Balsamic and Wine Glazed Steak plus the Best Green Beans Ever!

Balsamic and Wine Glazed Steak

On my continual quest to incorporate mushrooms into my cooking, I stumbled upon this recipe.  I mean steak, balsamic vinegar, and wine – how can this be wrong?

Ingredients:

• 2 Teaspoons Cooking Oil
• 1 Pound boneless Beef Top Loin or Top Sirloin Steak, cut into ½ - ¾ inch thick strips
• 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/8 Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
• ¾ Cup dry Red Wine
• 2 Cups sliced, fresh Mushrooms
• 3 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 4 Teaspoons Honey
• 2 Tablespoons Butter

Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Preparation:

            In a large skillet, heat Oil over medium-high heat.  Add the Steak strips and reduce the heat until medium.  Cook for 10-13 minutes, or until the Steak reaches desired done-ness, turning meat occasionally.  Once cooked, transfer the Steak to a platter and keep warm.

            Next add the Garlic and Red Pepper to the skillet and cook for 10 seconds and remove skillet from heat.

            Carefully add the Red Wine, return skillet to the heat and boil for 5 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated.  Now add the Mushrooms, Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Honey and return mixture to a simmer.  Cook for 4 minutes or until the Mushrooms are tender.  Lastly stir the Butter into the skillet until melted.  Spoon the Sauce over the Steak.  Oh-so-yummy – this dish is hearty with a slight tanginess that is simple, elegant and delicious to boot!

Best Green Beans Ever

So this recipe is courtesy of Aquaman’s mother and I could not be more thankful!  I request it at every holiday and could eat it everyday without fail.  Try it and see if you don’t agree…

Ingredients:

1 Pound Green Beans, ends snapped off, washed and drained

1 Onion, chopped

3 ½ Tablespoons Bacon Pieces

1-2 Tablespoons Liquid Smoke – mesquite variety

Preparation:

            First, bring a large pot of salted water to boil.  Add the Green Beans and boil until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

            Drain the Beans and return to the same pot.  Toss in the Onion, Bacon and Liquid Smoke.  Stir to combine and this side is ready to serve. 

I love the smoky flavor and crunchiness of the Onion.  This dish is almost too good to be true.