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Tenderizing Techniques: Master the Art of Perfectly Tender Meat Every Time


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 140 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

This marinated beef recipe features buttermilk or yogurt for enhanced tenderness and flavor. Ideal for grilling or pan-searing, it transforms your beef into a juicy, savory dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds of beef (flank steak, sirloin, or any cut of your choice)
  • 1 cup of buttermilk or yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for cooking)
  • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme, optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk (or yogurt), salt, sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as desired.
  3. Place the beef in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring full coverage. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  5. Remove the beef from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, ensure it’s clean and lightly oiled. If using a skillet, add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
  7. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard the marinade.
  8. Place the beef on the hot grill or skillet. Cook flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time for sirloin as needed. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (medium-rare is around 130°F/54°C).
  9. Once cooked, remove the beef from heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  10. Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
  11. Arrange on a serving platter, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
  12. Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad, or use in sandwiches, tacos, or stir-fries.

Notes

  • For additional tenderness, consider mechanical tenderizing with a meat mallet or using salt brining.
  • Explore other acidic marinades like vinegar or citrus juice for variety.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes