Whiskey-Cursed Ribeye with Blackened Maple Glaze

Step-by-step instructions

In a small bowl, combine whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to create a marinade.
Place the ribeye steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the steaks are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
In a small saucepan, mix the maple syrup, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Heat over low heat until the glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the steaks from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Brush each side lightly with olive oil and season with salt.
Grill the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
In the last minute of grilling, brush the steaks generously with the blackened maple glaze on both sides.
Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Present the whiskey-cursed ribeye steaks with any remaining glaze on the side. Enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

Now that you’ve beautifully grilled the ribeye, how should you serve it? Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness and place it on a cutting board or a platter. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

For side dishes, roasted vegetables, crispy potatoes, or a fresh garden salad will complement the rich flavors beautifully. You could even serve it with a good bottle of red wine to elevate the dining experience.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing leftovers can be as easy as keeping your culinary masterpiece! Allow the steak to cool before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. When reheating, bring the steak to room temperature first, then gently reheat on the grill or in a pan to retain its juiciness.

Helpful cooking tips

For an extra tender steak, try marinating for longer—up to 24 hours will intensify the flavors.
Ensure your grill is adequately heated before placing the steak on it; this will help achieve a nice sear, locking in the juices.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider using a charcoal grill instead of gas.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can tweak this recipe by swapping out the whiskey for bourbon for a sweeter, more robust flavor. You can also experiment with different types of maple syrup—try a darker grade for a deeper flavor profile. Another fun variation is to add some chopped chipotle peppers to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Common questions

How long should I marinate the steaks?

For optimal flavor, marinate the steaks for at least 1 hour, but overnight will yield even better results.

Can I substitute the whiskey?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use alcohol, apple cider or a mixture of apple juice with a splash of vinegar can offer a similar flavor profile.

What’s the best way to safely reheat the steak?

To maintain the tenderness of the steak, allow it to come to room temperature before gently reheating on the grill or in a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.