Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak recipe

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something undeniably captivating about the aroma of steak sizzling on a hot grill. It speaks of summer evenings, backyard barbecues, and the pure joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. But sometimes, you want to elevate that classic steak experience, to venture beyond the usual salt and pepper and explore bolder, more complex flavors. That’s where this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak recipe comes in, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in my kitchen.

I stumbled upon this recipe years ago, intrigued by the seemingly unusual combination of coffee and steak. Skeptical yet curious, I decided to give it a try, and the results were nothing short of extraordinary. The first bite? A revelation. The robust, slightly bitter coffee beautifully complemented the rich, savory beef, while the brown sugar added a touch of caramelized sweetness that was simply addictive. And the texture! The crust created by the coffee and brown sugar was perfectly crisp and flavorful, contrasting beautifully with the tender, juicy skirt steak within.

Since then, this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak has become a staple in our home. It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor that always impresses. Whether we’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The complex flavors and tender texture elevate skirt steak from a budget-friendly cut to a truly special meal. If you’re looking to take your steak game to the next level and experience a flavor combination that is both unexpected and utterly delicious, prepare to be amazed by this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak. Get ready to unleash steakhouse flavor in your own kitchen – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients: The Harmony of Coffee, Spice, and Sweetness

The magic of this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak lies in the carefully balanced blend of ingredients that create a flavorful and aromatic crust. Each component plays a vital role in tenderizing the meat and infusing it with its signature taste. Let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need to gather for this culinary adventure:

  • Skirt Steak: The star of the show! Skirt steak is a flavorful and relatively thin cut of beef, known for its tenderness and ability to absorb marinades and rubs beautifully. You’ll need about 2 pounds of skirt steak.
    • Inside Skirt vs. Outside Skirt: There are two types of skirt steak: inside skirt and outside skirt. Outside skirt is generally considered more tender and flavorful, but inside skirt is also delicious and more readily available and often more affordable. Either type will work well in this recipe.
    • Trimming: Skirt steak often has a thick membrane or silverskin on one side. It’s recommended to trim this membrane before marinating, as it can be tough and chewy. Use a sharp knife to carefully slide it under the membrane and remove it. You can also trim any excess fat from the steak if desired.
    • Quality Matters: Choose skirt steak that is well-marbled with fat for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for steaks that are bright red in color and have a fresh appearance.
  • Freshly Ground Coffee (Medium to Dark Roast): Coffee is the secret ingredient that provides a deep, rich, and slightly bitter base to the crust. Freshly ground coffee is crucial for maximizing flavor and aroma. You’ll need about ¼ cup of freshly ground coffee.
    • Medium to Dark Roast (Recommended): Medium to dark roast coffee beans are recommended for this recipe as they offer a bolder coffee flavor that stands up well to the other spices and richness of the beef.
    • Espresso Grind (Ideal): An espresso grind or a slightly finer grind is ideal for the coffee crust, as it adheres better to the steak and creates a more even coating. If using a coarser grind, you can pulse it briefly in a spice grinder or food processor to achieve a finer consistency.
    • Decaffeinated Coffee (Option): You can use decaffeinated coffee if you are sensitive to caffeine or making this dish in the evening. The flavor will be very similar.
    • Avoid Instant Coffee: Do not use instant coffee for this recipe, as it lacks the depth of flavor and aroma of freshly ground coffee.
  • Brown Sugar (Light or Dark): Brown sugar adds sweetness, molasses notes, and helps to create a caramelized crust during cooking. You’ll need about ¼ cup of packed brown sugar (light or dark).
    • Light Brown Sugar (Caramel Notes): Light brown sugar provides a caramel-like sweetness and works well in this crust.
    • Dark Brown Sugar (Molasses Depth): Dark brown sugar offers a richer molasses flavor and deeper color to the crust. You can use either light or dark brown sugar, or a combination of both, depending on your preference.
  • Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth and subtle sweetness to the crust, enhancing the savory and complex flavor profile. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika.
    • Sweet Paprika (Substitute): If smoked paprika is unavailable, you can use sweet paprika as a substitute, but the smoky element will be missing. Consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to compensate for the smoky flavor if desired.
    • Hot Paprika (Spice Kick – Optional): For a touch of heat, you can substitute a portion of the smoked paprika with hot paprika or cayenne pepper.
  • Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a convenient and consistent garlic flavor throughout the crust, adding savory depth and aroma. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
    • Fresh Garlic (Alternative, Roasted Garlic): You can use roasted garlic puree instead of garlic powder for a sweeter and more mellow garlic flavor. Roast a head of garlic and mash the cloves to create a puree. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of roasted garlic puree.
  • Onion Powder: Onion powder complements the garlic powder, adding another layer of savory depth and aromatic complexity to the crust. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of onion powder.
  • Dried Oregano: Dried oregano adds a subtle earthy and slightly peppery note to the crust, enhancing its overall flavor profile. You’ll need about 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
    • Dried Thyme or Rosemary (Alternatives): You can substitute dried oregano with dried thyme or dried rosemary for slightly different herbal notes.
  • Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients in the crust and the steak itself. You’ll need about 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, or to taste.
  • Black Pepper (Freshly Ground): Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent spice and enhances the overall flavor profile, complementing the other seasonings. You’ll need about 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, or to taste.
  • Olive Oil (or High-Heat Cooking Oil): Olive oil or another high-heat cooking oil is used for searing the skirt steak, preventing sticking and promoting even browning. You’ll need about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or high-heat cooking oil.

Detailed Ingredient List:

  • 2 pounds Skirt Steak, trimmed
  • ¼ cup Freshly Ground Coffee, medium to dark roast, espresso grind preferred
  • ¼ cup Packed Brown Sugar, light or dark
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil or High-Heat Cooking Oil, for searing

Instructions: Crafting Your Coffee and Brown Sugar Crust Masterpiece

Making this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is surprisingly simple, and the reward is a flavor-packed, tender steak that rivals any steakhouse offering. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own culinary masterpiece:

  1. Prepare the Coffee and Brown Sugar Crust Rub: In a medium bowl, combine the freshly ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and well combined. Tip: Whisking ensures that the spices are evenly mixed and will create a consistent crust on the steak.
  2. Pat Skirt Steak Dry: Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels. This is important for the crust to adhere properly and for achieving a good sear. Tip: Patting the steak dry removes excess moisture, allowing the rub to stick better and promoting browning.
  3. Generously Rub the Skirt Steak: Generously rub the coffee and brown sugar crust mixture all over both sides of the skirt steak, pressing it firmly to ensure it adheres well. Make sure to coat every surface of the steak evenly with the rub. Tip: Don’t be shy with the rub! A generous coating is key to developing a flavorful and robust crust.
  4. Marinate (Optional, Recommended for Deeper Flavor): For a deeper flavor infusion, you can let the rubbed skirt steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Marinating allows the flavors of the coffee and spices to penetrate the meat and tenderize it slightly. If marinating for longer than 30 minutes, cover the steak and refrigerate. If short on time, you can skip the marinating step and cook the steak immediately after applying the rub, it will still be delicious. Tip: Marinating enhances flavor but is optional if you’re in a hurry.
  5. Bring Steak to Room Temperature (Before Cooking): If you marinated the steak, remove it from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking and let it come to room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Tip: Bringing steak to room temperature before cooking promotes more even cooking and prevents a cold center.
  6. Heat Oil in Skillet or Prepare Grill: Heat olive oil (or high-heat cooking oil) in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high to high heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot. Alternatively, preheat your grill to medium-high to high heat. Tip: High heat is essential for searing skirt steak and creating a flavorful crust.
  7. Sear Skirt Steak: Carefully place the rubbed skirt steak in the hot skillet (or on the preheated grill). Sear for 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Searing time will depend on the thickness of your steak and the heat of your skillet or grill. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat. Tip: Searing quickly at high heat creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices.
  8. Use a Meat Thermometer (For Desired Doneness): For accurate doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Here are the target internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
    • Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
    • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
    • Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
    • Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
    • Well-Done: 145°F+ (63°C+)
    Skirt steak is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness. Overcooking can make it tough.
  9. Rest Before Slicing: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the skirt steak from the skillet or grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tip: Resting is crucial for tender and juicy steak. Don’t skip this step!
  10. Slice Against the Grain: Skirt steak has a distinct grain. To maximize tenderness, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew. Tip: Slicing against the grain is essential for tender skirt steak. Identify the grain direction and slice accordingly.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is now ready to be served! Refer to the “Serving Suggestions” section for delicious ideas on how to enjoy your culinary creation.

Nutrition Facts: Indulgent Flavor, Moderate Profile

While Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is undeniably rich in flavor, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when portion sizes are considered. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming a 4-ounce serving of cooked skirt steak, and rub contribution is per serving portion):

  • Servings: Recipe is enough for approximately 4-6 servings of skirt steak (depending on size of steaks). Nutritional information is per estimated serving of cooked skirt steak.
  • Serving Size: Estimated 4 ounces (113 grams) cooked Skirt Steak (approximate).

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (cooked Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak):

  • Calories: 280-380 calories (Varies depending on leanness of skirt steak and fat content)
  • Fat: 15-25 grams (Varies depending on leanness of skirt steak)
    • Saturated Fat: 5-10 grams (Varies depending on leanness of skirt steak)
  • Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
  • Sodium: 400-600 mg (Varies depending on salt added and rub amount)
  • Carbohydrates: 8-12 grams (Primarily from brown sugar in rub)
    • Dietary Fiber: 1-2 gram
    • Sugars: 7-10 grams (Primarily from brown sugar in rub)
  • Protein: 30-40 grams

Important Notes on Nutrition:

  • Estimates: These are estimated values and can vary based on the specific cut of skirt steak, ingredient brands, cooking method, and portion sizes.
  • Lean Protein Source: Skirt steak, while flavorful, is considered a moderately lean cut of beef, providing a good source of protein with a moderate amount of fat, especially if excess fat is trimmed before cooking.
  • Rub Contribution: The coffee and brown sugar rub contributes a relatively small amount of calories, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium per serving, as much of it caramelizes and renders off during cooking. However, the nutritional values provided do account for the rub absorbed by the meat.
  • Sodium Content: The sodium content can be moderate depending on the amount of salt added to the rub. Adjust salt to taste, especially if watching sodium intake.
  • Enjoy in Moderation: While nutritious, enjoy this richly flavored steak in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
  • Iron and B Vitamins: Beef, including skirt steak, is a good source of iron and B vitamins.

Tips for a Healthier Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak:

  • Trim Excess Fat: Trim any visible excess fat from the skirt steak before applying the rub to reduce fat content.
  • Control Sugar Intake: While the brown sugar is crucial for the crust, be mindful of the sugar content, especially if you are watching your sugar intake. Use light brown sugar and avoid adding extra sugar to the rub.
  • Serve with Vegetables: Pair your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak with plenty of vegetables, such as grilled asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a fresh salad, to create a balanced and nutritious meal.
  • Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie and fat intake. A 4-ounce serving of cooked skirt steak is a recommended portion size for a lean protein source.

Preparation Time: From Rub to Restaurant-Worthy Steak in Under 30 Minutes

One of the appealing aspects of this Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak recipe is its relatively quick preparation time, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or when you want an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation time:

  • Prep Time (Active): 10-15 minutes (This includes grinding coffee, measuring spices, mixing rub, trimming steak, and applying rub).
  • Marinating Time (Optional, Inactive): 30 minutes to 2 hours (Optional marinating time in the refrigerator).
  • Cook Time (Active): 5-10 minutes (Searing skirt steak in skillet or grilling).
  • Resting Time (Inactive): 5-10 minutes (Steak resting time after cooking).
  • Total Active Time: 15-25 minutes
  • Total Time (Including Optional Marinating): 40 minutes to 2 hours 25 minutes (Depending on marinating duration).

Time-Saving Tips:

  • Skip Marinating (If Short on Time): While marinating enhances flavor, you can skip the marinating step and cook the steak immediately after applying the rub if you are pressed for time. The steak will still be delicious, just slightly less deeply flavored.
  • Prep Rub Ahead: You can mix the coffee and brown sugar rub ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This is helpful if you are meal prepping or want to streamline dinner preparation.
  • Efficient Cooking Methods: Searing in a skillet or grilling are both quick cooking methods for skirt steak, making it a fast option for dinner once the rub is applied.
  • Multi-task: While the steak is cooking, you can prepare side dishes, salads, or other components of your meal to maximize efficiency.

With its minimal active prep time and quick cooking methods, Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is a delicious and efficient meal option for busy individuals and families.

How to Serve: Compliments to Your Coffee-Crusted Steak Sensation

Your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is a flavor sensation on its own, but the right serving suggestions can elevate it to a truly memorable meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve and complement your coffee-crusted steak:

Classic Side Dishes:

  • Mashed Potatoes (Garlic or Herb Infused): Creamy mashed potatoes, especially with garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme infused in them, are a comforting and classic side that complements steak beautifully.
  • Roasted Vegetables (Asparagus, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts): Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers provide a healthy and flavorful side dish. Their slightly caramelized sweetness pairs well with the savory steak.
  • Creamy Polenta: Smooth and cheesy polenta provides a delightful textural contrast to the sliced skirt steak and absorbs the delicious juices.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob, especially during summer months, is a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled steak.
  • Mac and Cheese (Elevated Version): An elevated mac and cheese, perhaps with truffle oil or gourmet cheeses, can be a decadent and satisfying side.

Fresh Salads:

  • Caesar Salad: A crisp and classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
  • Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A peppery arugula salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan cheese is a light and flavorful option.
  • Caprese Salad: A simple Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze is a fresh and vibrant side dish, especially during summer.
  • Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic wedge salad with iceberg lettuce, blue cheese dressing, bacon, and tomatoes offers a cool and crunchy side.

Sauces and Toppings:

  • Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant and herbaceous chimichurri sauce, made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, is a fantastic topping for Coffee-Crusted Skirt Steak, adding freshness and acidity.
  • Red Wine Reduction Sauce: A classic red wine reduction sauce adds elegance and depth of flavor, complementing the beef beautifully.
  • Mushroom Sauce (Creamy or Red Wine Based): A creamy mushroom sauce or a red wine-based mushroom sauce are both classic steakhouse accompaniments that pair well with the coffee crust.
  • Garlic Herb Butter: A simple compound butter made with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary melts beautifully over warm steak, adding richness and flavor.

Meal Combinations:

  • Steak Fajitas or Tacos: Slice the Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak into strips and use it for fajitas or tacos, served with tortillas, sautéed peppers and onions, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. The coffee crust adds a unique and delicious twist to fajitas and tacos.
  • Steak Salad: Slice the marinated and cooked skirt steak and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad vegetables and dressing for a hearty and flavorful steak salad.
  • Steak Sandwiches or Wraps: Slice the skirt steak thinly and use it to make delicious sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings, such as caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, provolone cheese, and a horseradish aioli.

Serving Tips:

  • Slice Thinly Against the Grain: Remember to slice the skirt steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Serve Warm: Steak is best served warm, immediately after resting and slicing.
  • Garnish: Garnish your plated steak with fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or parsley for visual appeal.
  • Offer Variety: When serving for a crowd, offer a variety of side dishes and sauces to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Expert Tips for Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak Mastery (5 Tips)

To consistently achieve Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak perfection and impress your family and friends, consider these five expert tips:

  1. Use Freshly Ground Coffee for Maximum Flavor: Freshly ground coffee is crucial for this recipe. Pre-ground coffee loses its aroma and flavor quickly. Grind your coffee beans just before making the rub for the most intense coffee flavor and aroma in your steak crust.
  2. Don’t Overcook Skirt Steak: Skirt steak is best cooked to medium-rare or medium for optimal tenderness. Overcooking skirt steak can make it tough and chewy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook it to your desired doneness and avoid overcooking.
  3. Sear at High Heat for a Good Crust: Searing skirt steak at high heat is essential for creating a flavorful and crispy coffee and brown sugar crust. Ensure your skillet or grill is preheated to medium-high to high heat before adding the steak. Searing quickly at high heat creates a Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and developing complex flavors in the crust.
  4. Rest the Steak Properly After Cooking: Resting the steak for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking is crucial for tender and juicy steak. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Tent the steak loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.
  5. Slice Against the Grain for Tenderness: Always slice skirt steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Identify the direction of the muscle fibers and slice perpendicular to them. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew and more tender.

Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of coffee flavor, consider using coffee oil or infusing your olive oil with coffee beans before searing the steak. Coffee oil or coffee-infused oil will enhance the coffee notes and complement the coffee crust beautifully.

By incorporating these expert tips into your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak routine, you’ll consistently achieve incredibly flavorful, tender, and restaurant-worthy steaks that will be the highlight of any meal!

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak Queries Answered (FAQ)

Do you have lingering questions about making Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak or need some troubleshooting advice? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you confidently master this delicious dish:

Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak besides skirt steak?

A: While skirt steak is ideal for this recipe due to its flavor and texture, you can use other cuts of beef with some adjustments:

  • Flank Steak: Flank steak is a very similar cut to skirt steak and can be used as a direct substitute. Cooking times and techniques will be similar.
  • Hanger Steak (Onglet): Hanger steak is another flavorful and relatively thin cut that works well with this coffee crust. Cooking times will be similar to skirt steak.
  • Flat Iron Steak: Flat iron steak is a more tender and thicker cut. You can use it, but you may need to adjust searing times and cooking method to ensure it is cooked to your desired doneness without burning the crust.
  • Ribeye or New York Strip (Less Recommended): While you can use more premium cuts like ribeye or New York strip, they are less ideal for this recipe. These cuts are already tender and flavorful and may not benefit as much from the coffee crust, and the strong coffee flavor might overpower their inherent richness.

Skirt steak, flank steak, and hanger steak are the best choices for this recipe due to their texture, flavor, and ability to absorb the coffee rub beautifully.

Q2: Can I make the coffee and brown sugar rub ahead of time and store it?

A: Yes, you can definitely make the coffee and brown sugar rub ahead of time! In fact, it’s a great time-saving tip. The rub can be prepared and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This is perfect for meal prepping or getting ahead on dinner preparations. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.

Q3: What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I use regular paprika?

A: While smoked paprika is recommended for its smoky depth, you can substitute regular paprika if needed. However, the smoky element will be missing. If you want to add a smoky note, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the rub or to the steak while cooking. Sweet paprika is a closer substitute in terms of flavor profile than hot paprika.

Q4: Can I grill or pan-sear frozen skirt steak after applying the rub?

A: It is generally not recommended to grill or pan-sear steak directly from frozen, even after applying the rub. For best results, always thaw your skirt steak completely before applying the rub and cooking. Cooking frozen steak can result in uneven cooking, with the outside becoming overcooked and the inside remaining raw or undercooked. Thawing ensures that the steak cooks evenly and allows the rub to adhere and penetrate effectively.

Q5: What are some good side dishes to serve with Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak besides potatoes and vegetables?

A: While potatoes and vegetables are excellent side dishes for Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak, there are many other delicious options to create a complete and satisfying meal. Consider these alternatives:

  • Grain-Based Sides: Quinoa, couscous, rice pilaf, or orzo pasta salad are all excellent grain-based sides that pair well with steak.
  • Legume-Based Sides: Black beans and rice, or a hearty lentil salad can provide a satisfying and protein-rich side dish.
  • Cornbread or Biscuits: Sweet cornbread or savory biscuits can be delicious Southern-inspired sides.
  • Pasta Salads: A cold pasta salad with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or a creamy dressing can be a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment, especially during warmer months.
  • Fruit Salad or Salsa: A fresh fruit salad or a mango salsa can provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory steak.

Choose side dishes that complement the robust flavors of the Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak and create a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!

We hope these FAQs have answered your questions and inspired you to create your own batch of delicious Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak! Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak recipe


  • Author: Caroline

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 pounds Skirt Steak, trimmed
  • ¼ cup Freshly Ground Coffee, medium to dark roast, espresso grind preferred
  • ¼ cup Packed Brown Sugar, light or dark
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
  • 12 tablespoons Olive Oil or High-Heat Cooking Oil, for searing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee and Brown Sugar Crust Rub: In a medium bowl, combine the freshly ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and well combined. Tip: Whisking ensures that the spices are evenly mixed and will create a consistent crust on the steak.
  2. Pat Skirt Steak Dry: Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels. This is important for the crust to adhere properly and for achieving a good sear. Tip: Patting the steak dry removes excess moisture, allowing the rub to stick better and promoting browning.
  3. Generously Rub the Skirt Steak: Generously rub the coffee and brown sugar crust mixture all over both sides of the skirt steak, pressing it firmly to ensure it adheres well. Make sure to coat every surface of the steak evenly with the rub. Tip: Don’t be shy with the rub! A generous coating is key to developing a flavorful and robust crust.
  4. Marinate (Optional, Recommended for Deeper Flavor): For a deeper flavor infusion, you can let the rubbed skirt steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Marinating allows the flavors of the coffee and spices to penetrate the meat and tenderize it slightly. If marinating for longer than 30 minutes, cover the steak and refrigerate. If short on time, you can skip the marinating step and cook the steak immediately after applying the rub, it will still be delicious. Tip: Marinating enhances flavor but is optional if you’re in a hurry.
  5. Bring Steak to Room Temperature (Before Cooking): If you marinated the steak, remove it from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking and let it come to room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Tip: Bringing steak to room temperature before cooking promotes more even cooking and prevents a cold center.
  6. Heat Oil in Skillet or Prepare Grill: Heat olive oil (or high-heat cooking oil) in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high to high heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot. Alternatively, preheat your grill to medium-high to high heat. Tip: High heat is essential for searing skirt steak and creating a flavorful crust.
  7. Sear Skirt Steak: Carefully place the rubbed skirt steak in the hot skillet (or on the preheated grill). Sear for 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Searing time will depend on the thickness of your steak and the heat of your skillet or grill. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat. Tip: Searing quickly at high heat creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices.
  8. Use a Meat Thermometer (For Desired Doneness): For accurate doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Here are the target internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
    • Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
    • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
    • Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
    • Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
    • Well-Done: 145°F+ (63°C+)

    Skirt steak is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness. Overcooking can make it tough.

  9. Rest Before Slicing: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the skirt steak from the skillet or grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tip: Resting is crucial for tender and juicy steak. Don’t skip this step!
  10. Slice Against the Grain: Skirt steak has a distinct grain. To maximize tenderness, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew. Tip: Slicing against the grain is essential for tender skirt steak. Identify the grain direction and slice accordingly.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Your Coffee and Brown Sugar-Crusted Skirt Steak is now ready to be served! Refer to the “Serving Suggestions” section for delicious ideas on how to enjoy your culinary creation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 280-380
  • Sugar: 7-10 gram
  • Sodium: 400-600 mg
  • Fat: 15-25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 5-10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 8-12 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 gram
  • Protein: 30-40 grams
  • Cholesterol: 80-100 mg