These Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a tasty twist on grilling! Juicy pieces of steak are marinated in a sweet bourbon and coke mixture, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
Just imagine serving these kabobs at your next cookout! They’re easy to make and always a hit. I love throwing them on the grill and watching them disappear in seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: Both cuts are great for kabobs. Flank steak is lean and tender, while sirloin has a bit more flavor. You could also use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Bourbon Whiskey: This adds depth and sweetness. If you don’t have bourbon, try a different whiskey or even a non-alcoholic option like apple juice for a similar flavor.
Coca-Cola: Its sweetness caramelizes during grilling. If you want a healthier alternative, diet cola or root beer can work, but the flavor might change slightly.
Soy Sauce: It’s essential for umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. You can also substitute with coconut aminos for a lighter taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps the marinade stick. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup, but adjust based on your sweetness preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Kabobs Are Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor and tenderness into the steak. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This gives the meat time to absorb the marinade completely.
- Mix all marinade ingredients until sugar dissolves. The longer the steak marinates, the richer the flavor.
- When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high; this ensures good searing without overcooking the meat.
- To check doneness, use a meat thermometer; aim for about 135°F for medium-rare, adjusting for your preference.
How to Make Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For Grilling:
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)
- Optional: bell peppers, onions, or other vegetables for skewering
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 2 hours for marinating. You can let it sit overnight for the best flavor. The grilling time is about 8-10 minutes, so overall, plan for around 2 hours and 20 minutes total, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the bourbon, Coca-Cola, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk everything well until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This will be your delicious marinade!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the steak cubes into the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let the steak marinate for at least 2 hours—if you can, let it sit overnight for even more flavor!
3. Prepare Your Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling. This step is important for tasty, charred kabobs!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to a medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for grilling your kabobs!
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the marinated steak cubes and thread them onto the skewers. Feel free to alternate with pieces of bell peppers, onions, or any other vegetables you like. This adds great flavor and color to your kabobs!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them until the steak reaches your preferred doneness—135°F is perfect for medium-rare.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this helps keep the juices inside the meat.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in and savor the flavors! Enjoy your Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside some rice or a fresh salad. Happy grilling!
Can I Use A Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank or sirloin steak works great, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or even chicken if you prefer. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content, so adjust your grilling time accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you don’t have bourbon on hand, you can substitute it with other whiskey varieties like rye or even a mix of apple cider vinegar and a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic option. Keep in mind that the flavor profile might differ slightly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good whisk before adding the steak to ensure everything is well-combined.
