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+ servings

Perfect Mustard Steak Marinade

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A boldly flavored steak marinade that combines Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce for deeply savory, complex results. Brown sugar balances the acidity while red pepper flakes add a gentle kick. Whisk it together in minutes, then let the marinade do all the work.
Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 steaks ribeyes recommended
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Resealable bag or shallow container
  • Cast-iron skillet or grill
  • Cutting board
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce in a medium bowl and whisk until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes, then continue stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved and everything is evenly incorporated. Taste the marinade and adjust if needed — a small extra splash of Worcestershire can deepen the flavor.
  2. Use paper towels to pat the steaks completely dry on both sides, then season each side evenly with the kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Arrange the seasoned steaks in a shallow container or resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, and turn to coat all sides thoroughly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the deepest flavor.
  3. Pull the steaks from the refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before you plan to cook them so they can come closer to room temperature, which promotes more even cooking. Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot and just starting to smoke. Lift the steaks out of the marinade and let the excess drip off, then place them on the hot cooking surface. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness, keeping them undisturbed so a deep crust forms. Transfer to a cutting board and allow the steaks to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight delivers the most complex, well-penetrated flavor — don't exceed 24 hours or the acids can begin to break down the meat's texture. Strip steak, sirloin, and flank steak all work well here in place of ribeye; just adjust cooking times based on thickness and avoid cooking leaner cuts past medium. Store cooked leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently in a 250°F oven to preserve tenderness. Thinly sliced leftovers are excellent in salads, grain bowls, or quesadillas.

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