These bourbon and coke steak kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy grilled meat! Juicy steak pieces are marinated in a sweet and tangy mix that makes your mouth water.
Skewering them is a blast, and who doesn’t love a little char on the grill? I like to serve these with some fresh veggies on the side. Perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is perfect for kabobs because it’s tender and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using flank steak or chicken breast. Both will work well with the marinade.
Bourbon: Bourbon gives the steak a rich flavor. If you don’t have bourbon, you could try another whiskey or even apple cider vinegar for a different twist. Just remember that the flavor will change a little!
Coca-Cola: This adds sweetness and tenderness to the meat. If avoiding soda, a mix of brown sugar and water can achieve a similar effect. You can also use root beer or ginger ale as an alternative for a unique flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too, but use about half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly?
Preparing kabobs does take a little know-how to get even cooking. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure to preheat your grill. This helps to create a nice sear on the steak.
- Leave space between pieces of meat on the skewers. This allows heat to circulate and cook the steak evenly.
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F, as cooking times can vary with grill temperatures.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked kabobs every time!
How to Make Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours of marinating time. After marinating, grilling will take about 8-10 minutes. In total, expect to spend around 2 hours and 20 minutes to enjoy these delicious kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the bourbon, Coca-Cola, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture will be your tasty marinade that adds flavor to the steak.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed sirloin steak into the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have time for extra flavor. The longer it marinates, the better it tastes!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the marinated steak out of the fridge and thread the cubes onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. It’s okay to mix in some vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, if you want to add color!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly grilled. For medium-rare steak, look for an internal temperature of about 135°F.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Serve your Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs warm, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or enjoy them with your preferred dipping sauce. Dive in and enjoy the flavors!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for These Kabobs?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is great for kabobs, you can also use cuts like ribeye, flank steak, or even chicken for a different flavor. Just ensure that the meat is cut into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water for a non-alcoholic option. This will still provide a nice sweetness and flavor profile to the marinade.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the meat.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Just mix all the marinade ingredients together and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, add the steak and marinate as usual.
