If you’re searching for a delectable dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, look no further than these mouthwatering Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers! Tender cubes of steak are marinated and glazed to perfection, offering a taste that’s both bold and enticing. Perfect for any barbecue or as the centerpiece for a weekend meal, these skewers are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The honey bourbon glaze strikes the perfect balance, creating a symphony of flavors with every bite.
- Impressive Presentation: These skewers are not only delicious but also make for a beautiful and elegant presentation on your table.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dining Option: Perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking, making them adaptable to any dining occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s robust flavors, from the tender steak cubes to the aromatic glaze that envelops them.
- Steak (1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye): The tender texture and rich flavor of these cuts are ideal for skewers.
- Olive Oil: Helps in evenly coating the steak with spices and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the steak’s natural flavors.
- Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky and aromatic layer without overpowering the other flavors.
- Honey and Bourbon: This duo creates a luscious glaze that coats the steak with warmth and sweetness.
- Soy Sauce and Ketchup: Brings umami and tang, creating depth in the glaze.
- Dijon Mustard and Brown Sugar: Provides a tangy-sweet flavor, elevating the glaze’s complexity.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
- Garlic and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Infuses the glaze with a subtle heat and aromatic depth.
Variations
Feel free to personalize the Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers to suit your taste or dietary preferences. The recipe is wonderfully adaptable, encouraging creativity in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
- Spicier Skewers: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the glaze for a fiery kick.
- Alternative Glaze: Try adding some orange zest for a zestful citrus note that brightens the glaze.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Dry meat sears better and builds more flavor. Toss the cubes in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Thread the seasoned steak onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.)
Step 2: Make the Honey Bourbon Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers and slightly thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If using a grill pan indoors, preheat it until very hot before cooking the skewers.
Step 4: Grill the Steak Skewers
Place the steak skewers directly on the grill grates. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally to get a nice sear on all sides. Use a meat thermometer if you want precise doneness — aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
During the last minute of cooking, brush the steak skewers generously with the honey bourbon glaze. Let the glaze caramelize slightly on the grill, flipping the skewers as needed for even coverage. Remove from the grill and brush with extra glaze if you like.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle the finished skewers with chopped parsley and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot, with any leftover glaze on the side for dipping. These skewers are great on their own or alongside your favorite BBQ sides!
Pro Tips for Making Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
- Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Choosing the Right Meat: Opt for a well-marbled cut like ribeye for the juiciest skewers.
- Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is properly preheated to achieve a beautiful sear on the steak.
- Resting the Skewers: Let them rest a few minutes off the grill before serving to retain juices.
How to Serve Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, finish your Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and sesame seeds. These garnishes add a pop of color and a delightful crunch!
Side Dishes
Pair these skewers with a fresh green salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp coleslaw to complement the rich flavors. Grilled corn on the cob or a tangy pasta salad would also make excellent accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a creative presentation, serve the skewers upright in a tall glass or on a platter lined with fresh herbs. This not only looks impressive but also makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently to maintain their juiciness and flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, place the skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the skewers on a grill or in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of meat for these skewers?
Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or even seafood like shrimp as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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What can I substitute for bourbon in the glaze?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or cider for a non-alcoholic option that still offers great flavor.
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Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning and breaking during cooking.
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Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be made a few days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before using to achieve the right consistency.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give these Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers a try and delight in the wonderful combination of flavors! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to deliver a delectable experience. Enjoy!
PrintHoney Bourbon Steak Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers are a perfect combination of tender sirloin cubes glazed with a sweet and savory bourbon honey sauce, grilled to perfection for a smoky, flavorful experience. Ideal for barbecues, outdoor gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver a juicy and flavorful bite every time.
Ingredients
For the Steak Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Honey Bourbon Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure better searing. Toss the cubes in a large bowl with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Thread the seasoned steak onto skewers, leaving some space between each piece. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Make the Honey Bourbon Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers and slightly thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grates or grill pan to prevent sticking. For indoor grilling, preheat the grill pan until very hot.
- Grill the Steak Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill grates. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally for a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
- Glaze and Finish: During the last minute, brush the skewers generously with the honey bourbon glaze. Let the glaze caramelize slightly, flipping the skewers for even coverage. Remove from grill and brush with extra glaze if desired.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds if using. Serve hot with leftover glaze on the side for dipping. These skewers pair well with your favorite BBQ sides.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during grilling.
- The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes for more or less heat according to your preference.
- If you prefer more caramelization, brush additional glaze during grilling.
- Ensure not to overcook the steak to maintain tenderness; medium-rare is recommended.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 4 oz of beef)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg