Grilled Balsamic Beef Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Grilled Beef Skewers with Balsamic Marinade

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup aged balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
• 2 pounds beef top sirloin
• 4 skewers

Directions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, green onion, black pepper, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and honey until well combined. Add the fresh rosemary leaves and set the mixture aside.
2. Cut the beef into cubes that are about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in size. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. If possible, toss the beef in the marinade every few hours to ensure even flavor distribution.
3. When ready to grill, remove the beef from the marinade. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers, pat them dry with paper towels, and save any excess marinade for basting during grilling.
4. Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness. While grilling, occasionally baste the beef with the saved marinade.
5. Once the beef is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
6. Meanwhile, pour the remaining marinade into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, strain it to remove any solid pieces. Serve this reduced marinade as a sauce alongside the skewers.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 727
• Total Fat: 46g (59% of Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 15g (73% of Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 209mg (70% of Daily Value)
• Sodium: 809mg (35% of Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 12g (4% of Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% of Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 62g (124% of Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (5% of Daily Value)
• Calcium: 85mg (7% of Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (27% of Daily Value)
• Potassium: 907mg (19% of Daily Value)

History and Origin of Grilled Balsamic Beef

Grilled Balsamic Beef, as a dish, finds its roots in the fusion of European culinary traditions with modern American grilling culture. Balsamic vinegar, originally from Modena, Italy, has been prized for centuries for its rich, complex flavor profile. The idea of pairing it with beef for grilling emerged in the late 20th century when American chefs began experimenting with Mediterranean ingredients in backyard barbecue recipes. By marinating the beef in aged balsamic vinegar, herbs, and spices, the dish combines tender meat with a subtly sweet and tangy glaze, creating a harmony of flavors that balances the robust taste of grilled beef.

Regional Variations

While Grilled Balsamic Beef is most popular in the United States, particularly in regions where grilling is a staple of summer cuisine, variations exist in different areas. In coastal states, chefs often add local citrus or fresh herbs such as thyme and oregano to the marinade for a brighter, fresher flavor. In contrast, inland regions may emphasize smokier, heavier marinades with hints of honey and garlic. Despite these differences, the core conceptmarinating beef in a balsamic-based mixture and grilling it to perfectionremains consistent.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional beef kabobs, which often use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon, and garlic, Grilled Balsamic Beef stands out due to its use of aged balsamic vinegar, which adds a complex sweetness and acidity. The marinade not only flavors the beef but also tenderizes it, giving it a texture that is distinct from other grilled beef dishes such as teriyaki skewers or chimichurri beef. The combination of honey, cayenne, and fresh rosemary adds depth that makes this recipe uniquely aromatic and flavorful.

Typical Serving Occasions

Grilled Balsamic Beef is versatile and can be served at casual family barbecues, dinner parties, or gourmet outdoor events. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Many restaurants offering modern American cuisine or Mediterranean-inspired menus feature this dish as a seasonal specialty, especially during summer months when outdoor grilling is most popular.

Interesting Facts

• Balsamic vinegar used in the marinade can improve meat tenderness due to its natural acidity.
• The dish can be prepared using more economical cuts of beef because the marinade helps break down tougher fibers.
• Overnight marination is key to achieving the optimal balance of flavor and texture.
• Some chefs recommend using skewers soaked in water to prevent burning during high-heat grilling.
• Grilled Balsamic Beef has become a favorite in culinary competitions for its balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

FAQ about Grilled Balsamic Beef Recipe

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