Honey-Bourbon Brine for Steaks Recipe - Food.com (2024)

• 2 ¹⁄₂ cups water (room temperature)
• ¹⁄₃ cup bourbon whiskey
• ¹⁄₃ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons kosher salt (use kosher salt only!)
• 1 tablespoon chopped lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (more to season the steaks before cooking)
• 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh garlic (can use more)
• 6 boneless beef steaks (about 1-inch thick)

directions

• In a bowl combine water with 1/3 cup bourbon, 1/3 cup honey, kosher salt, lemon zest and black pepper; stir to completely dissolve the salt, then add in the garlic.
• Place the steaks in a large resealable plastic bag and set in a shallow dish.
• Pour the brine over the steaks then seal the bag.
• Toss bag to coat the steaks in the brine.
• Place in refrigerator for 6-8 hours (no more than 8 hours!) tossing the bag occasionally making certain that the meat is covered with the brine.
• About 2 hours before cooking the steaks, remove steaks and discard the marinade.
• Rinse the meat VERY well under cold water and place on a plate/s.
• Let the beef sit our on the counter for about 2 hours or until almost room temperature (THIS IS IMPORTANT! the steaks must come down to room temperature before cooking!).
• Season the steaks with only black pepper (salt the steaks after cooking).
• Place the steaks on the grill and grill to desired doneness (or steaks can be oven-broiled).