Tender beef steaks meet sweet-tangy apricot sauce in this elegant yet easy main course. Fresh Pittman & Davis apricots create a luscious fruit marinade and pan sauce that transforms a simple steak dinner into something special. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Apricot Marinade & Sauce:
- 6-8 ripe Pittman & Davis apricots, halved and pitted
- ⅓ cup apricot nectar (or orange juice)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Steaks:
- 4 beef sirloin or tenderloin steaks (6-8 oz each, about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Make the marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine 4 halved apricots, apricot nectar, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the steaks: Place steaks in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the apricot marinade over the steaks, turning to coat. Reserve the other half of the marinade for the sauce. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours (longer is better for deeper flavor).
- Prep remaining apricots: Slice the remaining 2-4 apricot halves into wedges. Set aside.
- Cook the steaks: Remove steaks from marinade and pat dry with paper towels (discard used marinade). Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add steaks and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Transfer steaks to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Pour in the reserved marinade and add the fresh apricot wedges. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly and apricots are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Place steaks on serving plates and spoon the warm apricot sauce over top. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
Why fresh apricots? Pittman & Davis apricots bring natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that elevates this dish beyond what canned or dried fruit can achieve. Their honey-like taste pairs beautifully with savory beef.
Don’t skip the marinade: Even 30 minutes makes a difference. The fruit enzymes help tenderize the meat while adding incredible flavor.
Perfect doneness: Use a meat thermometer for best results. 130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium. Remember, steak continues cooking as it rests.
Ready to cook? Shop Pittman & Davis Apricots
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