These Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a tasty twist on grilling! Tender steak, marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, gets all the flavor when cooked on skewers with colorful veggies.
I love how easy it is to put these kabobs together. Just stick them on the grill, and you have a fun meal perfect for hanging out with friends or family. Who doesn’t love a good skewer? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye is great for this recipe due to its richness. If you’re seeking a leaner option, consider using flank or skirt steak. Both provide good flavor without too much fat.
Bourbon whiskey: This adds depth to the marinade. If you don’t have Bourbon, feel free to use another whiskey like rye or even a spiced rum for a different twist. Non-alcoholic options include apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of brown sugar.
Coca-Cola: It helps to tenderize the meat and adds sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, opt for diet Coke, or use a cola-flavored soda. You could also try root beer for a unique flavor.
Soy sauce: This adds umami and saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. Also, low-sodium soy sauce works well to cut down on salt!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings strong flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but use about 1/4 tsp per clove to keep it balanced.
How Do I Make Sure My Steak Kabobs are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak kabobs can be tricky if you want them just right. Here’s how to ensure perfectly grilled beef:
- For even cooking, try to cut the steak into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Let your grill heat up to medium-high before adding the skewers. A hot grill gives that nice sear!
- Be sure to turn the kabobs every couple of minutes for even cooking and browning on all sides. This also keeps them juicy.
- When it comes to doneness, use a meat thermometer: About 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes off the grill. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite.
How to Make Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Kabobs:
- 2 lbs steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and marinating, but the best flavor comes from letting the steak sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours or even overnight. Cooking on the grill will take another 8-10 minutes, so plan for a total of about 30 minutes, plus marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bourbon whiskey, Coca-Cola, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will add a delicious flavor to your steak!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed steak to the marinade, making sure all pieces are coated well. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you want even more flavor. The longer, the better!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to get a nice sear on the steak, locking in those flavors.
4. Thread the Steak onto Skewers:
Carefully remove the steak from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece, so they cook evenly. If you’ve used wooden skewers, shaking off excess marinade will help prevent burning.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Once your grill is hot, place the kabobs on it. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the grill when they’re at your desired doneness.
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy. Then, serve your Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs with your favorite sides, like grilled veggies or a fresh salad. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak, New York strip, or even tenderloin. Just remember that cooking times might vary depending on the thickness and fat content of the cut you choose. Always aim for uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking!
How Long Can I Marinate the Steak?
The steak can be marinated for anywhere from 2 hours to up to 24 hours. For the best flavor, try to let it marinate overnight. If you plan to marinate for more than 24 hours, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator to avoid any risk of spoilage.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Alcohol?
Yes! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the Bourbon with more Coca-Cola or a mix of cola and a splash of apple or cherry juice for sweetness. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, remove the kabobs from the skewer and warm them in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave them briefly. Serve over rice or in a salad for a yummy second meal!
