simply just stir fry in olive oil and toss in some balsamic vinegar and cook through (serve crunchy and hot).

Zesty Tip: Next time you grill beef – try turning the meat only ONCE ( Cook completely on one side before flipping and the end result will be juicy and rewarding).

I have a guest post lined up for tomorrow, Thursday and a fun post scheduled for Friday as I am not sure how much internet I will have through the week.  I will post you all on the trip once I return.

Take care

zesty