Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Sesame Oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Rice Vinegar (or Apple Cider Vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Honey (or Maple Syrup)
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon jarred minced garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Fresh Ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 2-4 Steaks (Sirloin, Ribeye, New York Strip are all good choices), about 1 inch thick
  • Olive Oil (for cooking)
  • Salt (for seasoning after cooking)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Place steaks in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideally 4 hours or overnight). This is a simple steak marinade recipe.
  3. Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly.
  4. Choose your preferred cooking method (grilling or pan-searing are common).
  5. Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill steaks for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on desired doneness.
  6. Pan-Searing: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot. Sear steaks for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on desired doneness.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure steaks are cooked to your desired internal temperature: 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+)
  8. Remove steaks from the grill or pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
  9. Slice the steak against the grain and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Serve immediately.