Honey-Bourbon Brine For Steaks - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups water (room temperature)
1/3 cup bourbon whiskey
1/3 cup honey
3 tablespoons kosher salt (use kosher salt only!)
1 tablespoon chopped lemon zest
1 teaspoon black pepper (more to season the steaks before cooking)
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh garlic (can use more)
6 boneless beef steaks (about 1-inch thick)

Preparation

In a bowl combine water with 1/3 cup bourbon, 1/3 cup honey, kosher salt, lemon zest and black pepper; stir to completely dissolve the salt, then add in the garlic.
Place the steaks in a large resealable plastic bag and set in a shallow dish.
Pour the brine over the steaks then seal the bag.
Toss bag to coat the steaks in the brine.
Place in refrigerator for 6-8 hours (no more than 8 hours!) tossing the bag occasionally making certain that the meat is covered with the brine.
About 2 hours before cooking the steaks, remove steaks and discard the marinade.
Rinse the meat VERY well under cold water and place on a plate/s.
Let the beef sit our on the counter for about 2 hours or until almost room temperature (THIS IS IMPORTANT! the steaks must come down to room temperature before cooking!).
Season the steaks with only black pepper (salt the steaks after cooking).
Place the steaks on the grill and grill to desired doneness (or steaks can be oven-broiled).