Step 1: Whisk the Liquid Ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard (if using). Whisk until everything is well blended.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Aromatics. Stir in the minced garlic, brown sugar or honey, black pepper, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the herbs are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Steak to the Marinade. Place your steak in a large zip-top bag or a shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Let It Soak. Transfer the steak to the refrigerator and marinate for at least 1 hour. For best results, let it sit for 4 to 8 hours. This gives the flavors time to soak into the meat and helps tenderize tougher cuts.
Step 5: Bring to Room Temperature. Before cooking, remove the steak from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly. Discard any leftover marinade — it’s not safe to reuse without boiling.
Step 6: Cook to Your Liking. Grill, pan-sear, or broil your steak depending on what you prefer. Cook times will vary based on the cut and thickness. For example, cook a 1-inch thick medium-rare steak for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.
Step 7: Rest Before Slicing. Once cooked, let your steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite tender and juicy.