**Jalapeño Honey Tequila Steak**
This recipe combines smoky grilled steak with a bold marinade of tequila, jalapeños, lime, and honey for a perfect balance of heat, tang, and sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye or strip steaks (about 1–1.5 inches thick)
- 1/4 cup tequila (silver or reposado works best)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds in for more heat, out for mild)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. **Marinate the steak**
* In a bowl, whisk together tequila, honey, lime juice/zest, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
* Stir in the jalapeño slices.
* Place steaks in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, and refrigerate 2–4 hours (no longer than 6 to prevent the lime and tequila from breaking down the meat).
2. **Grill or pan-sear**
* Remove steaks from marinade and pat dry.
* Preheat grill or skillet to high heat.
* Cook steaks about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness. Brush lightly with leftover marinade during cooking (only during the first half so raw meat juices cook off).
3. **Rest & serve**
* Let steaks rest 5 minutes before slicing.
* Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra drizzle of honey if desired.
🔥 **Optional twist**: Caramelize extra jalapeño slices in honey and use as a spicy-sweet topping.
Would you like me to also give you a **side pairing idea** (like tequila-lime roasted potatoes or charred corn salad) to go with this steak?