Sauces · American cuisine

Fred Steak Marinade

marinadesteakbeefbarbecue
9 ingredients Cuisine: American Page updated October 2026

Fred Steak Marinade is an American imitation of the nearly black steaks sold at Schaub's Meat, Fish and Poultry Market in Palo Alto, California. The original recipe is a secret, so this version builds the effect from brewed coffee, molasses, tamari and balsamic vinegar. Together they give the meat a dark coat that looks burnt even when raw and forms a crust as it cooks.

Instructions

Brew the coffee and measure out the red wine, olive oil, molasses, balsamic vinegar, tamari and Worcestershire sauce.

Peel the garlic cloves and have the chili powder measured and ready.

Combine all of the ingredients in a single bowl or container large enough to hold the meat.

Stir until the molasses and chili powder are evenly mixed into the liquid, which should look very dark.

Use the mixture to marinate your meat, making sure the meat is covered by the liquid.

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