Steak tips are a quintessential dish in New England, celebrated in many local pubs, bars, and restaurants. Though this classic comfort food is a favorite in the region, it’s not always easy to find outside New England. Typically grilled or seared, steak tips are served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of crisp greens or fresh salad. The combination of juicy, tender meat and a savory marinade creates a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Growing up in Massachusetts, I had no idea that steak tips were considered a regional specialty, but I soon realized that this dish is beloved by locals and hard to come by once you leave the area.
Despite the challenge of finding steak tips everywhere, I’ve crafted a recipe so that you can recreate this New England classic, no matter where you live. The great news is that the ingredients are simple, and I’ve provided tips on sourcing the right cuts of beef. Once you get your hands on the right steak, you’ll be able to experience this savory delight in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this steak tip recipe special is its juicy, tender texture and bold, sweet, and tangy flavors. The marinade, made with Coca-Cola, ketchup, vinegar, and a blend of spices, tenderizes the meat while doubling as a delicious sauce. This dish has a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes, with a flavorful sauce that’s a wonderful addition to the steak. Whether you’re a steak lover or just looking for a tasty dinner idea, these steak tips will deliver a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients Overview
The key to these flavorful steak tips is the marinade. The ingredients include simple pantry staples like ketchup, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. The addition of Coca-Cola may seem unusual, but it tenderizes the meat and contributes a unique sweetness to the dish. For the beef, I recommend using bavette steak or sirloin tips, which are ideal cuts that offer both tenderness and rich flavor. You can substitute a few ingredients if necessary, ensuring this recipe remains flexible and adaptable to what you have on hand.
How to Make the Recipe:
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the ketchup, red wine vinegar, olive oil, water, Coca-Cola, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Add the steak pieces to the marinade, tossing them to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated steak in an even layer, working in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Sear the steak on one side for 2-3 minutes, or until deeply browned and caramelized. Flip each piece and sear for another 2-3 minutes until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Step 5: Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 6: While the steak cooks, add the leftover marinade to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Step 7: Season the sauce with additional salt to taste, then lower the heat and keep the sauce warm until ready to serve.
Step 8: Serve the steak tips with the sauce on the side. Garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- To simplify prep, ask your butcher to pre-cut the meat into 2-inch cubes.
- Steak tips are best cooked to medium rare or medium. Avoid cooking them to rare, as they can turn chewy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- If you have two cast-iron skillets, you can speed up the searing process.
- When searing, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and to achieve a perfect sear.
Variations to Try
- Swap out Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce for a slightly different umami flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a touch more sweetness.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use tenderloin or flank steak as alternatives to bavette steak. These cuts may not have the same texture but will still yield delicious results.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store the cooked steak tips and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! The marinade can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Q4: Can I use a non-stick skillet instead of cast iron?
A4: While cast iron is ideal for getting a good sear, a heavy non-stick skillet can work in a pinch.
Q5: What sides should I serve with steak tips?
A5: Try pairing steak tips with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover steak tips and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the steak tips in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat until heated.
Conclusion
These steak tips are an unforgettable New England classic that will quickly become a favorite in your home. The rich, tangy marinade enhances the meat’s natural flavor, creating a tender, succulent bite every time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. I hope this recipe brings the taste of New England to your kitchen, no matter where you’re located.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, don’t forget to follow my Pinterest account, Ava Foodie, and share your results with me! Happy cooking!
