Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak: Your Ultimate Sweet & Spicy Steak Experience
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey! Our Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak is poised to become your new favorite dinner. This remarkable recipe features a homemade bourbon sugar infused with a vibrant spicy rub, creating an irresistible crust that locks in the juices of your strip steak. The exquisite balance of sweet heat and perfectly tender, savory meat will elevate your steak game from ordinary to extraordinary, promising a dining experience that’s both bold and deeply satisfying.
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The Genesis of a Steak Obsession: Discovering the Perfect Strip Steak
Just a few months ago, I had the pleasure of attending an incredible event co-hosted by Sprouts and the Colorado Beef Council. Little did I know, this event would forever change my perception of what a truly great steak could be. In fact, it was here that I cooked what I can confidently call the absolute *best* steak of my life. This is a significant statement, especially considering the undefeated reign of my perfect ribeye steak recipe, which has held the top spot in my culinary repertoire for years.
What made this experience so groundbreaking? It was the very first time I had ever attempted to cook a strip steak. Yes, I know – for a food blogger, it might seem scandalous to admit to sticking to my comfort zone with cuts of meat! But venturing into new territory can often lead to the most delightful discoveries, and this was certainly one of them.
Working alongside fellow bloggers in a dynamic, creative kitchen environment at the Colorado Beef Council, I whipped up a quick steak rub using an assortment of available spices. Among these ingredients was a truly unique, bourbon sugar-based blend. Inspired, I decided to amplify its existing flavors by cranking up the spice level, hoping to create something truly memorable. The outcome was nothing short of *insane*. The steak boasted an incredible richness, a captivating dance of sweet and spicy notes, and a flawlessly caramelized crust that sealed in every drop of juice, rendering the meat unbelievably tender and flavorful.
Recreating Perfection: Crafting the Ultimate Homemade Bourbon Sugar Rub
From that moment on, I became obsessed with recreating that magical spice mix from scratch. It’s been a labor of love, countless experiments, and meticulous adjustments, but I am thrilled to announce that the quest is finally over. The result is this carefully perfected homemade rub that promises to deliver the same sensational experience right in your kitchen.
The foundation of this extraordinary rub begins with making your very own homemade bourbon sugar. Trust me, this is not just an ingredient; it’s a delightful pantry staple to have on hand! Infusing sugar with quality bourbon and a split vanilla bean creates a fragrant, subtly boozy sweetener that adds incredible depth. Once this aromatic sugar is ready, we blend it with a carefully selected array of rich, spicy seasonings. Each teaspoon of this robust mix promises an intricate fusion of sweet warmth, savory spice, and a hint of smoky sophistication, ensuring every bite of your steak is bursting with flavor.
Once your exquisite rub is prepared, it’s time to generously coat your gorgeous strip steak. The next crucial step involves cooking it to perfection in your trusty cast iron skillet. The high, even heat of cast iron is ideal for achieving that coveted, flavorful crust that makes this steak so special, while keeping the interior unbelievably juicy and tender. This cooking method creates a delightful textural contrast that elevates the entire dish.
An Unforgettable Flavor Symphony: Sweet, Spicy, and Simply Irresistible
The result of this careful preparation and precise cooking? A symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your senses. You’ll be treated to a savory, spicy, and distinctly sweet steak that is so succulent and tender, it practically melts in your mouth. Seriously, the moment you take that first bite, you won’t want to stop. The complex layers of flavor – the smoky paprika, the subtle kick of cayenne, the aromatic garlic, all balanced by the unique sweetness of the bourbon sugar – create an addictive profile that will have you craving this steak again and again.
To truly let this magnificent strip steak shine, serve it alongside simple yet complementary sides. Think thick-cut steak fries for a satisfying crunch, and perfectly roasted asparagus for a touch of fresh, vibrant green. These straightforward accompaniments ensure that the steak remains the undeniable star of the meal, allowing its rich flavors to take center stage. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a culinary triumph that’s guaranteed to impress. I can personally vouch for its success – it’s a date night W-I-N, every single time!
Whether you’re looking to impress guests, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself to a gourmet experience at home, this Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak recipe is your go-to. It’s a testament to how a unique rub and proper cooking can transform a simple cut of meat into a show-stopping dish. Get ready to enjoy one of the most flavorful and juicy steaks you’ve ever tasted!
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Essential Tools for This Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Here are some indispensable tools:
- Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet: This heavy-duty cast iron skillet is ideal for developing that beautiful, crispy crust on your steak while ensuring even cooking.
- OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs: Essential for safely flipping your steak without piercing it, which helps retain precious juices.
- Ball Pint Jar, Regular Mouth, Set of 2: Perfect for storing any leftover Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rub, keeping it fresh and ready for your next steak night.
Don’t forget to pin this Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak recipe for future reference!
Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp bourbon
- 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise
- 1/2 cup bourbon sugar
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 2 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 3/4 to 1 lb strip steaks
- 2-3 Tbsp Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rub
- 1 tsp canola oil
Instructions
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To create the bourbon sugar, combine granulated sugar, bourbon, and the split vanilla bean in a mason jar. Seal the jar and shake it vigorously to ensure all the sugar is thoroughly coated. Occasionally remove the lid to stir, guaranteeing uniform infusion. Let it sit sealed for a minimum of 24 hours to develop rich flavor.
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Before using your homemade bourbon sugar, remember to remove the vanilla bean.
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For the spicy bourbon sugar rub, in a small bowl, combine the prepared bourbon sugar with salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Whisk all ingredients together until well blended.
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Remove your strip steaks from their packaging and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Generously coat both sides of each steak with the spicy bourbon sugar rub, pressing gently to adhere.
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Heat canola oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add both steaks to the hot skillet. Sear on all sides until a beautiful brown crust forms, typically 1-2 minutes per side.
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Continue cooking until your desired internal temperature is reached. For a perfect medium-rare, this usually takes approximately 5-6 minutes after searing. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
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Once cooked, remove the steaks from the cast iron skillet. Allow them to rest on a cutting board for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial step ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
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Serve your magnificent steak with complementing sides such as roasted asparagus and crispy steak fries for a complete and satisfying meal.