Grilled Balsamic Beef Recipe

Grilled balsamic beef is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of balsamic vinegar with tender, juicy beef. The marinade, made with balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, infuses the beef with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for grilling. Whether you’re using steak, flank, or sirloin, this recipe is ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion when you want a hearty, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bold and Tangy Flavor: The balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with grilled beef.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish comes together easily and quickly.
• Perfect for Grilling: The marinade ensures that the beef stays tender and juicy, making it perfect for grilling.
• Versatile: This recipe works with various cuts of beef, such as flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye.

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Key Ingredients

• Beef: You can use any cut of beef you prefer, but flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are great options for grilling.
• Balsamic Vinegar: The key ingredient that gives the beef its tangy and sweet flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps to tenderize the beef and adds a rich, smooth texture to the marinade.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the beef and balsamic vinegar.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or oregano enhance the flavor of the marinade, giving the beef a fragrant, herbal note.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the beef and marinade.

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How to Make Grilled Balsamic Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar), 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

• Place your beef (about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of steak, flank steak, or sirloin) in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the balsamic marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s fully coated.
• Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors. For the best results, marinate the beef overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Beef

• Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade. Place the beef on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium).

Step 5: Rest the Beef

• Once the beef is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

• Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

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Tips for the Best Grilled Balsamic Beef

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, let it marinate for several hours or overnight.
2. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook the beef to your desired doneness without overcooking. Overcooking can make the beef tough.
3. Let the Beef Rest: After grilling, let the beef rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano add a fragrant, herbal flavor to the marinade. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half.
5. Grill Vegetables Alongside: For a complete meal, grill some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus alongside the beef for a delicious and healthy side dish.

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Recipe Variations

• Balsamic Beef Skewers: Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and marinate as directed. Thread the beef onto skewers and grill for 3-4 minutes per side for a fun, bite-sized version of this recipe.
• Balsamic Glazed Beef: After grilling, brush the beef with a balsamic glaze made by reducing 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey over low heat until thick and syrupy.
• Spicy Balsamic Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Balsamic Beef Salad: Slice the grilled beef thinly and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a light, refreshing meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use balsamic glaze instead of balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can use balsamic glaze, but you may want to reduce or omit the honey or sugar in the marinade since the glaze is already sweet and thick.

2. How long should I marinate the beef?

For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marinating will give you the most tender and flavorful results.

3. What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Flank steak, sirloin, and ribeye are all excellent choices for grilling. You can also use tenderloin for a more luxurious cut.

4. Can I cook this beef indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the beef on a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover grilled beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, or enjoy it cold in a salad or sandwich

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