Rubbing steak with instant coffee 30 minutes before cooking can make it tender and 'extra moist', according to cooking experts. The tannins in coffee help break down the meat's proteins, resulting in a softer texture and enhanced flavour.
Why Coffee Works as a Tenderiser
Coffee is rich in tannins, natural compounds that break down the proteins in meat to give it a more tender texture. When applied to a steak and left to soak for 30 minutes, the tannins help break through the meat's tough connective tissues, making it softer so it almost melts in your mouth.
Espresso Works said in its online advice: "The acidity in coffee does not overwhelm or overpower the taste of steak. Quite the contrary — coffee really brings out the flavour of the steak. And in addition to being used as a seasoning for steak, coffee can serve as a steak tenderiser and make the meat extra-moist."
How to Apply the Coffee Rub
Recipe developer Susie Bulloch at Hey Grill, Hey explained: "Coffee rub isn't good on steak, it's amazing, and for a couple different reasons. First, the acidity of the coffee is going to help tenderise your steak throughout the cooking process. And it's going to do so without overpowering the natural, beefy flavour. This is going to ensure you have a moist and tender inside with every bite."
Bulloch added: "Second, when searing your steaks at the end of this process, the coffee rub is going to caramelise and give you a nice, crusty bark on the outside. Using instant coffee rather than coffee grinds will help you avoid an overly bitter flavour when cooking this hot. And because the rub has no sugar, you don't have to worry about over-caramelisation."
Tips for the Best Results
To create the rub, use at least two tablespoons of instant coffee and mix it with any extra seasonings of your choice, such as salt, garlic powder, pepper, paprika, or chilli powder. Massage the rub onto each side of the steak and let it rest at room temperature for around 30 minutes, or store in the fridge for up to eight hours, bringing it back to room temperature before cooking.
For maximum flavour and tenderness, experts recommend leaving the coffee rub on overnight for a full 24 hours before cooking. A darker roast will result in a bolder flavour.
