Are you ready to take your steak nights to the next level? Forget bland, boring grills – this Trader Joe's Coffee Rub recipe is your secret weapon for unbelievably flavorful, juicy steaks. It's quick, easy, and uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This homemade cooking masterpiece is a delicious dish, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. Let's dive into this amazing recipe that's perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Trader Joe's Dark Roast Ground Coffee (or your favorite dark roast)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Combine the magic: In a small bowl, whisk together the ground coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure everything is well mixed for even flavor distribution.
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Prepare your steak: Pat your steak(s) dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear! Season generously on both sides with the coffee rub, pressing gently to ensure it adheres. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the more flavorful your steak will be.
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Sizzle time: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. For best results, use a cast iron skillet. Once hot, add the steak and cook to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 135-140°F
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F
- Well-Done: 145°F and above
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Steak Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If grilling multiple steaks, cook them in batches to ensure proper browning and even cooking.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the steak, the better the result!
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you're not a fan of spice, leave it out entirely.
- Get creative with your cuts: This rub works beautifully on ribeye, New York strip, sirloin, or even flank steak.
Variations:
- Add some herbs: Freshly cracked black pepper, rosemary, or thyme would complement the coffee rub beautifully.
- Make it smoky: Try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an even smokier flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chipotle powder for an extra smoky kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size and cut of steak used. This is an estimate for a 4-ounce serving:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This Trader Joe's Coffee Rub recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's an easy recipe, perfect for beginner cooks and a delicious upgrade for experienced ones. Enjoy!