Kona crusted steak is a culinary masterpiece that combines the bold, rich flavors of Kona coffee with savory spices, creating a delicious and aromatic crust for your steak. This unique dish is a perfect choice for special occasions or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a gourmet experience, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression. If you’re in the mood for more savory meals, you can check out our Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie Recipe for another delightful dish to try.
What is kona crusted Steak?
Kona crusted steak refers to a steak that is coated with a flavorful rub made from ground Kona coffee, brown sugar, and a blend of spices. The Kona in the name comes from the use of Kona coffee, a premium coffee known for its smooth and bold flavor. This coffee rub creates a mouthwatering crust on the steak when cooked, enhancing the natural beef flavor and making each bite unforgettable.
It’s a technique that works wonderfully with various cuts of beef, such as the popular Kona crusted dry-aged bone-in NY strip. If you’re craving more delicious and unique steak recipes, you might enjoy our Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe, perfect for those who love hearty meals.
Ingredients for Kona Crusted Steak Recipe
To make a delicious kona crusted steak, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons ground Kona coffee
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 boneless sirloin steaks
- Olive oil (for searing)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment and Tools Required
- Cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2 people
How to Make Capital Grille Kona Crusted Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground Kona coffee, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to create a uniform rub.

Step 2: Season the Steak: Pat the sirloin steaks dry with paper towels. Rub a thin layer of olive oil on both sides of the steaks, then generously apply the coffee rub, pressing it into the meat.

Step 3: Cook the Steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on your preference.

Step 4: Make the Shallot Butter: While the steak is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Rest and Serve: Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Serve the kona crusted steak topped with the caramelized shallot butter for an extra layer of flavor.

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Serving Ideas for kona Beef Steak Recipe
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are perfect side dishes to pair with Kona crusted steak. Their natural sweetness and crispy texture contrast beautifully with the savory coffee rub, creating a balanced meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with the Kona-crusted steak. The potatoes’ creaminess complements the steak’s bold flavors, creating a rich and indulgent experience.
- Fresh Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A fresh green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens can offer a light, crisp contrast to the richness of the kona beef steak. Add a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a flavor that complements the savory crust.
- Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that works beautifully with the earthy Kona coffee crust. The slight char from grilling enhances the savory steak, and its fresh, vibrant flavor makes it a perfect side dish.
- Red Wine Pairing: To elevate your Kona Coffee Crusted Steak, serve it with a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The wine’s tannins cut through the steak’s richness, while its deep, fruity notes enhance the coffee-based crust for a truly gourmet experience.
Tips for Kona Coffee Crusted Steak Recipe
- Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the spice levels to customize your Kona coffee rub. Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to introduce heat, or use smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor. Personalizing the rub ensures it fits your taste preferences perfectly.
- Grill for Extra Flavor: For a smoky, charred finish, try grilling the Kona crusted steak instead of pan-searing it. The grill’s direct heat will infuse the steak with a deeper smokiness that complements the coffee crust, making it even more flavorful.
- Rest Your Steak after Cooking: Let your Kona Coffee Crusted Steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This step helps the juices redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy, making it even more delicious.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For the perfect sear and crust, use a cast iron skillet. Its even heat distribution helps create a beautifully browned coffee crust while locking in all the flavors. It’s the key to achieving that perfect crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy.
- Finish with Shallot Butter: For an extra touch of flavor, top your Kona-crusted steak with rich shallot butter. The sweetness of the caramelized shallots pairs perfectly with the savory coffee rub, giving the steak a luxurious, gourmet finish. You can make the butter in advance to save time when cooking.
FAQs about Kona Crusted Steak Recipe
What is Kona Crusted Steak?
Kona crusted steak refers to a steak coated with a crust made from ground Kona coffee beans, sugar, and spices. This unique and flavorful crust complements the natural taste of the beef.
What does Kona crusted mean?
Kona Coffee Crusted Steak are seasoned with a blend of Kona coffee beans and various spices, giving them a distinctive, aromatic, and savory crust when cooked.
What is the best cut of steak for Kona crusting?
The best steak cuts for Kona crusting are typically well-marbled cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, andkona crusted dry aged bone in ny strip. These cuts provide a rich flavor that pairs well with the coffee-based crust.
Can I use regular coffee for Kona crusted steak?
While you can substitute regular coffee, Kona coffee is preferred because of its distinct smooth, chocolatey flavour that complements the beef in a way regular coffee can’t replicate.
How do you make the Kona crust for steak?
The Kona crust is made by mixing ground Kona coffee with other seasonings such as brown sugar, salt, pepper, and optional chilli powder. This mixture is then rubbed onto the steak before cooking.
Is Kona Crusted Steak spicy?
The Kona crust itself is not overly spicy. However, if chilli powder is added to the seasoning mix, it can introduce a mild heat, which balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and the richness of the steak.
Can I cook Kona Coffee Crusted Steak in the oven?
Yes, after searing the steak on both sides in a skillet, you can finish cooking the Kona Crusted Steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes until it reaches your desired doneness.
Is Kona Crusted Steak a good choice for special occasions?
Absolutely! Kona Crusted Steak is a gourmet dish perfect for special occasions due to its unique flavours and sophisticated preparation. It offers an elevated steak experience that’s sure to impress.
How does Kona crust affect the flavour of the steak?
The Kona crust adds a smoky, slightly sweet, and rich coffee flavour to the steak, enhancing the savoury taste of the beef and creating an excellent contrast between the crust and the tender meat inside.
Can I make Kona Crusted Steak without using Kona beef?
Yes, you don’t need to use Kona beef specifically. You can use any high-quality steak, such as ribeye, NY strip, or filet mignon, to prepare kona beef Steak. The key is the Kona coffee crust, which adds a distinct flavour.
Final Thoughts on Kona Coffee Crusted Steak Recipe
Kona Coffee Crusted Steak is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors to your table. With its unique coffee rub and delicious shallot butter, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a weekend meal, this kona beef steak will elevate your dining experience. Happy cooking!
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