Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs are a fun way to enjoy juicy pieces of steak marinated in a sweet and tangy mix. Toss in some colorful veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal on a stick!
They’re perfect for grilling in the backyard or when you want to impress your friends at a barbecue. I love serving them with a smile—and maybe a Coke in hand. Cheers! 🍖🥤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is juicy and flavorful, perfect for kabobs. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using tenderloin or flank steak. Both can work well, just be sure not to overcook them!
Coca-Cola: It adds sweetness and helps tenderize the steak. You can use any cola for a similar effect, or try root beer for a different flavor twist. For a non-soda option, consider using a mix of apple juice and vinegar.
Bourbon Whiskey: Gives a rich flavor to the marinade. If you’re looking for an alternative, try using rum or even a splash of apple cider for a different taste profile. Non-alcoholic bourbon substitutes are available to keep the flavor without the alcohol.
Soy Sauce: This brings in the umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, tamari works perfectly. If you want to reduce sodium, consider low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization. You can substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative like coconut sugar.
How Do I Marinade the Steak Properly?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into your kabobs. Here’s how to ensure your steak is flavorful and tender:
- Combine marinade ingredients well in a bowl. Make sure the sugar dissolves.
- Place the steak in a resealable bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly. The longer you marinate, the better the flavor; aim for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
Don’t forget to turn the bag occasionally, ensuring all pieces soak up that delicious marinade!
How to Make Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating—though overnight is best for extra flavor. You’ll also need around 15 minutes for grilling. So in total, you should allow a bit more than 2 hours for the complete process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the Coca-Cola, bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything together until it’s well blended and the sugar is mostly dissolved. This tangy-sweet marinade is the secret to tasty kabobs!
2. Marinating the Steak:
Place the cubed sirloin steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the steak cubes. Make sure every piece gets a nice coating. Seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the fridge. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 2 hours but ideally overnight.
3. Prepping for the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step as they’re good to go!
4. Assembling the Skewers:
Once marinated, remove the steak from the fridge and discard the marinade. Thread the steak pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each cube to ensure even cooking.
5. Grilling the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Rotate them until they are nicely browned and slightly charred, which will give that smoky flavor we all love. Grill until they reach your desired doneness—medium-rare is often recommended for steak!
6. Serving:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes; this helps keep them juicy. If you’d like, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley. Serve your delicious Bourbon and Coke Steak Kabobs with extra Coca-Cola or your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is a great choice, you can also use chicken, pork, or even shrimp. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat. Make sure to adjust grilling time accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked through.
How Long Can I Marinate the Steak?
You can marinate the steak for as little as 2 hours, but if you have time, marinating overnight will really enhance the flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat too much and affect its texture.
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
No worries! You can substitute bourbon with any whiskey or even a non-alcoholic option like apple cider vinegar for tanginess. The flavors will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweeter note if you choose a non-alcoholic option.
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 on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying them out. You can also quickly microwave them, covering with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.
